Why the Texture of Your Flexible Retail Packaging Matters

Manufacturers and packaging suppliers alike know how important branding is on a product’s packaging.

It has the ability to make a great first impression on shoppers and shape public opinion before the product inside is even seen. Companies put a lot of thought into creative design, graphics, and labels, but what about the actual texture of the container? How much does this alter brand perception among consumers? Quite a bit, as it turns out.

A new study shows shoppers gravitate toward softer textures on retail packaging. The look of the product on the shelves has the ability to catch a consumer’s attention in a matter of seconds, but the way it feels in their hands can evoke a much greater response. A velvety laminate can conjure up more emotional intensity among shoppers than rigid cardboard or standard plastic. This impacts the beverage industry specifically, as consumers are generally more likely to carry around a drink as they go about their day, and the feeling and portability of the package must comply with their wants and needs. This is where inventive liquid packaging solutions like spouted pouches can take your brand to the next level.

Aside from the texture of retail packaging, consumers are also looking for companies and suppliers that are dedicated to packaging innovation – especially related to functionality and safety. A great design and nice touch can certainly influence buyer behavior, but if the packaging isn’t structurally sound, it’s not going to stick around long in stores or in customers’ homes. Believe it or not, packaging and emotion go hand in hand – if a consumer is frustrated that he or she can’t get to the desired product because of a hard-to-open bag or box, the perception of the good inside is going to be altered dramatically.

Consumers desire intuitive, easy-to open retail packaging that prevents spilling or breaking and will keep products fresh. Companies that work with flexible retail packaging suppliers to combine great aesthetics, innovative functionality, solid structure, and ease of use are going to be at an incredible advantage than those that stick to traditional containers because they’re afraid of change. Liquid bags with spout are already transforming a wide range of companies, from baby food to wine and even household cleaning products, because they keep contents safe and aren't susceptible to breakage or puncture like rigid glass jars or flimsy plastic bags.

Face it – the old “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” adage isn’t going to position companies as innovative leaders in their industries. Good retail packaging communicates to consumers that big brands are really listening to their concerns and care enough to give their products the very best presentation possible.

If you’re looking to select retail packaging made of materials consumers love and lend well too creative, unique designs, stand up bags and spouted pouches are perfect solutions. The food and beverage industry is evolving and changing at a rapid pace, and brands just can’t afford to keep their products in boxes or bulky containers that are unstable and lead to stale, contaminated food and drink.

All stand up pouches are made with layers of protective barrier film and are available in highly desired glossy or smooth matte finishes. When selecting a packaging solution that will strike a chord with consumers, this is a no brainer. Get in touch today to learn which flexible retail packaging option is right for your brand and your product.

(Image Source: WeeSprout)