What is the most effective way to determine the appropriate packaging size for your product?

Given that the packaging we are predominantly involved with is based around food and the need to maximize the safe shelf life of a particular food item, pack size although important, is not necessarily always achievable. Food packaging is multifaceted—it's about preserving products, captivating consumers, and embracing eco-consciousness. The sweet spot? Balancing freshness, shelf allure, and waste reduction. Striking this balance entails crafting packaging that snugly fits the product without wasteful excess, all while keeping an eye on environmental impact. This equilibrium is pivotal for both industry success and sustainable practices.

When determining the optimal size for your product packaging, it's crucial to conduct thorough research, especially if your product will be sharing retail shelf space with competitors. The size of your packaging not only affects its visibility and appeal on the shelf but also how it stacks up against similar products. A package that's too large may seem overpriced or unwieldy, while one that's too small could be overlooked. Striking the right balance in size can make your product more attractive to consumers, ensuring it stands out for the right reasons.

The packaging landscape in NZ is ever evolving, with a focused balance between food shelf life and eco-friendliness in both the materials used and the need to reduce food waste. Films for vacuum packing, tray lidding, skin packing, printed retail bags and pouches and bulk storage bags vary in use and material, with constant improvements in barrier properties and eco considerations. Bans on certain films also drives innovation towards biodegradable options, cutting plastic use by up to 90%. This shift maintains food safety while addressing environmental concerns. It's a positive stride, promising a more sustainable packaging future for NZ and beyond.

The first thing is to decide what price point the product can sit at in each sales channel, for a food item it could be FMCG or online, to third-party sales channels such as Amazon, Marketplace etc. A price point that encourages sales and is a reflection of the brand/Innovation and or competitive market. Some categories have a ceiling price that customers will pay. Then work through a margin tree to include the procurement of materials and packaging, production, and distribution. Add in sales and marketing promos too! And don't forget margins for listing products in the FMCH arena. With all that done you should land on the product packaging size you need to be profitable!

For businesses that sell directly to consumers (DTC), packaging size takes on an additional layer of complexity. Here, the focus should also include considering the logistics of shipping. It's important to optimize package size for the most cost-effective shipping rates, balancing between protective packaging and minimizing unused space. This involves understanding the pricing structures of various carriers, as many charge based on dimensions and weight. Efficiently designed packaging can lead to significant savings in shipping costs, which can either improve your margins or allow you to pass on these savings to your customers, enhancing their overall purchasing experience.

In my experience, there is a delicate balance between packaging for a safe extended shelf life of food lines and the need for a great shelf-appeal, or retail presentation. Often food packaging can only be tested by undertaking controlled shelf-life trials and this can be done in house to a degree, but it is always a better option to get professionals involved. The methods used in food production, from cooking to handling and precise temperature control is just as important as the packaging used, to ensure the best possible results. Cook Chill technology, which ensures safe and approved practices are used throughout the entire process is a great way to make a product great.

Best in class ?? is the best way ever, we shouldn't reinvent the wheel, we can utlize the learned lessons and consider all the aspects in your decision

1.The target customer should be considered. 2.The weight of the product. 3. Usability of the product. 4. Considering customer feedback.

Additionally, sustainable and eco-friendly packaging options are increasingly important to consumers. Opting for packaging that minimizes waste not only appeals to environmentally conscious customers but can also reduce shipping costs. Overall, the right packaging size is a strategic decision that impacts both shelf presence and shipping efficiency. Balancing these considerations effectively can significantly influence your product’s market success.