Whether you're the new kid on the block or a household name, never underestimate the importance of the right packaging. From protecting fragile items to shipping anything from clothing to pet food to drinks, packaging is key to getting your products from your warehouse to consumers. Without the right packaging, there's always the chance that your products won't arrive in perfect condition, and this can greatly impact your customers' overall experience and repeat purchasing behaviour. A whopping 77% of consumers would recommend a brand to a friend after just one single positive experience (Temkin Group, cited in Forbes), so it's all about finding the right fit for you, your products and choosing a packaging supplier near you that you know can deliver on your individual packaging needs.

So, we can see packaging is important but who do you turn to for help? With lots of companies on the web offering packaging solutions, why should you look close to home? We've put together seven key questions you should ask about your packaging supplier to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck.

1.	Can they tailor to my brand?

In business, having a strong brand is a big deal, so be sure to explore the various bespoke options from different packaging suppliers. They might vary, but many suppliers offer a range of solutions that can encapsulate any brand, product, or target market. Take a bit of time to find a supplier that can create packaging to fit your individual needs and style.

Getting your packaging tailormade is like giving your brand its own signature. Match the colours, style, and message of your business to create a brand image that sticks. This personal touch lets you tell your brand story, boosts product recognition, and forms a tight bond with your target audience. Whether you're grabbing eyeballs on screens or standing out on the shelves, find a supplier that literally thinks outside the box!

Bespoke packaging goes beyond just looking good - it creates a positive and unforgettable experience for customers, boosting their loyalty and bringing them back for more. During the purchasing process, consumers attach considerable importance to both the packaging itself and the unboxing experience. A notable 49.6% of UK shoppers

recognise the significance of these elements in influencing their buying decisions (Internet Retailing). So don't underestimate the power of your packaging; it's your chance to show customers that you really care about what you're doing and why you're the brand they want.

2.	Can they back up their claims?

According to Mintel, sustainability is no longer considered a selling point, but an essential element of survival, driving brands to continuously innovate and push the boundaries of what's possible - and what's necessary. When looking for a local packaging supplier, choose one that gives complete traceability all through the manufacturing process, so you can be sure of their green credentials.

With 75% of consumers more likely to purchase brands that offer planet friendly products, and 49% stating they would pay more for sustainable packaging and delivery (Deloitte Global), knowing a supplier's sustainability information means you can leverage it and promote your environmental practices to an ever-growing eco-conscious market.

Consumers expect high-quality packaging and 61% of them believe they should no longer have to think about sustainability while shopping, with 94% saying 'it's a brand's responsibility to create products that are not harmful to the Earth' (Deloitte Global). At Saxon Packaging (part of the Smurfit Kappa Group), we agree and we're here to help our local businesses in the East Anglia, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex areas better support consumers, to benefit business growth and the environment as a whole.

It's about giving your customers what they really want and doing the right thing for the next generation who don't want to see today's waste lingering in landfills in the future. Show your customers that you care about your business's impact on the planet, and they'll thank you for it by returning again and again and spreading the word about your brand in their social circles.

3.	Will they leave me waiting?

Delays and disruptions can be a big headache for a business, especially when making sure your customers get what they ordered when they expect it. Considering that 1 in 3 consumers part ways with a beloved brand after just one disappointing experience (PWC), when choosing a packaging supplier near you, be sure to choose one who understands your product's process and journey and who actively works on avoiding potential supply chain challenges. This will help you to consistently meet deadlines for a seamless operation that's free from disruption, giving your customers what they want, when they want it.

4.	Do they dot the i's and cross the t's?

Finding a packaging supplier that not only complies with industry standards but also ignites excitement for quality assurance is crucial. The impact of your packaging supplier on operational efficiency, especially in the fulfilment process, cannot be overstated.

Quality assurance becomes the driving force behind ensuring your packaging meets the highest standards for optimal use. Imagine the ripple effect - a lack of control measures could disrupt the harmonious flow, jeopardising OTIF (on time in full) delivery and the overall dependability of your packaging solutions.

Sticking to packaging standards shows a local supplier's unwavering dedication to providing solutions that are not just good but outstanding. It's also a good idea to read reviews and awe-inspiring success stories - to give you an insight into the quality of the products they produce. You may even stumble across other local businesses who are already using that packaging supplier!

5.	Will I get a return on my investment?

Find the right supplier and they'll add value to your business in ways that go beyond the packaging itself. From making your supply chain work smarter not harder, reducing waste, cutting the cost of returns that result from damaged products and much more, it's about the value your supplier adds and the words of wisdom they're willing to share to support your business growth.

For example, is the packaging the right size, is there wastage and do your products suffer breakages in transit? Consider if the supplier works with you to reduce labour

costs by designing packaging that's quicker to assemble. By weighing all these factors, you're better equipped to make an informed decision that goes beyond cost. A great example is Hattingley Valley's quick assembly packaging solution that saved space, lowered costs and reduced waste which you can read more about here.

6.	Will they be on hand when I need help?

Despite all your best efforts, sometimes there's no knowing when a problem will crop up in business, and, though packaging problems are unlikely, it's good to know that support is there should you need it, when you need it. It's important to have good communication with your local packaging supplier; you need to know that someone is there to address your concerns promptly and that someone will get back to you quickly if you have any questions.

The right packaging partner will keep you updated on the latest trends and insights - you can read ours here - and communicate with you regularly to help you stay ahead of competitors. You should be able to hand your packaging requirements over to a local supplier, knowing that your needs are in capable hands and that they're only on the other end of the phone or email should you need help. Plus, if they're just down the road from you, then you could call in and chat through your challenges face-to-face over a cuppa.

7.	Should I go with my gut?

Whilst the product might tick all the right boxes, ensuring your chosen packaging supplier aligns with your core business values, culture and future trajectories are essential to ensuring a blossoming partnership. Choosing a local packaging supplier isn't a short-term endeavour but the start of a new chapter for your business, so you have to feel comfortable, looked after and supported. You should feel like part of a team, all working towards the same goal for your business and customers.

In a nutshell

We hope this has helped in your journey of choosing your ideal packaging supplier, and you can see it definitely involves more than a quick Google search. Perhaps you have chosen a packaging supplier near you already but are realising it may be time to switch as you recognise some things no longer align, or it is your first time choosing a supplier and you can't afford to get it wrong. After all, the incorrect packaging supplier really can have a detrimental effect on your business success and bottom line.

At Saxon Packaging we have full confidence in being the packaging partner of choice and have many customers who we have supported in their growth journey. If you're searching for a new packaging supplier local to you, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we could work together. And, as we're part of the Smurfit Kappa Group,

it means as a business we are local to Glasgow, Leeds, London, Devon, and all across the UK. Whether you've got your packaging plans all taped up or are still figuring out the best way to bundle your needs, our passionate team is ready to help you start the next chapter of your packaging journey!

(C) 2024 Electronic News Publishing, source ENP Newswire