Changing consumer preferences have an increasing impact on the choice of packaging in wholesale trade. Consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of their choices on the environment, which is why they are looking for products packaged in an ecological way. The popularity of certain ecological trends is also fueled by the media, creating social pressure that even wholesalers do not avoid. Consumers increasingly pay attention to healthy eating and choose products packaged in a way that allows easy access to information about the product content.
Packaging of food products - the latest trends
In recent years, we have been observing dynamic changes in consumer preferences that affect various areas of the market. One of the key areas where these changes are particularly visible is the wholesale trade in packaging for food and beverage products. Growing environmental awareness, changing shopping habits, as well as technological development have influenced the way manufacturers and distributors approach the issue of packaging. What trends have been dominant in recent years and are likely to continue for a long time to come?
- Sustainable packaging - the priority of consumers
Climate change and the increase in ecological awareness have caused consumers to pay more and more attention to the sustainable way of packaging production. Traditional plastic packaging is considered harmful to the environment due to its long decomposition time and recycling problems. Consumers are reluctant to use plastic disposable cups for drinks, and even prefer to pay extra for a more expensive bottle of water in glass to give up plastic. Therefore, manufacturers and wholesalers are increasingly reaching for more ecological alternatives, such as biodegradable and compostable packaging, packaging made of recyclable materials or reusable packaging.
Biodegradable and compostable packaging is nothing more than packaging made of materials that can be decomposed by microorganisms in the natural environment. They are most often made of raw materials such as cardboard, PLA plastics and cellulose. Modern technologies allow for the creation of durable and durable packaging that allows you to store drinks and even have thermal insulation properties. Very often, biodegradable packaging (both disposable and reusable) is made as part of recycling, which further increases their environmental attractiveness.
Reusable packaging is, as the name suggests, reusable. These packages can be made of various materials such as glass, metal, plastic or wood. They are even more environmentally friendly than biodegradable packaging. Reusable packaging is increasingly used by food wholesalers, both for storing products and for transport. Despite some additional efforts related to the logistics of such packaging and maintaining their hygiene, the investment in multiple packaging turns out to be not only beneficial for the environment, but also financially profitable.
Packaging with a transparent structure allows consumers easy access to information about the content of the product. These packages are often made of clear glass or plastic. Thanks to this, consumers can see the appearance of the product, its composition and expiration date.
Packages with clear information about the content of the product contain all relevant information about the product, such as product name, composition, expiry date, nutritional value, method of preparation and the manufacturer's logo. This information is prominently displayed on the packaging so that consumers can easily find it.
- Minimalism and functionality
Another trend in packaging is minimalism and functionality. Consumers appreciate packaging that is simple, aesthetic and practical to use. Packaging should meet consumer expectations in terms of ease of opening, storage, and keeping products fresh. Packaging with excessive stickers or overprints is relegated to the background in favor of more elegant and ergonomic solutions. Today, more and more goods are sold in packages that are easy to pick up, put in a basket and then put in the fridge. This applies to e.g. of food products.
- A response to the growing demand for e-commerce
E-commerce is another factor that affects the choice of packaging in wholesale trade. Online shopping is becoming more and more popular, so packaging must be adapted to the safe transport and delivery of products to customers. Safe packaging that protects products from damage during delivery has become a key element to ensure a positive shopping experience and customer loyalty.
- Personalization and branding
In the competitive world of retail, it is becoming increasingly difficult to stand out on store shelves. That is why producers and distributors often use personalized packaging that attracts the attention of customers. The introduction of unique patterns, colors and even the possibility of personalizing the customer's name on the packaging can increase brand recognition and consumer loyalty.
What are the benefits of investing in attractive and ecological packaging for wholesalers?
Investments in attractive and ecological packaging bring many benefits to wholesalers both in the short and long term. Here are some of the main benefits that can come from such investments:
- Increased competitiveness
Attractive and sustainable packaging can help wholesalers stand out in the market. Nowadays, when consumers are increasingly paying attention to sustainable development and ecological approach of companies, offering products in environmentally friendly packaging can attract more customers and increase the company's competitiveness on the market. A retailer who can order goods in a practical and ecological packaging already from a wholesaler will be more willing to take advantage of such an offer, as it will make it easier for him to display goods in his own store and will probably attract customers. Research shows that 70% of consumers decide to buy a product that is packaged in an attractive way.
- Greater brand awareness
Attractive and unique packaging can help build brand awareness. Packaging is an excellent platform for expressing the company's values and mission, as well as telling its story. Customers often remember and recognize products by their distinctive packaging, which influences brand loyalty.
- Positive image of the company
Investing in ecological packaging shows the company's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. This attitude builds a positive image of the company as a responsible and pro-ecological entrepreneur, which can attract new customers and investors and increase the trust of existing customers. A company trading in an unecological and unsustainable way could not only expose itself to its customers and consumers, but also to the public, which would certainly have a negative impact on business activity.
- Long-term cost reduction
While investing in sustainable packaging may require more money initially, it can save you money in the long run. Green packaging is often more durable and has a lower environmental impact, which can result in lower transport, storage and disposal costs.
- Compliance with regulations
In many countries, there are increasingly stringent regulations regarding packaging and its impact on the environment. Investing in ecological packaging allows you to avoid potential fines and sanctions related to non-compliance with regulations.
- A response to growing customer requirements
Consumers increasingly expect companies to take steps to protect the environment. Attractive and ecological packaging is the answer to these growing requirements, which can contribute to the growth of customer loyalty and building positive relationships with them.