Packaging Research and Discovery

Packaging research involves fieldwork and discovery to learn what packaging solutions other companies are using and what kind of packaging your customers value. Discover what’s working for industry leaders and competitors, and how you might improve or customize those strategies to maximize your own brand’s potential. Does your target demographic prioritize luxury? Sustainability? Originality? Impak Reatail’s research team will identify your customers’ needs and wants so that you’re packaging exceeds expectations and creates memorable unboxing experiences that induce brand loyalty and drive sales. 

Many businesses don’t have the resources to spend on packaging research and development internally—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to take advantage of its benefits. From fieldwork and discovery to material development, global sourcing, and cost optimization, our R&D team puts the industry’s best technology and processes to work for your retail business as part of our packaging development services. 

Areas of Focus for Packaging Research & Discovery 

With years of experience in the field, our research team knows what works and what doesn’t when it comes to packaging that respects your budget while also having optimal customer appeal. We stay on top of industry trends with a focus on identifying cost-effective opportunities at every stage of the process, from design to materials sourcing to prototyping to production. Areas of focus for fieldwork and discovery include: 

• Materials science to find sustainable, durable, and cost-effective materials.  
• Design aesthetics to enhance both functionality and visual appeal.  
• Smart packaging innovations incorporate tech-drive elements like QR codes and augmented reality. 
• Sustainability alternatives including biodegradable and recyclable materials, as well as identifying redundancies in packaging designs and supply chains.  
• Regulatory adherence to ensure that all packaging meets the latest regulations set forth by governing bodies. 

What Packaging Research and Development (R&D) Can Do to Benefit Your Brand 

From sustainable materials research to design breakthroughs and cost-savings innovations, dedicated packaging R&D can lead to several benefits for your brand. Below, we cover just some of them. 

1. Enhanced Brand Perception 

• Distinctiveness: Through R&D, your brand can access (and create from scratch) unique packaging designs that set you apart from the competition. 
• Messaging: Well-researched packaging can effectively convey your brand’s values, story, and promises, fostering deeper connections with consumers. 

2. Improved Consumer Experience 

• Functionality: Dedicated R&D often leads to innovative packaging solutions that are easier to open, store, or reseal. This improves sustainability and leads to a better unboxing experience overall. 
• Information Accessibility: Advanced packaging might include QR codes or augmented reality features, offering consumers more information or interactive experiences. 

3. Reduced Expenses, Increased Sales 

• Cost-Efficiency: Investigating new materials or designs can lead to reduced material usage, resulting in cost savings. Likewise, supply chain R&D can save on logistics costs in production, shipping, and everything in between. 
• Increased Sales: Attractive and innovative packaging can attract more customers, leading to higher sales. 

4. Sustainability and Environmental Conservation 

• Eco-Friendly Materials: R&D promotes the discovery and use of sustainable materials, particularly in the realm of paper and bioplastics, reducing the environmental impact. 
• Waste Reduction: Biodegradable packaging research, low-material initiatives, and improved shipping logistics can lead to designs that utilize less material or are more easily recyclable, contributing to reduced waste. 

5. Product Protection and Safety 

• Durability: R&D ensures the development of packaging that adequately protects products during transit, storage, and display. 
• Compliance: Continual packaging research ensures that packaging meets all safety and regulatory standards, minimizing risks associated with recalls or legal challenges. 

6. Adaptability to Market Trends 

• E-Commerce Optimizations: As online shopping grows, R&D focuses on packaging that’s designed to stay safe during shipping, ensuring products arrive in optimal condition. 
• Personalization: With evolving printing technologies, R&D can pave the way for personalized or limited-edition packaging, catering to modern consumer demands. 

Sustainable Packaging Research and Beyond – Choose Impak Retail 

Impak Retail combines over 45+ years of industry experience with state-of-the-art technology and robust logistics networks to innovate at every step of the packaging development pipeline.  

When you work with us, you’ll get access to solutions that will not only save you money—but secure you more customers, too. Ready to take advantage of our full suite of industry-leading packaging development services? Contact us to get started!