Regardless of the type of product that you sell, there are numerous problems that can arise throughout the packaging process. From the design to the actual manufacturing to ensuring the packaging protects your product during shipping, you need to stay on top of everything. Some potential issues in product packaging are more common than others, so be on the lookout for these common problems and know what to do if they arise.
Growing Dated
One of the biggest packaging problems is failing to innovate and adjust the product packaging to the times. Trends and consumer tastes change over time, so your packaging needs to as well. The designs on packaging from decades ago will no longer work today; they will simply seem dated. Savvy brands know this and update their packaging and imagery over time.
Regularly evaluate your product packaging to make sure it is still relevant and exciting. If all of your competitors have recently had dramatic updates and you have not, think long and hard about whether you should as well. Remember that dated packaging can refer to more than just the overall design and branding. For example, sustainability did not matter much a decade ago but is key today.
Being Wasteful
Speaking of sustainability, another common problem today is packaging that is too wasteful. This is a serious concern, whether it is one-time use packaging or containers that use harmful substances like certain plastics that cannot be recycled. Not only is being wasteful in packaging bad for the planet, but consumers are starting to demand you avoid this.
The solution is to look at your packaging and see what you can do to make it more sustainable. Can you start using recycled and recyclable materials? Can you reduce the amount of materials used in the packaging? Can you make it reusable for another purpose in the future?
High Costs
Depending on your product packaging, you may also have to deal with high costs associated with production and shipping. Even the smallest cost can add up when multiplied by quantities in the hundreds or thousands. The issue of costs can become more problematic if you find your company needing to raise prices to maintain your profits, despite competitors keeping their prices the same.
To resolve this issue, sit down and do lots of math. Start by evaluating how your packaging costs have changed over time and what you have done to combat that. Remember that the material that used to be the cheapest may not hold that title anymore. See if something like switching packaging manufacturers or changing materials will drop costs. Alternately, evaluate whether you can reduce the amount of packaging used, as this will lower the cost of materials.
No Consumer Perspective
A final crucial issue many companies face is failing to think about the consumers when designing their packaging. Many create their packaging in a vacuum, which is a serious mistake.
Avoid the problem by talking to your consumers and seeing what they want from your product packaging. Do they like the shape? The colors? What would they change? Take their input to heart and make necessary changes when feasible.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
