Product development is a process. From the idea stage to testing the concept, to actual production, shipping, and ultimately to getting the product into the customer’s hands. It’s an exciting process. For many entrepreneurs and business owners, especially small and new business owners, rolling out a new product is a dream come true in the making.
One thing that gets overlooked in that planning process is the packaging. The box that someone opens someday just isn’t as fun to think about in the beginning. But at almost every stage of the game, thinking about packaging can impact the success of your product launch and sales success.
At Ashtonne Packaging, we like to be a part of your product development process from the very beginning. Here are seven unique ways to think about packaging throughout the product planning process to add to the excitement of your great idea:
Product Concept and Design:
Perhaps your product has accessory items that will go with it. Maybe your product will require a little bit of cushion and care. Or, perhaps your competition has a package that works or doesn’t. It’s early, but take down some notes on how packaging can actually improve your product’s impact right from the start.
Market Research:
Packaging partners who have a track record in business partnerships to bring products to
market know some things about what has and hasn’t worked in the past. Some of the best market research you can do is to look at case studies and real market examples from established packaging companies.
Budgeting:
It’s important to know what you’re getting into. As soon as your product starts to take shape, start thinking about what packaging you’re going to need to meet industry standards and exceed those of your customers. At Ashtonne Packaging, we like to plan for no surprises, especially when it comes to budgeting later in the game.
Materials:
It’s never too late to start thinking about environmental sustainability, product protection,
shipping, and cost-effectiveness. At each step along the planning process, plan for logistics to make it happen.
Target audience:
Different stores have different standards. E-commerce unboxing can differ from in-store product display. Planning for packaging can actually help you decide how and where you will best be able to sell your product.
Logistics:
You’ll need to be thinking about where you’ll store your inventory, how you’ll fulfill orders, and how you’ll ship it when it’s sold. Ashtonne Packaging performs warehousing and logistics for its best customers because a strong packaging strategy is about more than putting something in a box. It’s about making sure a customer takes it out of one!
Launch strategy:
This one is obvious, and it is where most new product manufacturers start to first think about packaging. As we’ve said earlier, this may be a bit too late to plan the most efficient and effective product rollout.
From a new idea to the next expansion, Ashtonne Packaging has been helping both large and small businesses launch new products and expand product lines with product packaging and display strategy, design, and development for over 15 years. Call us at Ashtonne Packaging 877-522-6937 for expert advice and services, and a true partner towards your success, a reliable partner who cares about your business.