The packaging industry is one of the largest in the UK and the appearance of a product can play a key role in determining its level of success. Careful and detailed planning must be given to every aspect of your product; from the brochure design to the product’s packaging itself.

Selling the kind of product which offers a service to the consumer will only be successful if it appears attractive and eye-catching enough to draw the consumer to your product or service. Everything from the concept to the finished product including printing, packaging and all marketing communications need to be of a very high standard.

Here is a shortlist of just some of the things that the correct packaging design can do for your product:
● Your product can become instantly recognisable using the correct packaging. Your brand will become easily identifiable.
● Your personalised packaging will differentiate your product from that of your competitors. The chosen colour and design of your packaging will add to the uniqueness of your product.
● Product packaging provides customers with valued information. For example, effective packaging will provide them with an image of the product and give them detailed guidelines as regards instructions for its use.
● The product packaging will be the final thing the consumer sees about your product before deciding whether to purchase it or not. It is therefore essential that your packaging is of a high standard and does not let your product down.

In most cases, packaging works out to be 10% of the retail cost of the product. However, this percentage can sometimes escalate in such areas as gift items, electronic devices and cosmetic products. The cost of product packaging is returned through its effect on the increase in sales. Attractive and effective packaging might just be the determining factor when it comes to that all important point of sale.
Below is a number of factors to keep in mind for when designing your packaging:

● As well as packaging looking appealing and attractive, it should be functional. In order for it to last the test of time, packaging needs to protect your product and limit the amount of damage and deterioration that may occur.

● Transporting your product can become an issue if your packaging is not durable enough to withstand the process.

● It should be as environmentally friendly as it can be.

● Ultimately, your packaging should stand out and be of a higher standard from that of your competitors. It must appeal to consumers and entice them to choose your product over theirs.

● The packaging should be user-friendly and be easy to open and simple to use. It should aim to make things as easy and as stress-free for the consumer.

● It should grab the attention of your target market and this should be kept in mind the whole way through the design process. Understanding your target market and knowing what they want is crucial.

● As with everything, packaging trends are constantly evolving. Keeping up to date with the new trends is essential in order to give your product the competitive edge.

Advanced Dynamics Ltd has played a leading role in the labelling and packaging industry for over 100 years. We offer clients a service that is unrivaled in the field of labelling and packaging as we have gained invaluable experience and knowledge that allow us to cater for our clients every need.

The media would have us believe that our nation’s pubs are a dying breed. However, statistic after statistic regarding the supposedly dire situation does not tell the whole story. For although there are undoubtedly issues in certain areas and with certain establishments, the Brits’ thirst for good quality public houses has been far from quenched.

If there is an issue surrounding pub closure, it is far more to do with the changing demands of the customer, a need for strategic recruitment and recognition that pub food can make or break a business. Although there is always a time and a place for the so-called ‘old man pub’, many clients both demand and expect far more from their local watering hole. In a competitive business where some are willing to travel for miles to sample local real ales, gourmet food or unique architectural features, landlords and owners would do well to consider whether their premises is providing what the public demand.

The gastro pub is alive and kicking

Newly released data confirms that with more than a billion pub meals served in a single year, food is a key element to avoiding ruin and increasing profits. But how can a pub successfully introduce food into their everyday operations?

Indeed, how can they know what the menu should offer? An essential starting point is establishing a style and target audience for the pub grub on offer. This is a difficult balancing act as no landlord wants to alienate existing custom, but nor should they shy away from attracting new clientele. Analysing success stories in the local area and utilising the knowledge of those who already frequent the bar can really help in offering the right menu for the right business.

Perfect personnel creates potential profit

In addition to deciding on a style and direction for a menu, a realistic financial plan must be put in place. Often, old-fashioned pub kitchens will be irrelevant to today’s requirements and if refurbishment is required, the cost must be factored in. The cost of any changes in staffing must also be addressed. As a rule of thumb, a pub’s wage allowance will be in the area of 20-25% of overall turnover excluding VAT. Employing a qualified chef and recruiting experienced waiting and catering staff should be a key priority when budgeting for introducing food. Scrimping here will only produce problems in the future.

There is no doubt that pub based profits are not dead in the water. For many, their local remains the focus and lifeblood of the community. Now is the ideal time to take a close look and ensure that the future of the Great British pub is made safe and secure for generations to come.