Thinking inside the box

While consumers used to think packaging was unnecessary and wasteful, “that misconception is now changing,” according to Mintel’s 2018 packaging report. “A focus on package innovations that extend food freshness, preserve ingredient fortification, and ensure safe delivery is increasingly benefiting consumers on a global scale.” New packaging can also help persuade Millennial consumers, who are increasingly shopping the perimeter, to take a chance on a center-store item. “Transparent materials, contemporary design, recyclability, or unique shapes can help draw in younger consumers,” the report found.