In today’s world, product packaging significantly impacts our lives. It influences consumer choices, protects products, and unfortunately, can contribute to environmental issues. A recent trend, shrinkflation, the practice of reducing product sizes while maintaining prices, has raised concerns about packaging sustainability. Throughout the customer’s perception, it can feel like a “scam” when the packaging appears larger than the contents inside. However, when we take a closer look at the secondary packaging and warehouse aspects, a different story is revealed.
How do consumers perceive Shrinkflation?
From the consumer’s perspective, shrinkflation might look misleading when viewed through the shelves of stores. When customers realise the size of the package does not properly correspond to the amount of product within, they could feel cheated, thus changing their purchase habits. However, reducing packaging waste is just as important as anything else. But is it really a scam?
How your business can profit from shrinkflation as a standardised packaging:
From a warehouse standpoint, standardising package sizes can lead to several advantages: it reduces cardboard waste, maximises storage space, and streamlines processes, regardless of customer perceptions.
Let’s consider the financial and operational benefits that result from supply chain-wide secondary packaging size alignment. A case study between BOTTA EcoPackaging and Inventronics shows that companies standardised their box sizes, and reduced cardboard waste by an average of 27%.
To find out more, you can explore the case study between BOTTA EcoPackaging and Inventronics here
Therefore, instead of looking at shrinkflation from a narrow lens, it’s critical to take a comprehensive approach that takes into account the opinions of all stakeholders. We can provide long-term solutions that benefit all parties involved by addressing the needs of both businesses and customers. This means investing in cutting-edge packaging designs that put efficiency and sustainability first, encouraging responsible consumption practices, and expanding transparency in packaging practices.
In conclusion, Shrinkflation is complex, but with a balanced understanding of both customer and business perspectives, we can work towards a transparent and sustainable future. So let’s move forward with a holistic approach that prioritises transparency and environmental consciousness in the packaging industry. To learn more about sustainable packaging solutions, watch our video here!
