Packaging Design: Why It Matters to Shoppers

Published on May 21, 2025

by Yoav

Have you ever stopped to think about why you choose one product over another when you’re shopping? Is it the brand? The price? Or is it something as simple as the packaging design? Believe it or not, packaging design plays a significant role in not only attracting shoppers but also influencing their purchase decisions. In fact, a study by the Paper and Packaging Board found that 72% of consumers said that packaging design influences their purchasing decisions. So, let’s delve deeper into why packaging design matters to shoppers.Packaging Design: Why It Matters to Shoppers

The Power of Visual Appeal

First impressions matter, and when it comes to making a purchase, the visual appeal of a product’s packaging plays a crucial role. Have you ever picked up two products that served the same purpose, but you ended up choosing the one with the nicer packaging? This is because packaging design serves as a key differentiator between similar products. It grabs the attention of shoppers, making them stop and take a closer look at the product.

The use of colors, graphics, and imagery can make a product stand out on a crowded shelf and instantly catch the eye of potential customers. A visually appealing packaging design conveys a message of high quality and value, making shoppers more likely to pick it up and consider purchasing it.

Communicating the Brand’s Message

Packaging design is an excellent opportunity for brands to communicate their message to shoppers. The design elements, such as colors, fonts, and images, play a vital role in conveying the brand’s values, personality, and promise. For example, eco-friendly brands often use green and natural imagery in their packaging design to emphasize their commitment to sustainability.

Additionally, packaging design presents an opportunity for brands to tell their story and connect with shoppers on an emotional level. By using storytelling on packaging, brands can create a deeper connection with their audience and stand out from competitors.

Standing Out in a Saturated Market

The retail market is highly competitive, and shoppers are often overwhelmed with a plethora of options when they’re out shopping. In such a saturated market, packaging design plays a crucial role in capturing a shopper’s attention and standing out from the competition.

The right packaging design can create a lasting impression on a shopper’s mind, leading to brand recognition and recall. This is especially important for new or lesser-known brands that are trying to make a mark in the market. A unique and eye-catching packaging design can make a brand stand out and pique the curiosity of potential customers, leading to increased sales.

Reflecting Product Value and Quality

Packaging design not only attracts shoppers but also reflects the value and quality of a product. A visually appealing and well-crafted packaging design conveys that the product inside is also of high quality. On the other hand, a poorly designed or unattractive packaging may give the impression that the product inside is of low quality.

Moreover, packaging design can also provide essential information about the product, such as its ingredients, benefits, and usage instructions. This helps shoppers make informed decisions and builds trust with the brand.

The Unboxing Experience

In today’s digital age, the experience of unboxing a product can make or break a brand’s reputation. With the rise of unboxing videos and social media, packaging design has become more critical than ever. By creating an aesthetically pleasing and memorable unboxing experience, brands can not only leave a lasting impression on the shopper but also increase the chances of them sharing it with their followers.

In Conclusion

Packaging design is an essential aspect of marketing for any product. It not only attracts shoppers but also conveys a brand’s message, stands out in a crowded market, reflects product value and quality, and creates a memorable unboxing experience. In today’s competitive retail landscape, it’s crucial for brands to invest time and effort into creating a visually appealing and effective packaging design that resonates with shoppers and drives sales.