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The Power of Simultaneous Retail and Transport Packaging Development

 

Unlocking Supply Chain Efficiency

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In the typical product development lifecycle, packaging often takes a back seat, viewed as a last-minute task. However, neglecting packaging's integral role can lead to inefficiencies in space utilization and heightened product damage rates. To circumvent these issues, it's crucial to align the development of retail and transport packaging with the product itself.

 

Common Approaches to Packaging Development:

1. OEMs' Dual Design: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) create both retail and transport packaging structures, with brands merely adding graphics.

2. Retail vs. Transport Design: Brands design retail packaging but leave transport packaging to OEMs, potentially leading to suboptimal transport solutions.

3. Full Brand Control: Brands develop both retail and transport packaging, ensuring efficiency and performance while avoiding potential disconnects between teams.

 

Why Develop Retail and Transport Packaging Together?

• Avoiding Disconnects: Brands often overlook transport packaging until retail packaging is in production, risking misalignment with the brand's supply chain goals.

• OEM Risks: Leaving transport packaging to OEMs can be risky, as they may not be incentivized to create customized, sustainable solutions.

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Benefits of Optimizing Transport Packaging:

• Supply Chain Efficiency: Despite retail packaging's visibility, optimizing transport packaging is crucial for supply chain efficiency.

• Space Utilization: Inefficiencies in transport packaging can lead to damaged retail packaging and suboptimal space utilization, impacting container efficiency and sustainability.

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Tips for Developing Retail and Transport Packaging as a System:

• Early Integration: Start thinking about packaging during product development to make necessary adjustments without disrupting production.

• Streamlined Designs: Collaborate between retail and transport packaging teams to ensure seamless integration and efficient supply chain movement.

• Communication Breakdown: Maintain an open line of communication between packaging designers and product development teams to eliminate silos and promote collaboration.

 

Conclusion:

Elevate Your Brand through Holistic Packaging; Efficient and cohesive packaging development is not just about checking boxes; it's a strategic investment in the success of your product and brand. By treating retail and transport packaging as integral components developed alongside the product, you unlock the potential for a seamless supply chain, reduced damage rates, and increased sustainability.

 

Visit The Packaging lab for an in-depth exploration of efficient packaging development and to access our free report on sustainable packaging options. Elevate your brand by embracing a holistic approach to packaging that not only meets market demands but also contributes to a sustainable future.