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Manufacturers and designers are shaking up standard packaging conventions on all fronts, but what does this look like for pet food packaging? Howard Wright, Executive Creative and Strategic Director EMEA & Canada at Equator Design, directs us towards the trends we should keep an eye on when feeding our furry friends.
In recent years, the pet food industry has witnessed a remarkable evolution not only in the formulation of nutritious meals for our furry companions but also in the way these products are presented to consumers. Pet food packaging has become an integral part of brand identity, sustainability initiatives, and customer convenience. Let’s delve into the exciting trends that are shaping the future of pet food packaging.
Sustainable Packaging
As sustainability continues to be a driving force in consumer choices, pet food manufacturers are embracing eco-friendly packaging solutions. This includes materials like biodegradable plastics, compostable packaging, and recyclable materials. Brands are not only meeting consumer demand for sustainability but also aligning with their own commitment to environmental responsibility.
Transparent and Informative Labelling
Pet owners are increasingly interested in understanding the nutritional content of their pets’ food. Clear and transparent packaging, coupled with detailed labelling, allows consumers to make informed choices about the products they purchase. Brands are including information about ingredients, sourcing, and even the specific health benefits of their pet food.
Innovative Designs for Convenience
Convenience is key, and pet food packaging is reflecting this trend. Resealable bags, single-serve pouches, and easy-pour containers are gaining popularity. These designs not only make it more convenient for pet owners to store and serve the food but also contribute to keeping the product fresh for longer periods.
Personalisation and Customisation
The pet industry has recognised the importance of individuality in pets’ diets. Customised packaging, whether in terms of portion sizes or tailored nutritional formulations, is on the rise. This trend allows pet owners to cater to the specific needs and preferences of their pets, fostering a sense of care and consideration.
Incorporation of Technology
Smart packaging is entering the pet food arena. QR codes and augmented reality features on packaging enable consumers to access additional information, such as feeding guidelines, health tips, and even interactive content. This tech-savvy approach enhances the overall customer experience and engagement.
Bold and Vibrant Designs
Eye-catching and visually appealing packaging designs are becoming increasingly popular. Bold colours, unique shapes, and engaging graphics help products stand out on the shelves and create a lasting impression. Brands are recognising the importance of aesthetics in attracting pet owners and are investing in creative packaging strategies.
Health and Wellness Messaging
Pet owners are increasingly conscious of their pets’ health and well-being. Packaging is now being used as a platform to communicate a brand’s commitment to pet health. Labels highlighting natural ingredients, absence of additives, and other health-related features are becoming commonplace.
The pet food packaging landscape is undergoing a transformative journey, with sustainability, transparency, convenience, personalisation, technology, and aesthetics at its core. As the industry continues to evolve, these trends are not just responding to consumer demands but are also shaping the future of how we care for our beloved pets. The intersection of innovation and responsibility in pet food packaging is not just a trend but a reflection of the evolving relationship between humans and their animal companions.
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Pet food manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to improve their product and packaging in order to better suit the needs of pet owners. There are many trends emerging in the industry, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with what is happening.
2020 saw the COVID-19 pandemic force people to stay at home, sparking a rise in both e-commerce sales and larger packages of pet food. The convenience that comes with buying online for bulk orders only fuels this growth as owners focus on ensuring their pets’ health is top priority!
And it’s true what they say about pet food. People love their pets, but not at the expense of quality or sustainability! And with a growing number of people who want only natural and organic options for both cat foods as well as dog treats (grain-free especially), it’s no wonder that these two trends continue to rise in popularity among animal enthusiasts.
Since pet owners want premium products, it only makes sense that they would want premium packaging too. According to a study from globalmonitor.us (Pet Food Packaging Market Trends, Statistics, Growth, and Forecasts (globalmonitor.us), premium packaging plays a key role in appealing to those consumers seeking the best in dog and cat food. So, as you package your next pet food product, consider these top six must-haves to gain consumer attention and sales.
Keeping pet food and treats fresh should be top of mind when creating the perfect pet package. Focus on using high-quality films with barrier protection to do just that, as well as using a reseal zipper. This allows consumers to securely close the bag or pouch in between feedings, which helps to keep air out and freshness in, extending the shelf life of the product inside. Plus, did you know that consumers prefer the convenience of reseal packaging?
2Focus on using high-quality films with barrier protection to do just that, as well as using a reseal zipper.2. Choose convenience.
Speaking of convenience, consider adding convenience features to your pouch like a stand-up bottom, handles for easy carrying, and easy open tear notches, in addition to the aforementioned reseal zippers. Consider also that consumers love pouches for their lightweight, shatterproof quality, as well as easy portability.
3. Use a see-through window.
Consider adding a transparent window to your pet food pouch or bag so consumers to see the treats inside before they purchase. These windows are a popular choice to showcase what’s inside, and further support your claims on the label of the good stuff inside.
Use a see-through window4. Go for the green.
According to the study from globalmonitor.us, sustainability is a growing concern among many pet owners, impacting purchasing decisions. Consider using recyclable or compostable films, or post-consumer recycled content in your package to lessen your environmental impact. Also consider how utilizing digitally printed flexible packaging can lower your company’s carbon footprint. And lastly, did you know that using eco-friendly packaging can help to set your brand apart? Many packagers today are using sustainable packaging as a way to differentiate themselves from competitors, as sustainability plays a growing role in branding and consumer perception.
5. Opt for high-impact graphics.
Since branding and consumer perception are so important, consider how great graphics can help to get your brand noticed. Whether it’s bold and playful, or simple and clean, you know how impactful a great design can be. Use unique and creative artwork, clear images, and vibrant colors to set yourself apart from the competition. Did you know that with pouches you get 360° of space to create your design and tell the brand story? Since you’re not limited to a label, you can use every inch of your package to really capture consumer attention.
6. Choose custom pouches.
Fully branded, custom pouches speak volumes for your brand. And using high-quality materials with great graphics assures pet owners of the quality of the product inside. Since they look and feel premium, packagers today are using custom packaging like pouches to justify charging higher prices for their pet food and treats.
Did you know that according to the study mentioned above, flexible packaging is dominating the pet food market? It’s actually not surprising as the package type satisfies all of the six trends mentioned here, and more.
We know you care about your pets like they are family, and we want to make sure their needs are met. That’s why ePac created pet food packages that have all the convenience features included for a happy customer-pet experience. If you need custom packaging, or just want more information on how to create the perfect package for your pet, contact us today!
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