Packaging Prototypes 101
By: phase1There are many factors capable of influencing a consumer’s purchasing decision, and the packaging of a product is at the top of the list. Product packaging that’s creative, appealing and functional is able to conveying a lot more than just the product’s name and a description of what’s inside. If you’re considering how you can make your product stand out on retail shelves and send a compelling message to prospective customers, finding the right packaging design starts at the prototyping stage.
Whether you’re developing candy bags, pouches, bar wraps, sleeves or foils, packaging prototypes is the process of creating a physical mockup to serve as a finished product sample. A well-designed packaging mockup is extremely useful throughout product development because it:
- Helps test the effectiveness of how product packaging will look and feel like by putting it in the hands of real consumers
- Adds legitimacy to new brands that are introducing products to the market for the first time
- Determines what materials and designs best protect products during shipping and storage and while on display
- Provides a way to make a more impressive presentation at trade shows and to focus groups and investors
Options in Packaging Prototypes
Depending on the type of product, there are many choices in packaging designs and materials. Substrates such as films, foils and plastics are used in various combinations to create unique prototypes for products ranging from soft drinks and beauty supplies to auto parts and candies. Prototypes can typically be produced as single units or in larger orders of 500 or more. Types of packaging solutions include but are not limited to:
- Labels and wrappers
- Food and beverage bags
- Folding cartons and boxes
- POP displays and shippers
- Shrink wraps and sleeves
The Prototype Packaging Process
When developing a prototype, everything starts with creating the product design and nailing down exact specifications. Once all of the final specs including embossing, foils, metallics, spot varnishing and other options are submitted with the approved design, the product package mockup can typically be completed in a matter of days. With the finished sample in hand, companies can assess the packaging effectiveness and either proceed with a larger print run or initiate further design iterations.
If you’re interested in learning more about prototype packaging for commercial products, including gold foil packaging, Phase 1 Prototypes will be happy to answer all your questions. We have extensive knowledge and experience in product mockups for the food and beverage industries and many other types of businesses. Learn more about our complete range of digital printing services and request a quote on a foil packaging comp for your product today.
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