Flexible Packaging

Flexible packaging is a staple in the consumer packaged goods industry, offering a vast range of benefits for both manufacturers and consumers. From its versatility and cost-effectiveness, to its ability to enhance product protection and reduce packaging waste, there are many applications for flexible packaging. Flexible packaging can come in a wide range of formats, including pre-made bags, stick packs, sachets, zipper pouches, films, overwraps, finished rollstock and even flexible tubes. One of the most basic functions of flexible packaging is its ability to extend the shelf life of food and beverage products. This is of the utmost importance for perishable items, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products and processed foods. Flexible packaging, sometimes also called flex packaging, can help prevent spoilage and food waste by creating a tightly sealed barrier between the product and the elements, preserving freshness and flavor, while also protecting products from damage during transportation and storage, reducing the risk of product loss and increasing overall efficiency. Of course, the aforementioned is the bare minimum expected out of any packaging format. One of the ways in which flexible packaging sets itself apart is that it serves as an effective solution for reducing packaging waste, which is becoming not only important, but imperative as the world continues to come to terms with our consumption patterns and their effect on rising global temperatures, sea levels, and pollution. Unlike more traditional packaging options, like glass jars and aluminum cans, flexible packaging solutions, such as polybags, stretch wraps, and polyethylene and metallic films, use significantly less material. Combined with the relative abundance of recycled and recyclable materials that are now available to manufacturers, the amount of waste generated is greatly reduced, while producing a lighter carbon footprint associated with packaging and transportation in the CPG industry. CPG brands continue to explore and bring to market flexible packaging based on monomaterials, further advancing sustainable packaging initiatives. Aside from just the eco-friendly benefits of these materials, another appealing reason to explore this packaging format is its overall versatility and ability to be customized to meet the specific needs of individual use cases. From its shape and size, to the type of material used, flexible packaging can be tailored to each specific product's unique specifications. For instance, some products may require a special moisture barrier plastic, while others may need something easy to open and reseal, like a zipper pouch. This flexibility makes it a smart solution for numerous CPG products, including snacks, condiments, household cleaning products and more. Building off of the idea of versatility, this style of packaging also lends itself well to marketing initiatives that seek to grow a brand's equity, helping companies build recognition and increase consumer interest with creative, engaging designs. Personalization is a fast growing trend within the industry as consumers begin to expect a certain amount of tailoring as the new standard. Companies can turn to flex packaging as a means of creating a unique and personalized experience for their customers. This can entail custom designs, graphics and branding that reflect the specific wants, needs and preferences of individual consumers to enhance the customer experience and increase loyalty over time. For all of the potential benefits, it's certainly worth taking a deeper dive into this packaging solution to determine if it may be a fit for your brand as you prepare to invest in new packaging equipment for the years to come. Explore the PMMI ProSource directory and find the packaging and materials solutions you need today.