Question

Topic: Other

Creative Product Packaging - Ideas And Resources

Posted by Theresa Hannen on 1/6/2016 at 3:26 PM ET 500 Points
We are looking for new, creative product packaging ideas for a line of power tool accessories such as hole saws and reciprocating saw blades. We have already taken a number of steps including find five packaging universities to potentially work with as student projects, locating websites like 99designs for possible projects, and working with existing vendors (who mostly want to push what they have rather than than something new). We are now considering a packaging consultant. I'm not sure if we will go through an organization like IOPP (Institute of Packaging Professionals) or a company that claims to specialize in packaging consulting. We are focused on a new package that would have retail appeal but want the consultant involved to understand we care about the labor, packaging cost, and possible machinery needs as well.
QUESTIONS - Does anyone who has worked with packaging consultants have advice about what to look for? Or avoid? Do you have companies/organizations you would recommend?
We have used consultants in other areas and have had mixed results from wonderful to horrible. This question is part of our foot work to make sure our packaging consultant is on the 'wonderful' end of the spectrum. Thank you!
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RESPONSES

  • Posted by Mike Steffes on 1/7/2016 at 9:31 AM Accepted
    You may be overthinking packaging for hole saws and jig saw blades. There's often little correlation between product sales and creative packaging awards.
    You don't mention that you have some huge technological innovation, therefore, going too much beyond customers' comfort zone, as far as what they are used to in packaging for those types of product, may actually decrease sales volume (being too different, an outlier ...raising questions).
    Check out a few big brand hardware stores, some major big box retailers, and a few high end specialty tool vendors for the existing packaging. Go with a good leading edge packaging style. Spend some money on market planning and packaging design "details" such as colors, look/layout, and package copy. Hire experienced sales or product placement people if you don't have them now. You could be selling (and internalized the resulting knowledge) before the committee would have decided how to handle the consultant's final report.
    Yes, it is tough to find a good consultant, and even good consultants can have an occasional bad project. There is little anyone can do to positively ensure you a breakthrough consultation result. I am arguing that is likely more profitable for your company not to attempt breaking new packaging ground in this particular case.
  • Posted by scarfnerd on 1/8/2016 at 3:00 PM Member
    Who is your target audience?
  • Posted by Theresa Hannen on 1/8/2016 at 3:36 PM Author
    Our distributor is a big box hardware store selling mostly to contractors but also to the general public. They like to be wowed at line reviews but of course the price should be lower - LOL. Thanks for the comments Mike as well. I've never asked a question here before but I'll be sure to accept your response when this gets closed out. Thanks much -
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