Flexible, sustainable, reusable packaging is a great way for companies to save money and protect the planet at the same time. Flexible packaging provides additional space-saving benefits, with less wasted space and the ability to collapse when empty.
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers
Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) are nonrigid storage containers typically made of a flexible type of fabric that are designed for the storage and/or transportation of flowable, dry products such as plastic granules, fertilizer, and sand. They can vary in size but are typically used for bulk packaging in large, jumbo sizes for industrial uses. FIBCs are completely collapsible, which makes them easy to store and transport when not in use.
Filling FIBCs
FIBCs may utilize a variety of filling options with different types of closures available. Depending on the contents, sealed tops may be required for products subject to moisture damage. Top closures may include something simple like a drawstring to confine the product while still allowing airflow or a cone top to allow additional filling of materials that may settle over time.FIBC tops and closures can be customized based on various filling systems and shipping requirements.
FIBC Discharge
The proper FIBC discharge method should be designed to improve product handling efficiency, saving the end-user time and money. Bottom discharge spouts can be handy for customers that plan to reuse their bags. Spouts can be designed to match equipment specifications and cleanliness requirements.
FIBCs vs. IBCs
Both flexible intermediate bulk containers and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) provide storage and transportation solutions for many industrial applications. There are several differences between these two types of industrial bulk containers, however, and the type chosen depends on the product and the primary purpose. Some of the most important differences are that IBCs are made of rigid plastics and cannot be collapsed, and they are meant to store mainly liquids or some semi-solids. FIBCs are not designed to hold liquids.
Properties of Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs)
Nonrigid, flexible and collapsible storage containers
Designed for powders and semisolids, cement, sand, etc…
Not designed to store liquids
UN approved to hold hazardous materials
Produced with woven plastics such as polypropylene
Easy to move when collapsed
Easy to store and stack when not filled
Takes up minimal storage space when not in use
Can be reusable and recyclable
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
Rigid, non-collapsible, solid storage containers
Designed to hold semi-solids and liquids
UN approved to hold hazardous materials.
Produced with rigid plastics, typically high-density polyethylene, HDPE
Typically moved with industrial equipment
Recyclable and reusable
Requires storage space when not in use
May include various accessories and attachments such as nozzles and a steel protective cage
Consulting with an experienced contract packaging provider can help companies understand their many options for packaging materials and services.
Contract Packaging, Wrapping, and Bag Filling Solutions
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is an industry-leading contract packaging provider that has been helping companies to improve packaging processes for more than 80 years. We offer a variety of quality packaging services, such as various secondary packaging solutions, bag filling, repackaging, flexible packaging, shrink wrapping, and palletizing. PPS provides packaging solutions for companies of all sizes, including small businesses, OEMs, and Fortune 100 manufacturers.
PPS offers the capacity, resources, staff, and experience to provide high-quality packaging solutions for all types of materials. We are set apart from other packaging providers as a fully sustainable, not-for-profit organization, investing in our staff and company to continually provide high-tech, high-quality packaging solutions. Contact us to learn more about our many production solutions, including auto bagging and flexible packaging services.
The pharmaceutical industry is one of the largest industries and major contributor to the national GDP, and is also more emission-intensive than the automotive industry according to some studies.
Challenges of the Pharmaceutical Packaging Market.
The pharmaceutical packaging market must address many considerations that are not applicable to other packaging markets. Packaging processes typically include priorities such as aesthetic appeal and user experience, although the pharmaceutical market packaging market must consider additional factors such as safety, protection, compliance, and usability. Sustainability in pharmaceutical packaging has been a lesser priority, although with continually increased attention on greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint companies and industries are leaving on the planet, the priority of sustainable packaging is increasing.
Safe packaging for pharmaceuticals includes child-resistant packaging and solutions that can prevent potentially harmful or toxic access from anyone other than the patient. It is also critical that pharmaceutical packaging protects products against external factors such as heat, humidity, oxygen, UV exposure, temperature, or other contaminants to preserve the integrity of pharmaceutical products. Pharmaceutical packaging manufacturers use a variety of materials to produce packaging solutions for the administration of safe doses, product protection, and patient safety.
While the pharmaceutical packaging industry is blamed for large global greenhouse gas emissions, some of the major pharmaceutical companies are focusing on packaging that protects the patient and the planet.
Companies that are rethinking their packaging design need to go back to the drawing board and consider sustainability as one of the initial primary goals. Sustainability is not something that can be incorporated into existing packaging designs as an afterthought; it must be included during the planning phase. Companies that are proactive in their packaging designs are industry leaders in creating effective solutions with waste disposal and recycling initiatives.
There are more choices available today for sustainable packaging materials to produce safe, protective, and user-friendly pharmaceutical packaging. Blister packs are a popular packaging solution for many pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products. Some other materials increasing in usage to improve sustainable packaging options include:
Recyclable materials – the use of materials that can repeatedly move through the recycling stream promote a circular economy and reduce carbon footprints. Recyclable polymers such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are popular materials for recyclable packaging choices.
Biodegradable materials – substrates that can be naturally broken down by microorganisms and assimilated back into the environment without leaving stressful, residual materials in landfills improve sustainable packaging efforts.
Monomaterial design – the use of one sustainable material that is fully recyclable reduces overall energy consumption.
Consumers and patients are becoming increasingly sensitive to the impact that companies make on the planet. Many pharmaceutical companies are realizing that they can balance product and consumer safety with sustainable packaging practices. Speaking with an experienced contract packaging company can help pharmaceutical packaging manufacturers realize the many options available to increase sustainable packaging practices.
Flexible and Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, has been providing packaging solutions to a wide range of industries for more than 80 years. We offer in-depth experience with a variety of packaging materials and utilize automated equipment combined with a skilled staff to provide high-quality packaging services. We offer versatile auto bagging services with more than a dozen different types of auto bagging equipment and over 50 auto bagging machines overall. PPS provides a wide range of bagging services for products such as single-ingredient powders, dietary supplements, and nutraceuticals.
PPS is a flexible packaging provider with vast experience in a wide range of flexible and sustainable packaging materials. We utilize automated equipment such as heat sealers, heat tunnels, auto labeling equipment, auto bag filling, shrink sleeve and vertical band sealers, and hot stamp imprinting to meet a variety of packaging specifications.
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is a leading contract packaging company offering a variety of flexible, sustainable packaging solutions. We follow strict quality policies as an ISO9001:2015 contract packager with automated equipment and a state-of-the-art, modern facility. Contact us to learn how to improve your pharmaceutical packaging process with sustainable, flexible packaging from an experienced contract packaging company.
Secondary packaging describes the type of packaging that protects products inside and is often the first thing customers see when picking products off the shelf. Unlike primary packaging, which comes in direct contact with the product, secondary packaging adds another layer of protection and an opportunity to create brand awareness with marketing and product information.
Examples of Secondary Packaging
Some examples of secondary packaging would be a cereal box with nutritional facts, marketing information, and brand awareness, such as company logos. The bag inside the cereal box that actually holds the cereal would be the primary packaging. Another example of secondary packaging would be a 12-pack of soda in an easy-carry cardboard container, with the actual aluminum can that holds the beverage being the primary packaging.
These are just a few examples of secondary packaging used in the food and beverage industry, although secondary packaging is used in almost every industry for a variety of products and displays, such as gift sets, cosmetics, household items, and more.
Secondary Packaging Material
Secondary packaging material includes many forms depending on the company and product needs. The type of secondary packaging material chosen should provide the best protection for the products during transportation and distribution procedures.
Some of the most common types of packaging material include cardboard boxes and shrinkwrap material, although there is a wide variety of high-quality secondary packaging options that can really set a product apart from the competition. Working with an experienced secondary packaging provider can help you understand the many choices available to provide the most value.
Quality secondary packaging protects the products inside, includes all pertinent information regarding product contents and safety, and goes one step further to promote brand awareness that entices the customer to purchase. The many types of secondary packaging used by the most well-known companies include:
Point-of-Purchase (POP) Displays – designed to increase brand awareness in a variety of forms, such as club packs and packaging for a positive consumer experience.
Club packs – club stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and Walmart display products in club packaging that must meet specific visibility requirements.
Clamshell packaging – one-piece containers made of various materials like foam, cardboard, or plastic that open and close on a hinge.
Cello wrapping – tightly wrapped a product with a thin layer of biodegradable cellophane that is often heat sealed to provide a protective closure without any loose ends.
Gift set packaging – this type of secondary packaging can include a variety of materials and designs, with custom packaging, inner boxes, labeling, cello wrap and more.
Flexible packaging – flex packaging is becoming more popular with bag and pouch filling for less wasted space and product protection.
Kit assembly – kitting is a popular type of secondary packaging that offers consumers a group of similar products or items that are typically used together, such as many household items, hardware, food and beverages, cosmetics, crafts, and more.
Variety pack packaging – variety packs are also popular and give companies a technique to introduce customers to new items or showcase featured items with multiple items in a variety pack.
PPS Offers Secondary Packaging Solutions
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is a leading contract packaging company offering secondary packaging solutions to a variety of businesses and industries. We offer more than 80 years of experience in providing exceptional production solutions, including packaging, repackaging, order fulfillment, kitting and assembly, palletizing, and more. PPS differs from other packaging providers without responsiveness to customer needs and our unique ability to customize solutions as a fully sustainable, not-for-profit organization.
PPS utilizes a highly skilled and trained staff, automated equipment, and strict quality policies to provide best-in-class secondary packaging solutions. We offer experience with all types of secondary packaging materials and processes. Contact us to learn how to improve your packaging process with an experienced secondary packaging provider.
Packaging plays a critical role in the way consumers perceive your product and brand. It is vital that your packaging material stand out on the shelf and quickly provide the information consumers are looking for in an appealing and enticing way.
The packaging industry is continually evolving to meet changing consumer demands and utilize evolving technologies. Things like digital printing and new packaging materials allow smaller companies to compete with big brand names. Companies need to navigate the landscape of a challenging global supply chain while continually evolving their packaging design and materials to meet packaging design trends.
Here are some of the most common packaging design trends for 2023.
Expressive and Playful
It’s no wonder that consumers are leaning towards products that bring comfort and joy in an expressive and playful packaging design. Staying light and upbeat gives consumers just the escapism they are looking for from the stresses of the day.
Calm And Tranquil
Consumers find comfort in calm and tranquil packaging with earthy tones like greens, blues, and browns, and simple, white background. Complementary hues with simple content and minimum use of fonts bring on a sigh of relief and easy reading.
Sustainable and Recyclable
Sustainability continues to be a growing trend across many industries and should be on the mind of all packaging companies as consumer demand for recyclable goods only continues to increase. Designing packaging with a carbon footprint in mind and a goal to reduce the burden that packaging plays on the ecosystem should be at the forefront of packaging companies. Flexible packagingis one way companies are meeting consumer demand and connecting with their consumers to improve their brand awareness.
Recyclable and lightweight, flexible packaging is one trend that continues to increase in 2023, as more companies take responsibility for their role in contributing to climate change and convey these efforts to consumers through packaging materials. Many companies are switching from rigid or plastic packaging to fully recyclable polyethylene (PE) materials. Lightweight packaging saves companies money by shipping more with each truckload, is cost-effective, and reduces environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Inks
Not only are consumers looking for recyclable packaging, but a completely eco-friendly package that includes inks that are vegetable or soya base, compared to common inks which are petroleum-based and contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are in demand in 2023.
Refillable Packaging
Packaging that allows for refills supports a more sustainable packaging process as consumers can make a first purchase of products in a decorative glass container and use sustainable pouches to refill products. Less is more is becoming a theme with every industry.
Minimalism
Minimalism is a trend returning in 2023 as consumers push for simple packaging that portrays honesty and trust. Minimalistic packaging designs look neat and sophisticated with clean lines and few colors rather than busy gimmicks.
Companies seeking to keep up with the trends of 2023 in packaging design benefit from using a contract packaging company with experience in many types of packaging services.
Contract Wrapping and Packaging Solutions
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, provides contract wrapping and packaging solutions with the highest quality standards. We offer more than 80 years of experience, a highly skilled and trained staff, and large capacity in our modern, state-of-the-art facility. PPS provides contract packaging services for some of the largest Fortune 100 companies as well as small and medium-sized businesses.
We are experienced in providing all types of packaging solutions, including flexible packaging, auto bag filling, and various secondary packaging processes such as clamshell packaging, repackaging, labeling, creating point-of-purchase (POP) displays, club packing, shrink-wrapping, pelletizing, and more. We are responsive to our customers’ needs and familiar with a variety of packaging materials and processes to customize and fulfill your packaging needs.
PPS has been providing contract packaging solutions since 1941, offering decades of expertise in a variety of industries and market segments. We practice strict quality policies as part of our ISO9001:2015 certification and invest in our staff through continual training and cross-training practices. Contact us to learn how we can help you with your packaging needs and respond to the most recent trends in packaging for 2023.
Heat sealing poly bags is a cost-effective packaging method many types of products while providing high quality with airtight and water-tight seals. Heat sealing does not require additional material to open or close a bag; it just requires the right type of heat sealing equipment and the right type of poly bags. Auto bagging companies use professional heat sealing equipment, which are versatile and popular for packaging many types of goods.
Types of Poly Bags Used for Heat Sealing
Various types of packaging materials can be used with heat sealing equipment, such as polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These types of packaging materials are used in pouches and bags and are easily sealed with a heat sealing machine to fuse the ends of the plastic bag together.
Two of the most common types of polybag materials are made from polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PE is a lightweight material that can be heated up, fused together, and will cool again quickly after the removal of the heating element. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is particularly an ideal choice for polybag material to be heat-sealed.
LDPE is a common material for many poly bags used for heat sealing as the heat sealing equipment is hot enough to fuse the two sides together and will fuse quickly when heat and pressure are removed. PE is an ideal material for heat-sealing bags as it will contract to make an even tighter seal when cooling.
Mylar bags are also a common type of poly bag material to be used for heat sealing, made from polyethylene terephthalate, PET. This type of material provides transparency, high tensile strength, dimensional stability, and electrical insulation. Mylar bags are commonly used to package electrical components, medical products, and food items due to the airtightness achieved by heat sealing. Mylar bags are considered ideal for packaging sensitive items and one of the most effective for providing resistance to moisture. Mylar bags provide an ultra-low water vapor transmission rate to ensure that this type of bag protects products from various types of hazards that are often encountered during shipping and storage.
Benefits of Heat Sealing Poly Bags
Heat sealing polybags provides many benefits for manufacturing and packaging applications, including:
Airtight and water-tight seal to keep out moisture and debris
Clean finished edges for attractive bagging options
Provides an effective seal on bags of all sizes
Durable seal protects goods during shipping, handling, and sale
PPS Offers Heat Sealing And Auto Bagging Services
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is a contract packaging company with more than 80 years of experience offering a wide range of packaging and bagging services. We utilize auto bagging technology and heat sealing equipment, including a heat tunnel, heat sealer, hot stamp imprinter, and vertical continuous band sealer with stand. Our staff is highly trained and experienced with heat sealing various polybag material types.
PPS is a leading contract packaging and bagging company utilizing modern heat sealing equipment, more than a dozen types of auto bagging equipment, and over 50 types of auto bagging machines.
PPS provides production solutions for companies of all sizes with a wide range of secondary packaging and bagging services. We offer the capacity, resources, and skilled staff to meet your production needs with quality products delivered on time. Contact us to learn more about our many secondary packaging solutions, including auto-bagging and heat-sealing polybags.
Stick pack packages, or pouches, are small and narrow and perfect for single-serve products. Stick pack pouches are convenient for products required on the go, such as drink powder pouches, nutraceuticals, liquids, concentrates, and many other products where a quick one-time use is ideal for consumers.
Stick Pack Pouches and Common Uses
Stick pack pouches have become a lot more popular over recent years and are used for many things other than drink powder mixes. Anywhere a one-time, single-serve use of a product would provide convenience to consumers is a good place to evaluate the benefits of stick-pack packaging. Common uses for stick pack pouches include:
1. Drink powder mixes
2. Nutraceutical packaging
3. Spices and flavorings
4. Lotions and shampoos
5. Hand sanitizer
6. Marketing, sample giveaways, brand promotion
Stick pack pouches are a type of flexible packaging, and many companies are making the switch wherever possible to reduce their carbon footprint as cylindrical-shaped pouches can require anywhere from 10 to 40% less packaging material than square or rectangular pouches.
Stick packs are an actual type of film structure, a series of laminates that provide a specific shape with sealing characteristics and product barrier to allow for easy removal of products with little residue left on the inside of the bag. Special equipment is required as stick packs arrive ready to run on an automated machine with printing already on the roll.
Benefits of Stick Pack Pouches
There are many benefits for companies to package various products in stick pack pouches ranging from internal efficiencies to consumer convenience.
Reduce carbon footprint – Packaging products in these slim stick packs can cut costs with less waste in materials and fewer costs required for packaging and shipping. Less packaging material also equals less waste to dispose of, ending up in landfills.
Product protection – stick packs are durable and protect products inside against moisture, dirt, or contamination.
Compact – the small packaging size fits easily in a pocket or purse and makes it easy to open and pour out contents.
Convenience – consumers enjoy the convenience of grabbing a pouch that contains a single serving as they’re walking out the door. It’s easier to hold a stick pack in your hand than cumbersome rectangle pouches.
No spillage – contents inside of a stick pack pour out a lot easier than a rectangle pouch which could spill around a water bottle opening, for example, or not pour out evenly. Stick packs are easy to open with no spillage or residue left inside the pouch.
Improved marketing – stick packs give products a higher perceived value over rectangle pouches with a sleek, classy look.
Messaging options – stick patches still provide ample room for brand awareness marketing with eye-catching, colorful, and unique designs as well as content information.
Companies that take care to evaluate their packaging options, including choice of materials and types of packaging, will reap major benefits with improved product quality as well as brand awareness and increased sales.
Packaging Solutions with Auto Bag Filling
Consulting with an experienced contract packaging company will help businesses to understand their options and how to improve their packaging process. Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, has been providing production solutions for companies of all sizes for more than 80 years. We offer high-quality and efficient wrapping and packaging services, including secondary packaging, flexible packaging, and auto baggingand bag filling.
PPS has experience with a wide range of manufacturers and companies in various industries providing bag-filling services for many types of materials, including dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, single-use powders, plant and bird seeds, and more.
PPS offers vast expertise in a wide range of flexible packaging services as well as other production solutions such as kitting, assembly, and secondary packaging, including variety pack and gift set packaging, and more. We follow strict quality policies and utilize state-of-the-art, modern equipment, including our ERP system, for complete lot code traceability. Contact us to learn more about our flexible packaging solutions, including auto bag filling.
Shrink wrapping is a common term that simply means wrapping products with a thin film to protect products, often with heat shrink wrap that protects various items when wrapped and sealed. Shrink wrapping is also a term used for wrapping a pallet of goods with a stretch film material, a process more accurately described as stretch wrapping.
Types of Shrink Wrapping Film
There are various types of films used for shrink-wrapping products, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shrink film, one of the most commonly used types of shrink-wrap film before being replaced with polyolefin (POF) shrink wrap. POF shrink film does not contain plasticizers like PVC and can be used in various temperature ranges without hardening or softening like PVC film.
Cross-linked POF shrink films is standard polyolefin shrink film with irradiation applied that creates a stronger film with better seal strength capability. Cross-linked shrink films are sterile and meet FDA approval for food contact.
No matter the type of shrink-wrapping film used, there are several things that companies can do to reduce shrink-wrapping packaging costs.
Tips to Reduce Shrink Wrapping Costs
Negotiate Your Shrink Wrap Roll Cost
Negotiate your cost per roll of shrink-wrap film material and ask about quantity price breaks. Many suppliers offer reduced costs for larger quantity orders which also saves in fewer deliveries.
Evaluate Your Packaging Film Width Requirements
Evaluating precise film width requirements can save a lot of money and reduce waste. Some packagers may not be aware of the flexibility available in width sizes and should ask their shrink-wrap film suppliers about variations from full-inch increments, such as 7.5” instead of 8”. Shaving just half an inch off your film width can save a considerable amount of money, particularly for high-volume jobs.
Carefully Measure Shrink Film Cutoff Requirements
The film cutoff length is the length required for each shrink-wrap bag for each package. Know the minimum length requirements for shrink film cutoff, as shaving ½ an inch to an inch can save a considerable amount of money and make your material last longer. To determine the correct cutoff length, place a product on your shrink wrap machine and remove it right before it enters the shrink tunnel. Slit the end of the film to remove the product, lay the film flat, and measure from one end of the seal to the other to get your cutoff length.
Adjust Shrink Wrap Film Gauge
Shrink wrap film gauge simply means the thickness of the film and is one of the most critical aspects to optimize any shrink-wrapping process. Using the wrong shrink film gauge could be a costly mistake that wastes thousands of dollars. Shrink film thickness is measured in terms of gauge or mil. Mil is a standard term used to define the thickness of packaging films, although gauge is a common term used in the industry.
Packagers may talk about 45 gauge film, 60 or 75 gauge, etc.…, all referring to the film thickness. One single mil equals one-thousandths of an inch, .001”. To convert mil to gauge, simply multiply the number of mils by 100. Therefore, one mil is equal to 100 gauge.
Optimize Your Packaging Line
Even companies that feel their packaging process is the most efficient it could be should continually strive to improve efficiency and quality. Consulting with an experienced packaging company can provide many benefits in terms of identifying waste and recognizing areas for improvement. Many companies may realize cost savings by outsourcing shrink wrapping and packaging to an experienced contract packaging company.
PPS Offers Contract Packaging and Shrink Wrapping Services
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, is a leading contract packaging company in Illinois with more than 80 years of experience. We offer shrink wrapping servicesin our modern, state-of-the-art facility with the capacity, automated equipment, and trained staff to improve your packaging and shrink-wrapping process. We utilize L-sealers and shrink tunnels for various products of all sizes up to 18 inches in width and height and 24 inches in length.
PPS is experienced in heat shrink wrapping of many types of products in various industries. We offer high-quality wrapping and packaging services aimed at providing production solutions with quality products delivered on time. Contact us to learn how to improve your wrapping and packaging process with quality shrink-wrapping services.
All companies, whether manufacturers or retail sellers, realize the critical importance of product packaging. High-quality packaging provides better protection for the products inside and simply sells more retail products. Product packaging is something that business owners put a lot of thought into, while consumers sometimes take it for granted.
We expect our products to be packaged well and free of defects like scratches, dents, or other damage. We, as consumers, also do not give it much thought when we gravitate toward the product package that catches our eye that looks exactly like what we are looking for. Whether it is flashy, modern looking, clean, informative, protective, or just appealing messaging and use of colors, product packaging clearly sways purchasing decisions and is one of the most important choices companies make in promoting their goods.
Packaging Serves More Than One Purpose
The importance of choosing the right product packaging cannot be overstated, as packaging today serves more than one purpose. There are different types of packaging, such as:
Primary – packaging that is in direct contact with products, such as the actual bottles or cans that beverages are stored in.
Secondary – distinctly different from primary packaging in that secondary packaging is a protective layer such as the outer box that all the beverage cans are stored in. Secondary packaging typically includes eye-catching designs, company logos, and information to attract and inform consumers.
Tertiary – this type of packaging includes pallets and stretch wrapping film used for packaging and shipping or relocating large fulfillment orders.
For the purpose of product protection and consumer appeal, we are mostly focused on secondary packaging. Secondary packaging serves two purposes to protect the products inside and provide the brand recognition necessary to help move the products off the shelves.
Quality secondary packaging is crucial for product sales and prevents product contamination or damage, which increases customer loyalty. Building up that customer loyalty with aesthetically pleasing, eye-catching, colorful, and informative packaging, such as product labels on food and beverage items, is all attributed to quality secondary packaging.
Quality Secondary Packaging Sells More Products
Consumer Appeal
Product packaging is often what gives consumers a first introduction to the product inside. With the right packaging design, companies can differentiate their products from the competition and provide a good first impression to secure lasting brand loyalty. Quality secondary packaging is a multifaceted process that requires careful consideration for companies selling products in all industries.
Informative Packaging
Quality product packaging promotes the products on display and provides information to consumers about the products inside. Secondary packaging may contain information like assembly instructions, what is included in the box, and what may be required, such as batteries for toys. Quality secondary packaging helps consumers to make informed decisions and promotes customer satisfaction.
Brand Recognition
Brand recognition should be clear on secondary packaging, as most retailers group similar products together on shelves making it important to differentiate your product from the competition. Interesting, eye-catching secondary packaging helps to build brand recognition and sway purchasing decisions to your products over comparable items.
Secondary Packaging and Product Protection
Secondary packaging must exceed expectations for eye-catching, appealing designs while also providing maximum product protection. Quality packaging that protects products increases customer satisfaction and reduces product returns due to damage. Be sure to use quality packaging materials and follow best practices when packaging goods. Working with an experienced packaging company can help companies to achieve both product protection and brand recognition with quality-packed items.
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, offers quality contract packaging services with more than 80 years of experience. We are knowledgeable about the many types of quality packaging materials and follow best practices according to strict quality policies. Contact us to learn how to improve your secondary packaging operations with an experienced packaging company on your team.
The flexible packaging market continues to grow and is expected to increase from an estimated $68.5 billion in 2021 to $102.8 billion by 2031, according to a report by Allied Market Research, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2%. There is a reason why flexible packaging is increasing and replacing rigid types of packaging materials, although making the switch in packaging formats can seem daunting. Of this increase in flexible packaging, retort pouches, in particular, are expected to experience the highest growth rate due to growing end-user demand.
There are several reasons why flexible packaging replacing aluminum cans across a broad range of industries, such as food products, consumer goods, electronics, and cosmetics. Flexible packaging increases marketability and adds value to both food and non-food products, providing protective packaging properties with durable, flexible materials, including films, plastics, foils, and paper.
Some of the most important reasons that are driving the change from cans to flexible packaging include:
Sustainability
Advancements in flexible film technology
Flexibility, versatility, and customizable
Protects shelf-stable products
BPA free
Safety
Sustainability
Sustainability is a big plus for flexible packaging and one of the largest reasons for the increase in companies making the switch from rigid to flex packaging materials. Flex packaging provides a sustainable alternative with a comparable shelf life as cans yet can save up to 75% of material costs. Flex packaging requires considerably fewer materials, less fuel for production and transportation, and takes up less waste in landfills, although it is typically completely recyclable.
Flex packaging provides a green solution to the packaging industry, increases a company’s reputation for showing corporate responsibility, and significantly reduces the carbon footprint related to packaging. Sustainability is at the top of the list for the advantages of flexible packaging.
Advancements in Flexible Film Technology
Significant breakthroughs in flexible film packaging technology have improved the durability and resilience of flexible packages with high barrier protection and resistance to water, air, or spoilage.
Flexible Packaging Is Versatile and Customizable
Flexible packaging is highly versatile and customizable, with a variety of materials available in just about any size required. This significantly reduces extra space required for shipping and storing, as flexible packaging adjusts to the contours of the products to optimize space. Flexible packaging can include printing, stickers, tamper-resistant seals, and a variety of customizable designs and features.
Flex Packaging Protects Shelf Stable Products
High-barrier flexible packaging films are strong and durable enough to store shelf-stable food products without requiring refrigeration or freezing. These products in the past were stored in rigid containers for long-lasting protection.
Most Flexible Packaging is BPA Free
Bisphenol A, BPA, is a chemical that is commonly found in food packaging made of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. BPA is found in polycarbonate plastics in beverage containers such as water bottles and in epoxy resins which are used to line the interior of metal food cans and bottle tops. According to the Mayo Clinic, some research shows that BPA can seep into food and beverages from storage containers and cause possible adverse health effects.
The FDA, however, has determined BPA is safe at very low levels. You can reduce your exposure to BPA by using BPA-free packaging products such as the many types of flexible packaging options.
Safety of Flexible Packaging
gone are the days of requiring employees to open large metal cans to expose a lid with very sharp edges. Safely handling and disposing of food and beverage containers is always a concern for food service operators. Grocery stores, restaurants, and food supply chains can lessen the risk to their employees for on-the-job injuries and cuts, which may cause Workmen’s Comp. claims and create blood-borne pathogen contamination issues as well. Flexible pouches designed with friendlier open and close features like tear notches and slide-to-close features significantly help to reduce injury rates in the food service industry and speed operations with easy open access.
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, can help you realize the many benefits of flexible packaging as an experienced contract packaging and flex packaging provider. We provide high-quality flex packaging, auto bagging, heat sealing, auto labeling, and more with modern equipment and a highly trained staff. Contact us to learn more and realize the benefits of switching from rigid cans to flexible packaging.
Companies in all industries are feeling the squeeze of price increases and supply chain issues. The value of a dollar does not go as far as it used to, and companies are evaluating every aspect of operations to find opportunities for cost savings. No matter what business you’re in, one thing typically remains constant, and that is that all companies need some form of packaging.
Packaging Is a Constant, Critical Process for All Businesses
Packaging might be one of those elements that are taken for granted, performed the same way it’s always been done. Most businesses are busy manufacturing or promoting their niche products and forget to evaluate their packaging process periodically. Many companies continue to purchase the same types of corrugated boxes in the same sizes from the same supplier and perform in-house packaging the same way.
This consistent demand for packaging should not be overlooked and is one of the best places to start when evaluating your processes and supply chain for cost savings.
Make Smarter Packaging Choices
Instead of evaluating your packaging process only to cut costs, business managers should focus on making smarter packaging choices. Packaging always has to meet the most important demands, such as product protection, brand awareness, and traceability. Not all packaging expenses are tied up in material, evaluating the entire process is critical to recognizing areas for improvement.
Some things to do to make smarter packaging choices include:
Be proactive – don’t wait until you experience skyrocketing costs for your supplies.
Identify all packaging cost factors – evaluate all cost factors, including material, delivery times, shipping costs, labor, and capacity.
Analyze packaging inventory – make sure your packaging fits your products without excessive need for dunnage. Consider using padded envelopes instead of boxes when possible.
Use the right size of boxes – most carriers like UPS and FedEx base pricing now on dimensions in addition to weight. Using oversized boxes is a waste of space and money.
Evaluate internal packaging processes – is your packaging process optimized for efficiency? Streamlining work processes with an organized flow of materials, without backtracking over workstations to get your products from production, to packaging and shipping, can reduce workspace, free up capacity, and cut costs.
Consider outsourcing packaging – evaluating contract packaging companies, and ask for assistance in evaluating your total packaging costs compared to your current expenses. In the past, companies may have considered contract packaging unaffordable, although contract packagerstoday are a valuable addition to many supply chains.
Contract Packaging Provides Many Benefits
Working with a contract packaging company provides many benefits over companies performing packaging in-house. Contract packagers offer expertise in the various types of packaging materials and can make suggestions for types and sizes of boxes and other packaging materials that can meet a company’s needs while providing cost savings.
One of the greatest advantages of working with a contract packaging company is the ability to free up floor space at current facilities. Shipping product in bulk to a contract packager allows companies to focus on their niche product production and receive their products back ready for direct shipment or sale. This saves on internal packaging labor and allows companies to grow with an expert packager fulfilling this very important role.
PPS Offers Quality Contract Packaging Services
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, offers a wide range of quality contract packaging services for all types of companies. PPS is an expert Midwest contract packaging company with more than 80 years of experience in helping companies to meet production goals. Our contract packaging services include primary and secondary packaging, repackaging, packing, kitting, assembly, auto bag filling, cello wrap, and flexible packaging and palletizing services. We also provide electronics kitting and government sewing contract services.
PPS is a fully sustainable, not-for-profit contract packaging company focused on total customer satisfaction through employee development and training. We follow strict quality policies as part of our :
Peoria Production Solutions, PPS, offers a wide range of quality contract packaging services for all types of companies. PPS is an expert Midwest contract packaging company with more than 80 years of experience in helping companies to meet production goals. Our contract packaging services include primary and secondary packaging, repackaging, packing, kitting, assembly, auto bag filling, cello wrap, and flexible packaging and palletizing services. We also provide electronics kitting and government sewing contract services.
PPS is a fully sustainable, not-for-profit contract packaging company focused on total customer satisfaction through employee development and training. We follow strict quality policies as part of our ISO9001:2015 registration and provide full material traceability with our ERP system. Contact us to learn more about how our contract packaging services can provide you with packaging cost savings.
