Top 4 eCommerce Packaging Trends of 2014

Packaging trends keep changing every year, especially for the eCommerce business that need to constantly renovate as well as innovate for capturing the interest of its customers in addition to increasing brand value / awareness. From the packaging design to the choice of Packaging Materials every step in the process helps in defining a characteristic package for the respective business. It is not mandatory that every business should follow the trends. With a little innovation and keen insight into the customer’s preferences, one can easily come up with designs that can become trend setters in the industry. Check out the top 4 trends that would be evident in the eCommerce industry for the year, 2014.

Going Green

The green initiative is a trend that is being encourage across industries and sectors for ensuring optimal utilization of the available resources. We do not want our future generations to be left with nothing. So we need to start behaving in a responsible manner, starting with packaging. Green packaging does not only focus on the use of recycled / recyclable materials but it also emphasizes on the amount of raw materials being used for preparing each unit of packaging material. Ideally, the raw materials component should be reduced without affecting the standard specifications for quality standards. A good example of this is the “Rapid Packing Container” developed by Henry Wang and Chris Curro.

Second Life Packaging

As the name suggests, second life packaging is one which may be reused again. This is a great way to encourage people to maximise the use of the packaging box instead of discarding it after the product has been received. It is not necessary that the packaging be used just for storing things in the second life. For example, in the image provided here, the packaging opens up into a wonderful lampshade. Similarly other boxes have been developed that double as pots once the contents of the package have been retrieved.

The “Functional” Aspect of Packaging

Most businesses have used the tried and tested method of making visually appealing packages. But are they really able to attract the customers with visual characteristics? The current trend indicates a rising preference towards the use of functional packaging which means better storage capabilities and multiple applications. Customers, however, are pretty satisfied with the convenience and ease of using the contents that comes with the functional designs. For example, the food box used to pack the burger prevents any stains from being made and once the lid is removed, it opens up into a wonderful ready-to-serve place. This is the type of functional packaging that eCommerce businesses have started focusing on.

Hybrid Packaging Concepts

Hybrids are a welcome change in any industry as it allows the best-of-all-worlds approach to be used. Not only do they have a humorous twist to the visual appeal but they are really hard to leave unnoticed. Take for example this image which portrays a paintbrush. This is a simple product and hardly anyone takes notice because the Packaging usually involves a plain cover with basic product info. The manufacturer of this product took the design to a whole new level by creating sketches of faces in such a way that when the brushes are packed, they appear to be moustaches. Now this is a really creative way of going about it.

These are the trends that are currently gaining widespread popularity, even for non-eCommerce businesses. As we are just in the early second quarter of 2014, it can be a challenge to predict future trends. But these 4 trends are the major ones that would be evident this year. All other trends would probably be direct derivatives of these 4 major initiatives.  

How Does Premium Packaging Design Cause Social Media Ripple Effect

The social media has been the most prominent platforms exhibiting the ripple effect. As soon as a person posts an engaging content or something that is very interesting, then everyone in the social circle begins circulating it by sharing, tagging or just about any other way in which its visibility would increase. This is the underlying principle of the ripple effect.

So how does the ripple effect relate to premium Packaging Material? It’s simple – if you give your customers a premium package that is presented well and has a lot of visual appeal, then its probability of being shared on social platforms increases more. Now if we were to consider the impact of such organic sharing on a large scale, just imagine the amount of brand awareness and marketing that the business would be able to achieve in a natural manner. Not a single penny goes into this activity, yet the returns on this are phenomenal. Products that are ‘attractively packaged’ can generate a ripple of residual marketing effects, and this helps to increase the revenue of the ecommerce business. This is the best possible use of Wholesale Packaging Boxes.

With such rippling effect, ecommerce business not only earn loyalty from their customers but they also initiate word-of-mouth publicity which is great for any business. According to the findings obtained from the 2013 eCommerce Packaging Survey, the following key insights were highlighted.

·     71% customers expect premium packaging when purchasing products that have a high price tag.

·         9 in 10 customers reuse the box in which the product is delivered.

·         35% of the consumers have discovered a new brand by seeing the packaging in public.

·         Those who focus on their packaging designs can generate up to 30% increase interest in their brand.

·         40% of the customers are willing to share or post about the order along with a picture of the packaging if it appeals to their aesthetic expectations.

Customers are always on the lookout for the “wow” factor when they purchase products online. It is up to the ecommerce businesses to meet their expectations. A happy customer equates to business growth, increase in revenue and repeat purchases. These are in addition to the principal outcome – Brand Awareness. 

Packaging Options for Your E-Commerce Startup

Do you love opening gift? Just the excitement of discovering the contents and the pleasure of removing each layer of the packaging is an aesthetic as well as emotional experience that is second to none. Imagine the same experience being provided to the customers of your ecommerce business. The packaging is the first thing that customers see when they receive their delivery. It is up to you to make their experience rather pleasurable. Apart from achieving great consumer experience, you would also be doing a great benefit to your business, as people would develop brand awareness and repeat purchase would be made possible. These conditions provide great leverage to any business in terms of income generating and maximizing opportunities.

Selecting the Base Material

Let’s consider Corrugated Boxes or carton boxes as they are popularly known. The first and foremost step is to decide on the substrate. Now substrate is merely a fancy way of referring to the base material which in this case is a cardboard. The reason for considering cardboard is that almost 99% packaging requirements are fulfilled with this material and only a handful of requirements need other materials. And why shouldn't this be used? It is easily available, durable, and cost effective and can be acquired in any size and shape. 

Determining Packaging Types

Now that you decided on the substrate, it’s time to define the type of packaging. Go through your entire inventory and make a list of the common packaging needs for all of them. Do they need top-opening boxes or side opening boxes? Once the requirements have been laid out, it would be easy for you to place your order accordingly in keeping with the specific size requirements. Remember – an ecommerce business cannot run the risk of storing uniformly created boxes. There are so many products, each with their own shapes and sizes, so it would be good to find a Packaging Solutions Provider who can fulfill your requirements on a regular basis.

The External Branding

It’s as simple as placing your brand / logo on the external part of the packaging. It doesn't cost much but it adds a whole lot of consumer value to the package. The external part was plain anyways, so why not make good use of the space and give your business a much needed leverage? A major benefit of this form of branding – your business gets high visibility even as it travels. This is in addition to the relevance that customers create upon receiving the package. It makes their investments seem worth the while, especially when the shipping costs have been borne by them. In case you do not have the budget to afford custom branding, then you can always opt for plain unbranded boxes and then brand them when you have the required funds. Another good option is to use stickers or branded accessories such as tapes which can add to the marketing quotient of the package.

The Inside Packaging

This is what differentiates successful businesses from mediocre businesses. Most people think that the external branding suffices the need for creating marketing value. But when people open the package and find the branding there – that is the point where a dedicated customer is created or the chances of creation are highly likely. Make sure the content is packed with the right amount of cushioning and aesthetic appeal so that the customer is left with a visual treat along with the excitement of unravelling the layers of packaging to reach the content stored inside. And while you are preparing the inside for a fabulous presentation, why not include content resources that people often look out for. For example, if a customer orders a barbeque grill, then it would be a great idea to include a short book on “how to grill the best burger” or similar titles. This would go a long way in achieving customer satisfaction and retention.

Creative Packaging for Ecommerce Product Shipments

Ever wondered why ecommerce products shipments often fail on making an impact on the consumers? Maybe the packaging is pretty bland as protection of the contents is the primary aim in the logistic of the shipment. Very few are able to gauge the benefits that can be reaped if one is able to creatively tweak the packaging so that it is able to contribute on a marketing level. If the business is able to grab more opportunities with simple modifications to the packaging design, then there is no reason for businesses’ to delay it further.

The Downside of Using Standard Packaging

It is fairly easy to get those common Brown Packaging Boxes for stuffing the product and shipping it to the customer. This is a cheap option and obviously seems attractive for its cost value benefit. After all, the product is being shipped securely. But this does not capture the attention of the consumers. By coming up with distinctive packaging designs, not only would you be able to make an impact on prospective consumers while the product is in transit, but the person receiving the shipment would also be impressed with the amount of efforts that have been made for ensuring a pleasant experience.

The Packaging Design Should Reflect the Business’s Theme
Printed envelopes, poly-bags, boxes, tapes, etc. are some of the things that can be branded with the logo and theme of the ecommerce business. These are pretty easy to acquire and do not take excessive efforts for making it relevant to the theme of the business. Alternatively, the logo of the business can also be stamped onto the packaging itself. If you are willing to test your creative abilities, then come up with unique packages such as tubes or flat boxes.

The main aim of these modifications is to develop a packaging design that becomes characteristic of the ecommerce business. Once you able to create relevancy between the package and the brand, then almost 80% of the marketing is done. The only thing that remains is to ensure high quality services to complement the effectiveness of the packaging. One of the outcomes of using a branded package is that repeat customers would be able to recognize a product sent by your company instantly without even checking out the information mentioned on the package.

Security and Cost are Mandatory Factors That Need to be Considered

Under no circumstances should you ever compromise with the security and cost aspect of packaging. Protection of the contents is the primary requirement for any packaging design. Marketing effectiveness and aesthetic appeal are secondary / additional components. Using non-standard designs can cost you more for shipping them to the customers. Try to keep the overall costs as low as possible for ensuring greater profit margins. Make sure the design team considers every aspect of the packaging and evaluates all the possible costs before making a move.

What to Include in eCommerce Product Packaging when Custom Designs are not Feasible?

It is possible that some eCommerce businesses may not be able to come up with a package design that is able to conform to its cost constraints. In such situations, it is best to include components along with the basic package so that the customer is impressed with what he finds inside the package, rather than what is on the package. Here are some suggestions to get you started. 

• Make sure the contents are packed safely with plastic bags or bubble wraps. You can even use packing peanuts to provide cushioning against sudden forces. A good add-on in this case would be to go for branded bags as these are really inexpensive and they add a whole lot of value in terms of credibility and presentation.

• Apart from the packing slip / invoice which is a mandatory requirement, you could slip in a small handwritten note for that extra personal appeal. This goes a long way in ensuring customer retention which would in turn ensure repeat sales for the business.

• You could also throw in a few offers such as free product offers, discount coupons, special gifts and so on. This really helps to achieve high levels of consumer loyalty towards a particular brand.

Custom offerings are part of a rising marketing trend which is really effective in gaining the interest of customers. Everyone wants personalized stuff. So why not cash in on this opportunity for growing your business and increasing sales prospects. There are online packaging solution providers like DCGPAC who would gladly provide consultation for your requirements so that you may select the best materials that are suited for your need. 

6 Packaging Designs That Will Blow Your Mind

Forget about capturing your audience with creative designs. Forget about the “sales” perspective. Just take a moment to think about the emotional value of your package designs. Consider yourself an average shopper who is moving down the aisle with the shopping cart. You are searching for items that you have so dedicatedly noted on your checklist. And then all of a sudden, you see this rather Peculiar Packaging which at first, seems to get your attention, and then you are drawn towards it as if being pulled by invisible strings. You pick up the product, check out the construction and aesthetic appeal, and then you plan on buying it.

Now you would argue that this happens with most creative designs. But what you have failed to comprehend is the level of happiness that one gets when provided with designs that not only amuses his general perception but also tickles his creative aspect as well.

By emphasizing on “consumer happiness”, you are encouraging the development of a win-win situation where the companies are benefited with greater brand awareness and relevancy while customers simply enjoy these rather amusing designs that never fails to tickle the funny bone. Think this is a farfetched claim? Check out the following 15 product designs and see for yourself whether they fail to get your attention or do you share a warm smile on finding out what these packages contain.

“Tee” Bags or “Tea” Bags

Who would have thought that tea bags could be made so cute? Not only have the individual bags been made to resemble tees on hangers, but their storage method is also similar to a natural wardrobe. Check out the way in which the tea bags are stored in the box. Now this would make any tea-time experience pleasurable. And it just doesn’t stop here. The hangers themselves help to keep the bag latched on to the rim of the cup. Now that’s creativity – amalgamating aesthetics with functionality.

The “Cheesy” Pencil

We all love shredded parmesan cheese on our salads, sandwiches and just about anything. There is something about cheese that is rather tempting. Well, the designers have taken it up a notch by shaping the cheese into pencils and even presenting it in a similar fashion. So the next time you need some cheese shavings, all you got to do is to take out that sharpener and start sharpening away. I am sure these shavings you will love to keep. Also, it brings back some fond childhood memories. This is a really “cheesy” way to tickle one’s sense of humour.

Fresh Cookies, Anyone?

Food being served hot, often fresh from the stove / oven, has become synonymous with the freshness of the food. No matter where you may in the world, there is nothing better than oven fresh cookies that are served hot. Nothing helps to life the mood like some good old milk and cookies. Taking this idea into the design perspective, this brand has literally presented its customers with cookies that seem to “come out the oven”. This gives an idea that the cookies are freshly baked and this goes on to create an emotional value that is second to none and not even remotely achievable through textual depictions.

The Truth is Always “Skin” Deep

It doesn’t get any more natural than this. Fruit is meant to be had in its skin. Then why not have its juice in packages made from the skin as well. These fruit drinks come in the skin package of the fruit whose juice is contained in it. Not only is this aesthetically refreshing and a welcome change from the boring tetra packs, but it shows that there is no end to sustainable Packaging Ideas. Now the phrase, “100% natural drink” will be more relevant to the customers.

Origami Tea Bags – A True Treat From the Orient

Now this is something new. A green tea bag that unfolds into an origami bird as the tea dissolves into the warm water. It doesn’t get more oriental than this. More than the tea itself, it is the joy of watching the origami bird unfurl before your eyes and then simply hover inside the water while the tea infuses, which creates a great aesthetic and visual appeal that tingles all the senses. This is indeed a culinary and sensory fiesta.

Wanna Steal My Lunch Now!!!

Stolen lunch is the plight of every child. No matter how you try to save up that precious morsel, someone will get their hands on it before you can even realize it. Gone are those days. Just look at the creativity that the designer has infused into this simple lunch bag. By giving it an external view of fungus, it makes this perfectly edible sandwich seem mouldy and completely unfit for consumption. This is exactly the kind of deterrence that kids have been dreaming about. Now you can forget about hiding your lunch. Keep it out in the open in plain sight. No bully, irrespective of his humongous hunger quotient, will ever think about picking up this lunch bag. At times, “dirty is good!”

Creative Ideas for Repurposing Your Moving Boxes

Now that you have finally relocated to your new home, what about the boxes? Stop! Don’t throw them away. Squishing them and putting them away won’t do much good either. With a little effort and a small sprinkling of creativity, you could come up with marvellous creations that you never though was possible with used Corrugated Boxes. By re-using it, not only do you extend the life of the box but you also save up on material costs by maximizing its usage. Check out the following ideas that could get you started.

Idea 1: Use Them for Storage

This is a great way of using moving boxes as they have ample space in them to provide storage for a lot of your household items. From storing clothes to putting away old books – these boxes can do wonders if treated properly. You could even convert big boxes into portable wardrobes (check the image). With a little patience, you can even come up with decorative storage compartments for putting away toys and other common items that are usually scattered around the house.

Idea 2: Time to Play the Game

Now this is where the fun actually behinds. The kids enjoy playing with such custom made games. You can come up with games such as fishing pots, board games and building blocks if you want to keep the efforts minimal. However, if you are willing to take that extra step, then you can even create usable vehicles for kids, play houses, painting drying surfaces, etc.

Idea 3: The Household Helper

When you get the hang of using Cardboard Boxes, you will be amazed at the number of applications that it has. Fill up an empty box with rugs and worn out blankets and Voila!! – A bed for your beloved pet. Need a tool for checking where the leaks are coming from in your car? Just shove a flattened box under your car and watch as the drops reveal the location of the leak. This is also a great storage unit for collecting every recyclable item which can be sent to the facility later. A really good use of the boxes is to flatten them and cover the floor when considering painting the house or doing any art work that could stain your floors and your memories. 

Choosy About Your Bags? Why Not A Bag For Every Season!!

Still using your trustworthy bag wherever you go? You might not seem to take much notice of it, but the fact it that changing your bags once in a while won’t do much harm. In fact, if you change your bag for every season, then just imagine the kind of lively vibrancy that it would add to your personality. However, since we are all different in terms of perception, tastes and personality, you have the non-changers and you have the changers.

The Non-Changers!

These are the people who are either too emotionally attached to their bag or are too lazy to change it. This may sound a bit harsh but this is the fact. You can question yourself and find out why you do not like

changing your bag. You would be surprised at the answers that you arrive at. You might convince yourself that there is no use of changing bags and that your bag is the “one for all seasons” product. But do you really believe this to be real? Imagine having just one season, no matter what season it was. It would be so boring and gloomy. Changing seasons bring with them vibrant feelings, new colours, new ambiance, new thrills and above all the anticipation of the next season. This is exactly what applies to changing bags. If you are not into this trend, then start right away. Try changing your bag once for a change and feel the difference.

The Changers!

Now these are the people who don’t mind adding spice to their life. A bag for every season can easily change your mood and can set your style quotient for that season. You can tell the changers from the non-changers by simply feeling their excitement and happiness.

If you fall in this category, then you are one happy person. More than just flaunting your latest acquisition, you would be planning on your next bag for the coming season. And while you are at it, you will go through immense lengths to make sure you have the most unique and trendy bag in the market. Just check out how lively these people in the image look. Just the addition of a simple accessory such as a bag can do wonders. Since you are one amongst the changers, why not try something even more creative.

Share your ideas with us. Put on your thinking caps and give us the benefit of Your Creativity. Who knows – maybe you could start off a trend that could last for a long time !!