How to Design Sustainable Packaging That Stands Out on Shelves

More customers are becoming aware of the environmental issues we're all facing. With this in mind, companies need to design packaging that's not only sustainable but also stands out on the shelf. Reducing the environmental impact and attracting customers are important aspects of the design process. Here are some tips for developing visually appealing and sustainable packaging.

Choose Sustainable Materials

The first step in designing sustainable packaging is to choose materials that can be reused and recycled. Some options include recycled paper and cardboard, biodegradable plastics, and plant-based materials like bamboo or cornstarch.

The materials you choose depend on the product. For example, cornstarch can be used in bottles or loose-film packaging. Alternatively, biodegradable plastics are used in various disposable products such as straws, shopping bags and bottles. Most sustainable materials have multiple uses, so pick the one that works best for your product.

Less Design, More Impact 

Don’t overdo it with your design. Simple packaging can be just as eye-catching as more complex designs and is often more eco-friendly. So, avoid using excess packaging. Instead, use minimalist designs that communicate your brand's message effectively. Not all the space has to be filled with your brand logo and other information. It helps to use the blank space to draw consumers’ attention to the information you want them to see, such as your logo. Also, make it clear to the shopper that the product uses sustainable packaging.

Use Bright Colors

Simple designs can be effective, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use bright colors to help your packaging stand out on store shelves. Use natural dyes or inks made from plants to make sure your packaging is good for the environment and stands out. A unique logo and color scheme will automatically make your packaging recognizable to shoppers. Many brands use this approach effectively.

Use End-of-Life Packaging

When designing packaging that's easy to recycle or compost, consider using materials that are easily sorted and processed by recycling facilities. This dramatically reduces their environmental impact and encourages customers to choose your product over a similar one that uses less sustainable packaging.

Be Creative

Sustainable packaging doesn't have to mean boring packaging. By embracing your creativity, you can design unique packaging shapes to make your product stand out on shelves. If the packaging you choose relates to your product in some way or is something few other brands currently use, you can make this part of your unique selling point when promoting the product.

Another way to enhance your product's uniqueness is by incorporating file sharing solutions into your packaging. By including QR codes or NFC tags on your packaging, consumers can easily access digital content related to your product, such as user manuals, instructional videos or exclusive offers. This adds value to your product and reduces paper waste associated with traditional printed materials.

Explore Reusable Options

You might be surprised by the reusable options available for packaging. Refillable containers or packaging that can be repurposed after the product is used up are just a few options. The packaging could even be seen as an additional product itself. This adds extra value for the customer and provides further encouragement to purchase.

These tips can help companies design sustainable packaging that stands out on shelves and increases sales. This is in addition to reducing their environmental impact.

John Svoboda is the vice president of marketing for AXEL Go, one of the most secure file management and cloud storage solutions available to the public for file sharing solutions.