The pandemic completely changed the way consumers purchase their necessities. Packaging is among the many industries that had to adjust their business model in the new normal.

Consumers expect their items to be presented and shipped in a way that makes it easier for them to sanitize. On the other hand, businesses want a packaging solution that can survive long-haul shipments, especially now that e-commerce has seen a coronavirus-led boom in online sales.

Apart from the typical design concerns – cost, convenience, durability – companies must address these three packaging requirements

1. Ship-Ready Design

Online shopping has been the lifeline of consumers amid the pandemic, moving astounding amounts of products through virtual platforms. As such, many product packaging will need redesigning, especially if they were originally intended for traditional retail selling.

Packaging designs should be optimized to prevent product damage and protect against tampering without increasing production and transport costs.

One emerging design trend is direct-to-consumer packaging, which is common in the beauty and cosmetic industry. The consumer’s order comes in primary and secondary packaging. For example, a moisturizer would come in a bottle (primary packaging) placed inside an easy-to-open box (secondary packaging), along with the other items ordered.

2. Agile Production

Production agility is another concern amid the pandemic, especially with necessities like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and household items. Businesses must find a way to quickly produce new packaging solutions to meet market demand without halting production.

Some companies turned to digital printing technologies to produce their new product packaging designs in a short period. Others partner with a folding and gluing machine manufacturing company to acquire a high-speed machine, which is ideal for large productions.

3. Hygienic Packaging Design and Material

Research shows that the coronavirus may remain on surfaces for days, depending on the material.  As such, businesses must choose materials for their packaging surfaces that can minimize the viability of the virus.

The study shows that the virus stays longer on solid, non-porous materials, such as plastic and steel. On the other hand, paper, fabrics, and porous surfaces decrease the survival time of the virus – making them better choices for packaging material.

Easy-open designs are also important for hygienic packaging. Consumers prefer packaging solutions that won’t require them to touch the item as much, minimizing the risk of virus transmission. Single-flap boxes, stand-up zip packs, and energy-gel pouches are some examples of easy opening packages.

4. Single-Use and Sustainability

New normal consumers no longer trust reusable bags and packaging. They don’t want to bring a potentially contaminated item inside their home. In the new normal, many people prefer single-use designs that are easily disposable. Items from outside should be thrown away immediately to get rid of the virus on the packaging.

Despite the growing preference for single-use packs, consumers still prefer brands with sustainability initiatives. Businesses can balance these two consumer demands by using recycled materials or biodegradable materials that don’t collect in landfills.

The standard for good packaging design will rise and change further in response to the new normal. Businesses will have to quickly produce winning packaging solutions, which address the need for sustainability, hygiene, and e-commerce readiness.

State-of-the-Art Packaging Equipment

With more than 50 years of manufacturing and research experience, SBL has a reputation for providing high-efficiency, economical, practical products. We offer a range of models for hot foil stamper, flatbed die-cutter, and folding and gluing machinery. Our products are suited for multiple applications, meeting the unique needs and requirements of different industries.

We also provide after-sale services for all our products, including repairs, in-depth diagnosis, and reconditioning.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.