7 Product Packaging and Shipping TRENDS That Are Changing the Market
- 7 Product Packaging and Shipping TRENDS That Are Changing the Market
- When it comes to attracting and engaging consumers, the product packaging and shipping experience is an element that can make the difference.
- 1. Thinking inside and outside the box
- Online ordering has rapidly evolved the product packaging and shipping industry, while changing customer experiences and expectations around the world. Likewise, the direct selling industry has shifted to an online ordering experience, delivering orders directly to the customer's home. Product packaging and shipping have become integral pieces of the overall marketing strategy to surprise and delight customers and increase retention. Recent supply chain issues around the world
- have caused companies to reconsider their budgets and packaging strategies and evaluate emerging trends.
- 2. Custom packaging
- Add another layer to the positive customer experience, personalize the product and shipping packages will promote the brand and make the customer feel special. Trends include packages with unique messages, QR codes to verify contents, customer names and more. Custom packaging lends itself to innovative marketing approaches such as scavenger hunts that reward customers who find rare packages or labels. Coca-Cola's “Share a Coke” campaign included names on bottle labels
- and encouraged people to give a Coke to someone with the name highlighted on the label.
- 3. Inverted and gradient designs
- According to data research made by Ipsos, 72 percent of American consumers say their purchasing decision is influenced by packaging design. Minimalist designs have been a rising trend. The use of colored gradients on a light background is subtle and striking. Gradients add complexity without too much work. Color mists are another popular example of using gradients.
- “Many companies recognize how well strong colors, patterns and dramatic effects stand out. They also see how well this trend results in increased sales volume,” mentions an article from York Saw & Knife Company. “Bold colors like neon green and bright yellow quickly attract a person's attention. So do colors with shiny metallic sheens and reflective surfaces.”
- 4. Flexible packaging
- The days of choosing between three or four sizes of rigid cardboard boxes are long gone. Technological advances allow for flexible packaging material, which helps reduce storage space and save shipping costs. These include wrappers, bags, pouches and envelopes. Smithers Pira predicts the flexible packaging industry will reach $269 billion by 2024.
- Flexible packaging materials made of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate or polypropylene break down more easily and deteriorate faster than traditional packaging and packaging materials. Other advantages include easier storage, resealing, less material, lighter weight, friendly e-commerce, and the ability to ship individual products.
- 5. Minimalist packaging design
- In an era of information overload, people appreciate simplicity. Too much information on packaging can be ignored, while a minimalist approach can have a greater impact. Packaging that tells the customer what is in it for them is key. Focus on results and how you want the customer to feel about your product and your brand.
- Think of ways customers can use the packaging after opening it, such as including a coupon code for their next order or including pro tips for using the product.
- 6. Recyclable and sustainable packaging
- Online ordering has made recycled packaging a priority for people who experience deliveries almost daily. Many people avoid purchasing items that are not packaged in recycled materials. More than 1,000 companies and organizations (including Walmart and PepsiCo) are part of the global New Plastics Economy commitment, which aims to increase recycled packaging by 25% by 2025. The popularity of sustainable packaging made from paper or hemp has increased considerably.
- Adding messages on packages that indicate a commitment to sustainability is a great way to communicate your company's mission to your customers.
- 7. Unboxing videos and product reviews
- Unboxing videos have never been more popular on social media than today. According to Google, 90 percent of people say they discover new brands or products on YouTube. Everything from the initial experience to long-running product reviews is considered trustworthy and authentic. Some companies are practically begging influencers to review their products. Product design, feel, and packaging quality are some of the first aspects of a product to be closely examined and factored into the overall experience. The rise of virtual reality technologies could make this trend even
- more relevant in the future.
- September 27 2023|Emilia Piedra Donoso.