It’s here. The New Year. And you know what that means…new beginnings are a classic time for you to re-evaluate what’s working, what isn’t, and what can be improved.
But we’ve noticed that while companies are quick to consider operating costs, store layout, and even employee performance, they often overlook one of the most important details of running a good business: how their packaging is working to present their products in the best possible light.
To help you make sure your packaging is as hardworking as you are, we’ve compiled this list of some of the most popular packaging trends and ideas for 2017. Make the most of these suggestions to help boost your profits and make your customers smile.
#1. Personalization and Customization Are In
One of the most popular new packaging ideas is the emphasis on personalizing your delivery boxes. Especially if you’re an online store, adding a personal touch like printing your customer’s name on the interior of your box will help to replicate the face-to-face interaction they’d experience in a brick-and-mortar shop. Still, we understand that if you’re a larger company, or just starting out and maybe struggling a bit, personalizing every box isn’t just time-consuming, it can also be costly – but if this just isn’t in your time or cost budget, you can achieve the same result by adding in a quick personalized note if possible, even if it’s a form letter where only the shopper’s name is changed.
That’s why we think customized lettering is another fabulous way to set your packaging apart (not to mention, having your own unique font will help to build your brand and make it more recognizable to customers).
Keep in mind that a less “industrial” font may be more appealing to customers. Fonts that emulate handwriting can be an indication of a smaller, more client-focused business. Don’t be afraid to go wild with your colors – it’s time to go beyond black and white, and customers will appreciate that you went outside the norm!
#2. Play Peek-A-Boo
Sheer paneling isn’t just a fashion trend – it’s also a great way to let your customers take a look at the actual product inside your cardboard or carton boxes. Not only does this communicate that you’re super-confident in the quality of your products, it also allows you to create fun, unexpected shapes out of the panel itself. For example, if you’re a pasta company, how about having spaghetti noodles act as flowing locks on a figure drawn on the box? If you’re packaging light bulbs, why not draw a head below the panel, to indicate that buying your product is a “bright idea?”
#3. Add A Vintage Touch
It’s true what they say – everything old at some point becomes new again. You may not be able to package your products in a mason jar, but you can steal some inspiration from the days of yore. Play up a vintage feel can subliminally let clients know your product has withstood the test of time (hello, marketing 101), and hopping on the vintage bandwagon may allow you to connect with a younger market. We suggest using an old-school font and even playing around with some swell lingo on your packaging. Check out this post on the Smithsonian’s website for inspiration. There’s nothing better than the combination of old world charm with today’s packaging advancements!
You’re Ready to Roll!
Now that you’ve been properly inspired, we’re ready to start making your cardboard box dreams a reality. No matter what kind of product you’re selling, your packaging should be thought of as an integral part of both your overall business strategy and your specific marketing plan. Make 2017 the year you finally take advantage of all the amazing opportunities unique and customized retail packaging can provide your business with. Get in touch with the Custom Boxes Now team today to finalize your ideas.
To start your own project, start building your own custom shipping boxes, folding cartons, or contact us and we’ll help you with all your questions.
