Packaging consumer products is one of the most important aspects of marketing. Eye-catching design packaging should make both a physical and psychological connection. The packaging identifies the product and reassures consumers that their purchase is the right one. However, this can only occur when brand owners match the qualities of the product’s packaging with what consumers desire. The packaging should never prevent consumers from making a purchase. To get this right, there are some tips that marketers and design experts should apply.
1. Begin Early
Begin Designing the Packaging Early in the Product Development Process. Draft several ideas in order to get a visual of what the end product should look like. Compare what some of the competitors have done with their packaging. Packaging ideas might also come from products in a different category. Develop mock-ups based on target market research. Consumers are the best source for expressing what they want to see or need.
2. Keep it simple
Less is more for many products. Trying to oversell a product through its packaging can have the opposite effect. Make sure the packaging performs what is necessary, nothing more. The product should be easily transportable, include applicable warning, and also preserve and protect the product. Custom packaging or even folding carton packaging can be expensive and if it serves no purpose, a waste of marketing dollars.
3. Consider Branding and Positioning
Market Positioning and Branding are Important Factors to Consider. Knowing the target market for a specific product includes identifying their expectations for the product. Investigating the end users will help determine the most effective and eye-catching packaging. Find out how competitor’s products are failing to meet needs and exploit it.
4. Identify How it will be sold
Selling products over the Internet is a slightly different animal than having products in a brick and mortar store. Consumers are unable to touch and feel the product before buying, so the packaging must appeal to other senses. Still, a product that sits on a shelf has to standout from the competing products enough for consumers to buy it.
5. Focus on typography
Whether the product is sold over the Internet, in the store or both, the text on the packaging should be legible. The target market determines how small or large to make the text. The text colour should blend with the overall design of the packaging. This also requires putting what is important on the packaging and omitting superfluous text. If consumers have to strain to read how wonderful the product is, they will buy from the competitor.
6. Think Green
Many consumers are becoming more conscious of how the products they buy affect environmental issues. Most people recycle and expect product packaging to also be friendly to the environment. Developing eye-catching packaging designs that double as eco-friendly packaging can also boost sales.
There may also be legislative production requirements to consider. Not all are restricted by law; however, consumers and advocacy groups may take notice. Being a good corporate citizen towards the environment can pay off.
7. Hold the Consumer’s Attention
Target market research will reveal ideas that will get and hold consumers’ attention. The average consumer has a short attention span and may need many whistles and bells before deciding to buy the product. However, the packaging should not have so many trends and colours that it becomes irrelevant. Finding the perfect balance may come through trial and error. Maintain consumer loyalty by making slight changes to the packaging at least every two years.
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