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Packaging Innovations You Need by Close the Loop

Why Innovative Packaging Matters

Innovative packaging ideas

Packaging has become an integral part of our modern lives. The 11th century saw the invention of the first known packaging solution. Egyptians wrapped their food in paper to keep it safe during handling and transportation and then sold it at flea markets. This resulted in a thriving industry. Fast forward to 2022, businesses have discovered a plethora of ways to maximise the potential of product packaging.

Marketing teams have figured out how to present products in the most effective way. Great packaging design has resulted in higher profits and more loyal customers. However, not all outcomes are positive. The problem of packaging waste has grown in tandem with the need to increase the bottom line. Plastic packaging has taken over landfills and bodies of water all over the world.

A balance needs to be struck between profitability and sustainability. Advancements in technology have allowed businesses to create great-looking packaging and help reduce waste at the same time. This needs to continue and become the standard if we want to save the environment.

In This Article:

What Constitutes Innovative Packaging?

Team Development

The term “innovative packaging” is thrown around a lot. But do most people really understand what it means? The development of something that solves a problem is one way to define innovation. The best ones even address a problem that people did not realise they had in the first place.

Many factors need to be considered in packaging innovation, such as:

  • Brand perception in the market
  • Change required due to low market share
  • Change required due to competitor threats
  • Technological advancements
  • Shift in consumer preferences

Although there are various levels of innovation, innovative packaging design must be a process-driven experience. It must not only address surface-level issues; but it must also delve deeper and address underlying challenges. True innovation takes into account the steps and processes and not just the end goal or product.

Popular Packaging Innovations

Over the years, there have been numerous creative packaging ideas that changed the way consumers and manufacturers think about the entire industry. Consumers are calling for more eco-friendly packaging materials and manufacturing processes that reduce waste. The following are a list of ideas your company can implement.

You can consider using one or a combination for your product. The main focus should be on creating a packaging design that represents your brand’s identity. Remember that your product packaging is also your final marketing statement to your buyers. Examine your competitors’ packaging and make sure it stands out.

Target Market

The days of appealing to the masses are long gone. Companies have discovered that targeting a specific segment of society is more profitable. While this is not an innovation in packaging, the concept has significantly altered how businesses develop marketing strategies. Packaging design can be tailored to appeal to certain age groups, genders, and ethnicities. This will result in higher sales because it gives customers the impression that a business is catering to their specific needs.

Nature Inspired

The days of appealing to the masses are long gone. Companies have discovered that targeting a specific segment of society is more profitable. While this is not an innovation in packaging, the concept has significantly altered how businesses develop marketing strategies. Packaging design can be tailored to appeal to certain age groups, genders, and ethnicities. This will result in higher sales because it gives customers the impression that a business is catering to their specific needs.

Reusable Packaging

Sustainable packaging made of recycled materials 1

The food and beverage industries are well-known for using single-use plastics to package their products. This is unsustainable in the long run due to massive consumer demand.

Glass bottles are a great example of reusable packaging. They can be used for any drink. Due to their reusable nature, the consumer does not have to worry about disposing or recycling it immediately after consuming the product. They have the option to reuse it for other beverages.

Bio-based Packaging Materials

Majority of the plastic packaging we see today is derived from fossil fuels. Manufacturers have discovered a method to obtain packaging materials from living organisms. This type of innovation is known as bio-based materials.

The environmental implications of this discovery will change the packaging industry for the better. It will meet two specific requirements: the never-ending demand for product packaging and reduction of its environmental impact, especially in the single-use and take-away packaging space.

Non-traditional Shapes

Zero2

The first image that comes to mind when we think of packaging designs is that of plain boxes and bags. From a marketing standpoint, this does not bode well for a company. Customers will have a difficult time distinguishing their products from competitors.

This is where packaging with unusual shapes comes into play. It improves the customer experience. Plastics in the shape of wine bottles are becoming popular. For cigarettes, an eco-friendly box in the style of a coffin was used to emphasise the dangers of smoking. Milk cartons or glass bottles in the shape of cows might be used to lend a touch of quirkiness. The only limitations are that of the machine and the marketing team’s imagination.

Innovative Packaging Designs by Close the Loop

Close the Loop has worked hard to provide innovative food packaging designs to a number of businesses across Australia. The following incorporates an array of good design features, sustainable materials, and brand representation.

Oven Safe Meat & Poultry Bag with Adhesive Strip

This flat bottom pouch is made from specialised heat-resistance specifications and has a kraft paper finish. It is ideal for the retail sale of cooked meat and poultry. Staff members in-store can use the internal adhesive strip to place the cooked product, while the bags themselves can be reheated in the oven or microwave if necessary.
Poultry bag with adhesive strip

Kick Ice Cocktails Freezer Stand Up Pouch

Kick Ice Cocktails pouches add a fun and unique touch to your next party or function. The bag has a measuring guide at the back for consumers to pour in water and their desired alcoholic beverage mixer, before sealing and freezing the pouch to make their delicious slushy treat!
Freezer Safe Stand Up Pouch

Dona Cholita

Dona Cholita, based in Byron Bay, uses high barrier recyclable, mono polymer pouches for their custom corn chip packaging. This enables them to participate in the Roll ‘n’ Recycle programme. As a result, their packaging is recyclable via existing kerbside recycling infrastructure!

Recyclable Stand Up Pouch

Frequently Asked Questions

How does innovative packaging handle the plastic waste problem?

Packaging, particularly food packaging, generates the most plastic waste amongst any industry in the world. As a result, they bear the greatest responsibility in attempting to mitigate their impact. Brands are investing heavily in R&D because it benefits not only the environment but also their bottom line.

By continuing to look for ways to use renewable sources, innovative food packaging can help address the plastic waste problem. Packaging reuse, recycling, and composting have also been prioritised.

Looking for ways to innovate your packaging? Get in touch with Close the Loop! We can help you find creative ways to present your product to your target market.
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