Product Packaging Trends 2018
As we know, packaging design is evolving, particularly within the retail and e-commerce sectors. In store your product needs to stand out. It should reflect your brand personality and what better way to do this than through the product packaging.  Online retailers also now recognise the importance of good packaging design and are striving to create a striking first and a positive lasting impression with the unboxing experience.  The result in both cases is an enhanced shopping experience for the consumer, which in turn drives product sales upwards.
With so many ways to print your product packaging, combined with a myriad of different substrates to choose from, we have delved into our archives and scoured the web for images of inspiring packaging designs that we think will be on trend for 2018
Retro Packaging
Driven through nostalgia, old fashioned and retro packaging connects to the shopper seeking the individuality that existed in times of less competition as opposed to the mass-produced market. A product that is hand crafted becomes more authentic and hence more exclusive. Well thought out product packaging like the below allows the shopper a refreshing feeling of integrity with their buying choices.
Textured Packaging
Product packaging made with textured materials will instantly add a touch of quality to the product. Heavier materials and textured finishes increase perceived quality, even before contact is made with the packaging contents. The sense of touch engages shoppers into a deeper connection with the product.
Simplistic Packaging
With so many choices to make, packaging which gives the consumer a clear and succinct message, will get the attention of shoppers looking to make quick decisions. With less noise and excessive information on the box, buying choices are made easier and the consumer knows exactly what they are purchasing.
Established brands that have already identified themselves within a culture and many have embraced the minimalistic look. These brands combine a logo with an elegant classy packaging design, which is simply enough to grab the required attention.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
We have never lived in a more environmentally conscious time. Eco-friendly packaging made from sustainable and recycled sources are at the forefront of everyone’s minds, and this will only increase in importance throughout 2018.
Product packaging that depicts an environmentally friendly company will appeal to consumers. It provokes the feel-good factor and allows them to play a part in looking after our planet by purchasing from likeminded environmentally conscious sources.
Furthermore, product packaging that doubles up to provide the consumer an additional function, like this quirky pizza box we found online, is a clever way of making the packaging work harder and leave a longer lasting impression.
Bold & Colourful
In stark contrast to a lot of the packaging trends above, big bold and colourful packaging is making a come-back. This style of packaging design screams fun, individuality, creativeness and deliciousness. When a brand is prepared to shout loud and proud, this tells the customer that they are confident in their product. Clever use of colours throughout the packaging design, particularly in the food sector, can give a sense of the food inside and in turn increase the appetite appeal to the consumer.
Products are now judged by their packaging and the packaging design you decide upon will have an impact upon the end consumer.
Whatever packaging design you go for, it’s all about putting your individuality and personality onto the package to make sure you stand out from the crowd. The packaging of an online retailer must now reflect the consumer expectations of the same brand when bought in-store.
Whichever marketing strategy you decide to go with, get in touch for advice on the best packaging materials and styles to suit and enhance your chosen image. Packaging Supplies can produce product packaging in the form of printed sleeves, display boxes and retail ready packaging.  With extensive printing methods to suit your print design and your budget.
