Small businesses today are being pressured to utilize sustainable packaging. Today customers have an increased interest in protecting the earth. In 2019 a McKinsey & Nielsen IQ study revealed that products which included some form of an environmental claim grew at 28% over the next five years.
These products outgrew their counterparts by 8%. Using environmentally friendly packaging has become a wise decision for small businesses.
In This Article:
The Market Is Growing Fast
The global sustainable packaging market has been increasing each year. In fact according to Mordor Intelligence as of 2026 it had reached $325.94 billion. It is estimated that the total for this industry will be $463.41 billion by the end of 2031.
As such, we believe that the decision to choose sustainable packaging is not a fad. Rather it reflects our company’s commitment to being environmentally conscious and socially responsible through all of its practices.
Start With Simple Steps
There are many ways a new business can take its first step. A simple place to begin is by using better packaging supplies. The best choices are recycled paper or cardboard. Both will disintegrate quickly and won’t hurt anything in nature. It’s great for the environment; it will save you money as well. Many people today think that all brands should choose this way to do things.
Another reason many small brands have changed their packaging to use custom boxes created from recycled materials is that they look very nice and create much less waste. Another advantage is that boxes can be specifically designed for every product, so there will be little-to-no excess material and therefore lower shipping prices.
Facts About Packaging Waste
Packaging waste has become an issue worldwide. In 2018, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 28.1 percent of the total municipal solid waste was packaging waste. Every year that is a tremendous amount of waste. Smart packaging decisions by small businesses could greatly reduce the amount of waste created.
Green brand consumers are becoming more common. According to one survey of consumers, 76% of respondents reported that they would purchase from a company that had environmentally friendly practices. As a result, companies acting early will be able to build their customers’ trust much quicker.
Common Challenges to Expect
Sustainable packaging is not always inexpensive or easy for all organizations. In fact, as of now, around sixty-two percent of companies identify that “cost” is their most significant challenge in adopting sustainable packaging practices. Additionally, some organizations are having difficulty finding sufficient amounts of environmentally friendly (eco-friendly) packaging materials. However, numerous small businesses are able to establish a foundation for sustainable packaging with minimal upfront expense.
Smart Strategies That Work
One way to begin is by simply reducing the amount of packaging material used. Reduced size box’s utilize significantly fewer natural resources and can be shipped at a lower cost. The same applies to small business savings from this practice. Often, simple, clean designs are perceived as contemporary and professional.
The use of certified materials also increases customer confidence. As an example, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification indicates that the paper used came from responsibly managed forests. In many cases, this detail will be the deciding factor for the shopper as many packaging suppliers now provide certified options at competitive pricing.
Another popular trend among consumers today is reusable packaging. Consumers may reuse sturdy boxes for storage or gift purposes. Many companies are offering refills on their products which not only reduces waste but also creates repeat business for the company.
The type of ink selected for print jobs on sustainable packaging also impacts the environment. Water-based and soy-based ink are both considered “green” options for printing, because they produce fewer toxins during use compared to traditional inks. Companies can ask their printer(s) if there are available eco-friendly ink alternatives.
Labeling that is honest and clearly communicates (through use of recycling symbols etc.) will help consumers feel confident in a company’s brand. When consumers believe they have been given accurate information on proper disposal, it creates trust. The importance of labeling continues to grow with each passing year.
Companies don’t have to pursue sustainability by themselves. There are numerous eco-friendly packaging supplier options available to companies. Companies should ask their suppliers regarding their products’ raw materials and if any certifications were earned. This provides assurance that the packaging was both sustainable and safe.
Adding a Personal Touch
Packaging can help determine how a customer will perceive your product. The package may be so nice that it increases the customer’s perception that they have received something special. For example, the “unboxing” experience has become an important part of a purchase. Businesses as small as yours can create these feelings through careful design.
A common method used in creating a sense of uniqueness and care includes the use of a personal message. Brands can customize their boxes by including the recipient’s first name or other type of personalized greeting. This creates a more unique gift-giving experience. Many times, customers will remember brands that made them feel special. Personalizing the box does not require a lot of money.
Packaging takes this concept one step further by allowing you to include the recipient’s name on the inside of the box. In addition to the recipients’ name you could include a brief note thanking them for purchasing from your business. Creating an emotional bond with your customer is extremely valuable. When a customer has had such an experience they are more likely to share pictures of themselves with your company on social media.
The types of packaging that build relationships with your customers are those that show value for their time and/or purchase. People prefer to feel valued rather than simply another number in sales. Boxes can be utilized effectively for small gifts and/or treats; in addition, if you operate an online store, personalized product boxes provide a means to create a more personalized shopping experience.
Why Starting Early Pays Off
Sustainable and Personal Packaging are similar in terms of building process and value. The smaller the changes you make today, the bigger your results will be tomorrow. Businesses that begin their sustainable efforts early develop stronger customer relationships. These strong relationships also help drive repeat business.
It is easy to get started with small changes. Choose something as simple as changing what kind of material you use for your packaging or even designing a new package look. Observe how your customers react to the change. Once you see how they react, add another small change and continue on this path.
