3 Common Packaging Design Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make

In a time when cancel culture is prevalent and anything that makes its way to the internet is permanent, all it takes is one mistake for your business to be blacklisted by consumers. Especially when it comes to packaging design, something as small as mislabeling a product can cause a backlash.

Case in point, Tropicana’s 2009 attempt at redesigning their packaging was not only met with a negative response, but it pretty much caused an uproar among consumers, who complained that the new packaging didn’t evoke the same emotional response its predecessor did. Additionally, given that every aspect of the product was redesigned, the general consensus was that consumers didn’t even know that it was a Tropicana product anymore!

So it’s safe to say that, from a business perspective, changing your product’s package design needs to be a cautious endeavor. And you need to stay away from the following faux pas that may lead to big problems!

Misleading, Complex Packaging

Your product’s packaging communicates what it is and what it offers to consumers. But how do you deliver this message?

Take the picture below, for instance.

It’s clear from the packaging that the beverage offers lemon, lime and orange flavors. Now consider a design that has all kinds of fruits in the artwork. Complete with a chunky body text, such a design would be overwhelming and off-putting for consumers.

You must convey your message effectively by only offering the basics of the product, synthesizing them into a few elements. This is one of the reasons why most brands these days have sleek, clean packaging, almost bordering on minimalism.

Unnecessary Wastage and Unusable Material

The Earth has a waste problem; a problem that is estimated to grow by 70 percent by 2050, unless action is taken. The modern consumer base is acutely aware of how wasteful we are as a society. In response, many companies have now taken action, doing away with unnecessary packaging and added materials that would be thrown away.

Even though roomy, boxy packaging is a staple in many industries, like beauty and lifestyle, electronics and more, it’s a wrong move if you don’t consider modifying your packaging to something that is smaller, and yes, minimalist.

Incorrect Labeling

Sometimes, a wrong label prompts a humorous response, such as if a grammatical error occurs.

However, in some cases, incorrect labeling can be a major issue, especially if it occurs in a product for the consumer industry, like in food or beverages. As was the case where the British supermarket chain Aldi incorrectly labeled pork as halal. Additionally, incorrect labeling can even be dangerous; for example, if any pharmaceutical products are incorrectly labeled.

When creating any design, it’s important to do your research and consult with a professional design team so they can proofread and troubleshoot it. Only then will your product be safe for use.

Finding the Right Printer for Your Packaging

If you believe your packaging design is up to par, your next step should be to contact a company that offers premium quality containers and products, such as Premium Vials.

In addition to wholesale glass bottles, amber plastic bottles and even childproof dispensary bags among other products, Premium Vials provides label and screen printing services as well. Have us print your packaging. Choose only the best for your customers!