From bulky cereal boxes to sleek jars of organic honey, goods come in various types of packages. But, as consumers become more and more concerned with their environmental impact and start paying more attention to how products are packed, we can expect to see a shift towards sustainable packaging.
Enter flexible packaging.
Flexible packaging refers to any package or part of a package whose shape can be altered. Because it uses non-rigid materials, this type of packaging is easily adjustable and can offer more customization. It can be an excellent choice for industries that require more flexibility, such as food and beverages, healthcare, or personal care.
In fact, according to The Flexible Packaging Association’s (FPA) 2020 State of the Flexible Packaging Industry Report, flexible packaging represents about 19% of the total $177 billion U.S. packaging industry and it’s on the rise. The industry has shown steady growth in the past two decades and it’s expected to increase at a rate of 3.9% by 2023.
And, it’s not just because consumers are starting to opt for products that use flexible packaging (although, that’s definitely a big motivator.) But, businesses are also beginning to realize the value this type of packaging can bring.
Flexible Packaging Is More Convenient
Because it’s non-rigid and easy to bend and change its shape, flexible packaging is becoming the go-to option for consumers who are on the go. This type of packaging makes products easy to grab, easy to eat, and easy to store. Compared to a bulky box of cookies that take a lot of space, flexible packaging is more convenient, practical, and helps consumers save time and space.
Extended Shelf Life
High-barrier films and airtight seals can help businesses that produce highly perishable goods like cheese extend the shelf life of their products. Because the products are kept safe from oxygen and moisture, they also stay fresher for a long time.
Reduced Transportation and Storage Costs
Transporting and storing goods is one of the major expenses businesses face and most are looking for ways to reduce this cost. Due to its lightweight and flexible properties, flexible packaging takes less space when compared to other types of packaging, such as cardboard, jars, or plastic bottles. Less weight and less space mean less can lead to a reduction in the number of truckloads needed to ship the products. It can also reduce the store requirements and help businesses save money in the long term.
Are You Keeping up with the Trends
Reports show that more and more businesses will turn towards flexible packaging as they are beginning to understand the benefits it can bring. As such, they will start looking for manufacturers that are able to meet their needs.
At TGW, we offer sophisticated flexible packaging equipment that can help manufacturers keep up with the trends and attract more clients.