Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a large enterprise, you’ll know that packaging has powerful potential to elevate your business, leveraging your visibility, driving sales and contributing to brand awareness.
However, navigating your way through a million seemingly similar products can be a bit of a minefield. And, because trimming expenses is often a key objective, it’s easy to opt for financial prudence and go the cheaper route.
What you may not realise is that these less expensive solutions are often laden with hidden costs, tripping you up in the long run. As experts in the field, here are some tips on what to look out for when making your decisions.
How quality relates to long-term cost effectiveness
As accomplished packaging professionals, we’re here to tell you that a box isn’t just a box. And, if you were previously tempted by products offering lower price points, you’ll agree. Why? Because, while your initial spend may be minimal, your long-term one won’t be. Here are some differentials that account for the overall success of a high-quality product:
Prototypes are well-considered and properly tested Good containers are designed by experts who take every eventuality into consideration and will put all new ideas to task before a final sign-off. This guarantees purpose, durability, functionality and ease of use, thereby eliminating costly errors, wastage and, ultimately, customer dissatisfaction.
Longevity is a given Generic alternatives are usually mass produced using inferior materials which are inclined to warp, disintegrate or damage easily, creating a need for constant replacement that will end up being heavy on the pocket. Conversely, a more luxurious solution will maintain its integrity, giving you long-term use and mitigating the need for a bigger budget.
Made-to-measure availability Discerning packaging providers often offer customisation options that allow you to create something that perfectly houses your merchandise without excessive fillers or the risk of damage, again reducing costs and creating a more polished aesthetic.
Efficient delivery
Mitigating potential breakages through well-designed packaging ensures that every product arrives intact, saving you costs on replacements and reshipping. If you intend to widely distribute your merchandise, this should be one of your primary considerations, so look out for boxes that are accredited by reputable shipping and delivery companies – or explore our extensive range at WBC.
Properly sized Discerning packaging suppliers will ensure all their offerings are designed with appropriate sizing in mind. This means that whether you stock wine, beverages or food, every container you order will be made to industry-standard measurements, ensuring that they’re a perfect fit and lessening the need for excessive fillers.
Environmental sustainability and compliance Perhaps one of the most pivotal benefits of high-quality boxing is that it is likely to be made from sustainable resources. And, as this has become a key demand from all levels of the supply chain, it’s an essential consideration.
This paradigm shift has placed the industry at a juncture as social responsibility weighs in against cost but with an increase in regulations that call for product life-cycle monitoring, and a plea for compostable and biodegradable options, this commitment is likely to pay off in the long run.
Cheap offerings that contain frowned-upon elements like single-use plastics are quickly falling from grace, making a well-timed shift toward a more conscious choice well worth the investment.
Branding benefits that give high-end packaging the edge
Shelf-ready boxing is widely considered a branding essential for more reasons than you may realise. But, if you’re buying the basics from suppliers who mass produce, many of these customer-centric perks may not apply. This is why seeking out an expert is worth a higher price tag:
Protection: Elite packaging providers are focused on manufacturing premium products that are engineered to safeguard your merchandise from damage caused by handling and transportation. And, while high-end resources and streamlined design services may be reflected in your initial outlay, their role in reducing the risk of costly returns and dissatisfied customers will pay out in the long run.
Product identity and content information: Businesses that specialise in this industry, like WBC, offer exclusive services that allow you to personalise your boxing choices. From a well-placed company logo to essential details that include ingredients, nutritional information, instructions and allergens, clear labelling will inspire potential consumers to make informed purchasing choices. This, in turn, enhances the trustworthiness and integrity of your brand.
Unboxing: Well-considered blueprints will feature easy-to-open elements like perforated edges or overlocking handles that elevate the end-user's unboxing experience, fostering customer gratification and brand loyalty.
Disposal: Reducing the planet’s carbon footprint is now an obligation and packaging made from recyclable or compostable materials will help you, your retailer and the environmentally conscious shopper to fulfil this.
Our promise to deliver perfection made simple
At WBC, our aim is to partner with you to create packaging solutions that meet every need, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’ve hit the nail on the head.
Aside from our standard, high-quality offerings, we also offer personalisation options, beautifully executed by our talented in-house design team. Contact one of our account managers today or make an appointment to visit our showroom and we’ll get the ball rolling immediately.
