How the Packaging of Your Product Influences the Buying Decisions of Your Target Market

Did you know that a lot of buying decisions consumers make are based on the product's packaging? About a third of consumer buying decisions are due to the packaging of a product. Since this is the case, you should really put a lot of thought into your product's packaging. But you probably already know this. You may also know that there are key factors which affect the effectiveness of a product's packaging, from the colours used to the brand icons to overall attractiveness. So how do you make sure that your target market is sufficiently attracted to your product and will purchase it? Do you understand how the packaging of your product influences the buying decisions of your target market? Here's what you should know.

The first impression
First impressions are truly significant. Imagine, a consumer will take only 7 seconds before they form an impression about a product based on its packaging. What's more, the impression made about a product is also based on the subconscious of the consumer - it's not something they are truly aware of. You have to be able to reach into your consumers" subconscious and draw out what they want and expect from your product - and its packaging.

The convenience it brings
Consumers are quick with their decision-making when it comes to buying different products from the shelves - and you have to make sure that your product is conveniently and efficiently packaged in order to strike a chord. If a product doesn't look particularly convenient to use or consume, consumers will not be likely to purchase it, and this has been confirmed by packaging industry market research groups like Consumers have to see right away that your product is convenient - easy to use, and easy to dispose of.

The brand appeal
If you have a company logo (and what company doesn't?) you have to make sure that your logo - especially if it is easily recognisable - is prominently displayed. If your logo is already known, this can even awaken positive reactions and emotions in your consumers, even if your product is entirely new. If you are lucky enough to have a long-term relationship with your consumers, you have to optimise this, especially when introducing a new product in the market.

The attraction
Of course, attractive packaging still matters. A lot of consumers will spend time looking at attractive packaging, thereby influencing their buying decision in the end. The aesthetic appeal of your packaging makes a difference, and this includes aspects such as typography, colour, and more. Here are some more figures that may surprise you: in a study conducted in 2014, around 52% of consumers said they would buy a product again if it comes in premium, high quality packaging. So, does your packaging fit the bill?


Article kindly provided by noa.uk.net

User Anecdotes

We've solicited a number of user anecdotes on this topic, and have hand picked some of the more interesting ones below. We feel that anecdotes can give a practical, human perspective on a topic.

"I've always been drawn to products with unique and appealing packaging. In fact, I often find myself making purchase decisions based purely on the packaging, even though I know it's not the most sensible approach. I remember purchasing a perfume because it came in a beautiful bottle that resembled a classic piece of art. Although the fragrance turned out to be mediocre, I still keep the empty bottle on display in my room. It's funny how aesthetics play such an important role in our decision-making process. Companies that are able to create visually appealing packaging designs definitely have an advantage over their competitors, as it appeals to our emotions and makes us more likely to choose their products. It's something that marketers should definitely keep in mind when creating packaging for their products.
Marie P.


As a graphic designer, I can certainly attest to the power of packaging in influencing the purchase decisions of consumers. I've had clients approach me for rebranding and packaging design services when they noticed that their products weren't selling as well as they'd hoped. In many cases, a simple update to their packaging design led to a significant increase in sales. One of my clients, for example, used to sell their honey in plain glass jars with a simple paper label. After I redesigned their packaging to feature an eye-catching illustration and a more modern label design, their sales almost doubled. It's amazing how something as simple as a well-designed package can have such a huge impact on the success of a product.
Kazuki S.


In my experience, packaging can make or break a product. I run a small online store selling handmade artisanal soaps, and I've noticed that the way I package my products greatly affects their popularity. When I first started, I used to wrap my soaps in plain brown paper and tie them with twine. After receiving feedback from customers that the packaging looked a bit dull, I decided to invest in some custom-designed packaging with vibrant colors and patterns. The result? My sales have nearly tripled, and I've received so many compliments on the new packaging! It's clear to me that people are more likely to buy a product when it's presented in an attractive package, so I'll definitely continue to put effort into making my packaging as appealing as possible.
Shreya D."

Want to add your own anecdote? Fill in your comment via our contact page here - just put your name in the name field (we will not publish your full name), and your comment in the "message" field. The subject field will already be populated with the title of this article so we know which article you are commenting on. We will NOT publish or use your email address for marketing purposes.