The growing importance of packaging in the shopping experience explained

SAM | 26th January 2019

Many businesses place a great degree of effort into the shopping experience they offer customers, and rightly so. But, despite this effort, far too many ignore one of the most important elements of any shopping experience – the packaging.

 

Spend a few minutes browsing the following link: https://www.bestbuyenvelopes.uk, and see the range of customisable packaging available for purchase. Packaging is a wise investment for any retail business, as it says a lot about the way that business works.

 

Packaging quality

 

The packaging is the first thing the customer has their hands on when they receive an item that they’ve bought online. So, as with any tactile element, it needs to be pleasant to the touch and durable enough to withstand the rigours of shipping. This gives the customer the basic message that the business cares about protecting their purchase right up to the front door.

The packaging needs to be in line with the value and nature of the item being sent. Low value items sent in luxurious packaging will make it seem like the business is wasting money. High value items sent in basic, cost-efficient packaging will completely ruin the experience of purchasing an exclusive item. Finding the right tone is essential.

Packaging also needs to be practical, as well as pretty. Logos, branding, and slogans will do no good if the packaging is crumbling to pieces by the time it gets to the recipient. Invest a little more money into the durability of the packaging, and customers will not only appreciate it but the risk of returns due to damage in transit will automatically drop.

 

Environmental footprint

 

The environment is a hot-button issue for many customers, and a business that is wilfully wasteful in the packaging they use will not be sending a very positive message. Excess of materials, single-use plastic, difficult accessing the goods inside – many customers frequently complain of businesses using excess packaging materials, rather than thinking practically.

The packaging used is a great way to signal the green credentials of a business. Many customers would prefer plainer packaging, as opposed to something glittery and sparkly, if it means it can be easier to recycle or re-purpose the packaging. This is something all businesses need to consider – the benefits for a concerted drive towards ecologically friendly packaging are considerable.

However, a business chooses to package their products, it’s essential they put time and consideration into it – it’s becoming one of the most important elements of the shopping experience.