Packaging Blog | Flexible, Organic, Custom Contract | Maco PKG

Feb 27
2

How to Get Your Product Into Grocery Stores

By | Packaging Process | No Comments

Customers are always looking for new products to try, and product owners are always looking for new ways to expand their revenue. But how do you meet those customers in the middle, making your product both highly visible and accessible?

Grocery stores are a great way to put your business into overdrive, giving customers new options in ever-fashionable packaging. Whether you are looking to sell at local convenience stores or big-box wholesale grocers, it presents the perfect opportunity for your product.

Interested in learning more about how to get your product into grocery stores? In this ultimate guide, Mako PKG takes you through the whole process from start to finish.

Supermarket aisle

Why Grocery Stores?

You might be thinking, with all the options available to your product with the internet, why choose grocery stores? It can seem like an outdated resource at times, but grocery stores still bring a lot of opportunity to the table, especially when it comes to increasing customer reach in your target demographic.

Grocery stores are still one of the most popular places for buyers to visit where they are more likely to pick up a product. The grocery store has already vetted it, and there are no shipping fees and similar product options are limited, making it easier to try something new.

Increased Sales and Visibility

When you push your product to grocery store shelves, you’ll enjoy greater visibility than you would be fighting for space on the internet. There are hundreds of new products published every week online, each one vying for customers’ attention.

It can be hard to break through the noise and showcase your product as something truly unique. Packaging and branding make a huge difference, but sometimes your product needs a little extra help to become successful. In a grocery store, the customer is already there and ready to purchase, but they can explore new product options on their own time. What this translates to is increased sales and product visibility on an ongoing basis for your product.

Product Legitimacy

It’s relatively easy to launch a product online, which means your product will come under intense scrutiny when it first reaches online retailers’ shelves. When your product reaches the shelves of a local grocer, however, it feels more familiar and homegrown to customers, giving your product more legitimacy behind the concept and quality.

Better yet, if your product stands out in some way, such as with packaging or unique ingredients, it will seem like a unique offering in a sea of choices that look the same.

Lower Operation Costs

If you already sell online and are looking to expand your product’s reach to brick-and-mortar stores, you’ll find that selling to already well-known grocers can help offset some operating costs. Shipping costs and profit margin on a per-product basis may be impacted by the new strategy, but you’ll see more product volume moving to make up for it. Overall, this lowers your operating costs compared to starting your own brick-and-mortar store. The grocery store takes care of most of the marketing, they’re already well known by the local population, and none of the overhead costs are pushed to you.

Improve Geographical Reach

By getting your product onto grocery store shelves, you can improve your geographical reach far beyond what you could by yourself. Grocers typically attract customers not only from the city they are based in but also from surrounding cities and neighborhoods. This means that your geographical reach is expanded greatly with each new grocer your product is approved in, allowing you to expand your operations faster than an online-only store.

How far your geographical reach is expanded will be based on a case-by-case basis. For example, an everyday supermarket in a city with four or five other similar market options won’t expand your geographical reach as much as a big-box specialty store where people travel an hour or more to visit.

Supermarket shelves

Creating Your Brand Packaging

Your product’s packaging is one of the most unique things customers will identify with your product. (1) The more the customer can identify with the branding, the easier it will be for them to make that decision.

When it comes to your sales pitch it’s common for salespeople to rely on hard data and statistics to back up their claims. Instead, you should tell them a story.”
– HuffPost

At Maco PKG, we help you package your product in a flexible and unique way, keeping your product’s identity at the core of each innovative package without sacrificing quality or cost-effectiveness. We can help you take your product from prototype to production so you can present the best version of your product to category managers and customers alike.

Supermarket shopping

How to Get Your Product in Stores: The Process

Getting your product into a grocery store can seem like a daunting task, but it’s not so complicated once you break it down. Once you have all the packaging ready, you have the product in hand, and the product has gone through all the necessary steps for FDA approval, then you are ready to send your product to market.

Typically, when learning how to get your product into grocery stores, you will come across several steps in the process outlined below. Keep in mind that these steps may change based on the retailer you approach, as individual processes vary.

Develop a List of Potential Buyers

Before you rush your product out the door, you should develop a list of potential buyers. We’re not talking about the end-customers who will be buying from the retailers, but rather, which grocers are most likely to carry your product?

You should develop a list of grocers that stock similar products. Note the product brands they carry and at what price range they typically sell these products within. For example, trying to sell a gourmet, organic rice product may not go over too well at the corner store, but it could be a hit at the local health grocer.

This also allows you to consider what the stores may be buying these products for, and determine what price range you can sell your product to the grocer for.

Market Research and Vendor Request Form

Market research is essential to launching your product and seeing it take off successfully. Look at what your target market is buying, what they expect from these grocers, and how they decide which products to buy. Not only will this help you tailor your product to the grocery store, but it will help your product stay successful once it’s on the shelf.

Once you’ve done that, it’s time to talk about the vendor request form. You can typically download this online or register online with the grocer directly. This is where you will supply all the necessary information for your product such as FDA audits, food certificates, proof of liability insurance, and any other kind of documentation you’ll need to show the grocer.

Meet Distributors and Category Managers

Before you visit your local grocer, you’ll want to meet distributors and category managers first. Distributors, if you don’t already have one, should be the first on your list of priorities as they will help you distribute your product into retail stores. Showcasing product samples during your meeting with distributors helps, as they can provide you with feedback about the pitch and product potential before you meet with category managers.

A category manager works within the retailer on certain categories of products. For example, snacks, dairy, and products are all different categories. When you feel ready, your distributor can help you get in touch with the category manager for your product type at your local grocer.

Present Your Product

When you’re ready to present your product, you’ll be pitching your product directly to grocers. During these discussions, you’ll be able to discuss profit margins, stock timelines, and how often to ship new products. (2) Confidence helps keep the product desirable, but you will need to maintain some flexibility and work within their bounds as well.

“When approaching potential distributors, ensure you show you are passionate about your product. Be enthusiastic and demonstrate your true confidence in your product line.”
– Forbes

Until your product becomes better known, grocers may want to stock your product on a consignment basis to remove potential risk from their side. This means that you’ll ship the product to them, and they pay you for it once it sells. While it requires an up-front investment on your side, it’s well worth it to test that local market.

Woman shopping

Additional Things You Should Consider After Pitching Your Product

Once you’ve pitched your product once, it doesn’t mean you should stop innovating your product. If there’s one thing customers and store managers like, it’s improvements and variations of products to show that you’re always looking at customer feedback. Below, you’ll find some additional things you should consider after pitching your product to a big retailer.

Attractive, Accurate Product Packaging

Product packaging alone will take your product far. Product packaging should be fun, functional, and easy to read.

Ensuring that the packaging meets all U.S. food and drug administration guidelines for its type will allow grocery stores to stock your product.

Moreover, attractive packaging will help customers notice the new product on the shelves. The more customers who pick up your product, the more they will be comparing it to their normal choice and put it in their basket.

Don’t Stop Marketing

One big mistake that product manufacturers and suppliers make when they start getting their products into grocery stores is to stop marketing. Never stop marketing your product, even if it’s to tell your existing customer base about your product’s availability in a new store.

Plus, targeted advertising for the grocery store’s location is always a smart move. Depending on the retailer’s advertising agreement, you may be able to advertise directly to your potential market that your product is available in their area.

Do You Need Any Additional Permits or Forms?

When you’re pitching your product to different stores, you might be thrown off your groove if you come across a retailer asking for additional permits or forms for your product that you haven’t needed before.
If you are manufacturing food in a certain city or distributing it to a new state, you may need additional permits from that state’s department of health. You should always look at state regulations whenever you sell your product in a new state.

Grocery store exterior

Types of Grocers and Retailers

There are many different types and subtypes of retailers, each has different qualifications and procedures for accepting new products onto their shelves. Below is a brief list and description of each:

Conventional Supermarkets

These supermarkets are typically the community’s go-to market for daily essentials. They mostly feature a range of fresh produce, canned goods, and other types of foods. While not the focus of the store, they may also sport a small range of basic non-food products like pet supplies, beauty products, cleaning essentials, and pharmacy items. These stores typically have a category manager or product manager that you will be speaking with when you pitch your product.

Independent Stores

These stores are typically ones that have a limited range of goods for sale but have a more eclectic mix. They may be mom-and-pop style markets, or they could be regional chains in the process of upgrading.
Overall, these stores are easier to showcase a new product in, and you may talk to a manager or the store owner directly when pitching your product. While the barrier to entry can be lower with these stores, they typically work on consignment to lower their investment costs until they know the product will sell reliably enough.

Supercenters

Supercenters are well known for being conventional supermarkets-meets department stores. You can find a range of clothing, auto care products, toys, electronics, and seasonal items in this store, in addition to what you can typically find in a supermarket. These stores typically work with category managers to help determine which products get put on the shelves.

Warehouse Clubs

Membership-based warehouse clubs offer wholesale products to their customers, typically in semi-bulk quantities. It’s common for local businesses to shop for ingredients at these stores, as they save money over buying at supermarkets and can buy the quantities they need. You will likely be talking with a category manager or the store manager when discussing your product for this type of store.

Convenience Stores

This store type, also known as corner stores, provides neighborhoods with convenient options for grab-and-go shopping. Typically attached to a gas station or another type of store, you’ll find a small assortment of essentials like eggs, milk, paper towels, snacks, and drinks. Typically, the store manager or owner will discuss new product placement in this setting.

Maco PKG Can Help Your Product Shine

Can’t wait to get your product on the market? Give your product the best shot at success.
Let Maco PKG help your product shine with prototype-to-production help at making unique and functional branding according to your packaging protocols. Get in touch with our team to start discussing your product today.

References

  1. HuffPost, Simple Strategies to Increase Your Sales Performance, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/simple-strategies-to-increase-your-sales-performance_b_5a42d707e4b0d86c803c73be
  2. Forbes, 5 Steps to Approaching a Wholesale Grocery Distributor with Your Product Line, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2022/06/29/5-steps-to-approaching-a-wholesale-grocery-distributor-with-your-product-line/?sh=4f63ae753eed
Dec 06
1

Rigid Packaging vs Flexible Packaging: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Each

By | Flexible Packaging | No Comments

When deciding on a packaging option for your product, you will likely come across two main types: rigid and flexible. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages which we will explore in this article. Rigid packaging is a rigid box or container that is made from materials such as plastic, metal, or cardboard. It is not flexible and does not deform when pressure is applied. Flexible packaging, on the other hand, is a bag or pouch made from materials such as plastic or laminated paper. It can be stretched and deformed when pressure is applied. Let’s take a closer look at each type of packaging.

What is rigid packaging?

Rigid packaging is a rigid box or container that is made from materials such as plastic, metal, or cardboard. It is not flexible and does not deform when pressure is applied. Rigid packaging can be either reusable or disposable. Some examples of rigid packaging include:

  • Plastic bottles
  • Metal cans
  • Cardboard boxes

What are the advantages of rigid packaging?

There are several advantages to using rigid packaging:

  • Provides more protection for the product since it is not flexible and cannot be easily deformed.
  • Can be stackable, which is helpful for storage and transportation.
  • Often seen as more high-end and luxurious since it has a rigid, solid form.
  • It is tamper-resistant and provides good product protection.
  • It is easy to handle and transport.
  • Rigid packaging can be recycled.

What are the disadvantages of rigid packaging?

There are also some disadvantages to using rigid packaging:

  • It is more expensive than flexible packaging.
  • It can be heavy and bulky.
  • Rigid packaging often generates more waste than flexible packaging.

What is flexible packaging?

Flexible packaging is a bag or pouch made from materials such as plastic or laminated paper. It can be stretched and deformed when pressure is applied. Flexible packaging can be either heat-sealed or glued. Some examples of flexible packaging include:

  • Plastic bags
  • Stand-up pouches
  • Zipper pouches
  • Gusseted bags

What are the advantages of flexible packaging?

There are several advantages to using flexible packaging:

  • It is less expensive than rigid packaging.
  • It takes up less space and is lighter than rigid packaging, making it more efficient for storage and transportation.
  • It can be easily customized to fit the product.
  • It can be printed on both sides, allowing for more branding and marketing opportunities.
  • Flexible packaging is often seen as more sustainable since it generates less waste than rigid packaging.

What are the disadvantages of flexible packaging?

There are also some disadvantages to using flexible packaging:

  • It provides less protection for the product since it is stretchy and can be easily deformed.
  • Flexible packaging is not as rigid and solid as rigid packaging, which can give the impression that the product is lower quality.
  • It can be difficult to open and often requires scissors or a knife.

Which type of packaging is better?

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to rigid vs flexible packaging. It all depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some companies prefer rigid packaging because it provides more protection for the product and gives a luxurious feel. Others prefer flexible packaging because it is less expensive and takes up less space. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which type of packaging is best for your product.

Do consumers prefer rigid or flexible packaging?

A study conducted by the Freedonia Group found that 54% of consumers prefer rigid packaging while 46% prefer flexible packaging. The study also found that rigid packaging is more popular with older consumers while flexible packaging is more popular with younger consumers.

What products is rigid packaging ideal for?

Rigid packaging is often used for products that are:

  • Fragile: rigid packaging provides more protection for fragile products such as glass bottles and ceramic dishes.
  • Expensive: rigid packaging gives the product a luxurious feel which is ideal for high-end products such as perfume and jewelry.
  • Food items: rigid packaging keeps food items fresh and prevents them from being squished or deformed, making it ideal for products such as eggs, milk, and yogurt.

What products is flexible packaging ideal for?

Flexible packaging is often used for products that are:

  • Non-fragile: flexible packaging does not provide as much protection as rigid packaging, making it better suited for products that are not fragile such as clothes and shoes.
  • Inexpensive: flexible packaging is less expensive to produce than rigid packaging, making it ideal for products that are not high-end.
  • Food items: flexible packaging takes up less space than rigid packaging, making it ideal for food items such as cereal, snacks, and granola bars.

Who uses rigid packaging?

Rigid packaging is often used for products that require a high level of protection, such as electronics, glassware, and medical devices. It is also commonly used for food and beverage products, such as milk, soda, and soup.

Who uses flexible packaging?

Flexible packaging is often used for products that are lightweight and easy to store, such as cereal, granola, and snacks. It is also commonly used for frozen foods, such as ice cream and frozen vegetables.

Examples of companies that use rigid packaging

Some examples of companies that use rigid packaging:

  • Apple: rigid packaging is used for products such as the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook.
  • Dove: rigid packaging is used for Dove soap bars and body wash bottles.
  • Head & Shoulders: rigid packaging is used for Head & Shoulders shampoo and conditioner bottles.
  • Nike: rigid packaging is used for Nike shoes and apparel.
  • Samsung: rigid packaging is used for Samsung electronics such as smartphones and tablets.

Examples of companies that use flexible packaging?

Some examples of companies that use flexible packaging:

  • L’Oreal: flexible packaging is used for L’Oreal shampoo and conditioner bottles.
  • Gatorade: flexible packaging is used for Gatorade sports drinks.
  • Pringles: flexible packaging is used for Pringles chips.
  • Tide: flexible packaging is used for Tide laundry detergent.
  • P&G: flexible packaging is used for P&G products such as diapers, shampoo, and conditioner.
  • Hershey’s: flexible packaging is used for Hershey’s chocolate bars.

How to choose rigid vs flexible packaging

There are many factors to consider when choosing rigid vs flexible packaging. Some things to keep in mind include:

  • The type of product you are selling: rigid packaging is better for fragile products while flexible packaging is better for non-fragile products.
  • The cost: rigid packaging is more expensive to produce than flexible packaging.
  • The space: rigid packaging takes up more space than flexible packaging.
  • Consumer preference: rigid packaging is more popular with older consumers while flexible packaging is more popular with younger consumers.
  • The company: rigid packaging is used by companies such as Apple, Nike, and Samsung while flexible packaging is used by companies such as L’Oreal, Tide, and Hershey’s.
  • Your company’s branding: rigid packaging gives the product a luxurious feel while flexible packaging is more casual.
  • Is the product edible: rigid packaging keeps food items fresh while flexible packaging is better for food items that do not need to be refrigerated.
  • Shipping and transportation considerations: rigid packaging is better for products that need to be shipped in a box while flexible packaging can be shipped in a envelope.

What are the cost differences between rigid vs flexible packaging?

The cost of rigid packaging vs flexible packaging depends on many factors, such as the type of material used, the size and shape of the packaging, the printing process, and the quantity ordered. In general, rigid packaging is more expensive to produce than flexible packaging.

Rigid packaging is more expensive because it requires more material and labor to produce. The rigid packaging process also generally takes longer than the flexible packaging process.

What is the environmental impact of rigid vs flexible packaging?

Rigid packaging is more likely to be recycled than flexible packaging. However, rigid packaging also has a larger environmental impact because it requires more energy and resources to produce.

Flexible packaging is less likely to be recycled than rigid packaging. However, flexible packaging has a smaller environmental impact because it requires less energy and resources to produce.

Contact the experts at Maco PKG

If you are still unsure of which type of packaging to choose, the best thing to do is to experiment with both and see which one works better for your products and your company. It’s important to choose the one that best meets your needs.

Ultimately, the decision of rigid vs flexible packaging comes down to personal preference and what type of product you are selling. If you are still unsure of which option to choose, consider consulting with a packaging expert at Maco PKG.

For over 80 years Maco PKG has been recognized as a knowledgeable and responsible manufacturer, supplying high-quality rigid and flexible packaging, co-packing and assembly services at reasonable prices. Whatever the size of your packaging needs, we can help you determine which option is best for your product. Contact us today to learn more!

Dec 06
1

Flexible Food Packaging is the Future: Here Are the Reasons Why

By | Flexible Packaging | No Comments

In the world of food packaging, flexible packaging is king. With its many benefits over traditional rigid packaging, flexible food packaging is quickly taking over as the preferred method for storing and transporting food. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about flexible food packaging, from what it is to how it’s impacting the food industry to why consumers are loving it. We’ll also take a look at some of the different types of flexible food packaging and how they’re being used by major food companies around the world. So if you’re looking for an in-depth look at flexible food packaging and why it’s the wave of the future, you’ve come to the right place!

What is flexible food packaging?

Flexible food packaging is a type of packaging that is made from flexible materials, such as paper, foil, film, or fabric. Flexible food packaging can be easily molded or shaped to fit the contours of the product it is packaging. This makes flexible food packaging perfect for products that are irregular in shape, such as chips, pretzels, or produce.

Flexible food packaging was developed in the early 1900s. The first flexible food packages were made from waxed paper and were used to package butter, cheese, and coffee.

The flexible food packaging market is expected to grow from $37.78 billion in 2018 to $52.43 billion by 2023 and is expected to reach $37 billion by 2025. This growth can be attributed to the many benefits flexible food packaging offers over traditional rigid packaging, such as cans and bottles.

There are a number of reasons for this rapid growth. One reason is the increasing demand for convenient and easy-to-use packaging solutions that can help to extend the shelf life of food products. Flexible food packaging is perfect for this, as it can be resealable and often has a built-in closure system, such as a zip-lock.

Another reason for the growth of flexible food packaging is the increasing demand for sustainability in the food industry. Flexible food packaging is often made from recycled materials, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of food packaging. Additionally, flexible food packaging can be easily recycled, which further reduces its environmental footprint.

What are the benefits of flexible food packaging?

There are many benefits of flexible food packaging, which is why it is quickly becoming the preferred method of packaging for food companies around the world. Some of the benefits of flexible food packaging include:

  • Reduced shipping costs: Flexible food packaging takes up less space than traditional rigid packaging, which means that more products can be shipped in a smaller amount of space. This reduces shipping costs and helps food companies save money.
  • Increased shelf life: Flexible food packaging protects food products from oxygen and moisture, which means that they have a longer shelf life. This is especially beneficial for perishable foods, such as produce, that need to be kept fresh for as long as possible.
  • Tamper-resistant: Flexible food packaging is more difficult to tamper with than traditional rigid packaging. This helps to ensure that food products are safe to eat and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
  • Eco-friendly: Flexible food packaging is often made from recycled materials, which makes it more eco-friendly than traditional packaging options.
  • Consumer friendly: Flexible food packaging is easy to open and reseal, which makes it more convenient for consumers. This convenience often leads to increased sales for food companies that use flexible packaging.
  • It’s convenient: Flexible packaging is easy to store and doesn’t take up a lot of space.
  • It’s easy to open: You don’t need any special tools to open flexible packaging.
  • It’s resealable: You can easily reseal flexible packaging, which helps food stay fresh for longer.
  • It protects food: Flexible packaging protects food from oxygen and moisture, which helps it stay fresh for longer.
  • It’s safe: Flexible packaging is more difficult to tamper with than traditional packaging, which helps to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
  • Improved production efficiency: Flexible packaging is often easier and faster to fill and seal than traditional packaging, which helps to improve production efficiency.
  • Reduced waste: Flexible packaging can be easily recycled or reused, which helps to reduce waste.
    Improved branding: Flexible packaging can be easily customized with branding elements, such as logos and colors, which helps to improve brand Recognition.

Are there any disadvantages to flexible food packaging?

While flexible food packaging has many benefits, there are some potential disadvantages to consider as well. Some of the potential disadvantages of flexible food packaging include:

  • Leakage: Flexible food packaging is not airtight, which means that there is a risk of leakage. This can be a problem for foods that need to be kept fresh, such as produce.
  • Increased costs: Flexible food packaging often costs more than traditional rigid packaging. This is because flexible packaging requires special equipment to fill and seal.
  • Tearing: Flexible food packaging can tear easily, which can damage food products.

What products are best suited for flexible food packaging?

Flexible food packaging is suitable for a wide variety of food products, including:

  • Bakery items: Bread, rolls, pastries, cookies, cakes, pies, etc.
  • Canned goods: Soup, vegetables, fruits, tuna, chicken, etc.
  • Dairy products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, etc.
  • Dry goods: Rice, pasta, cereal, nuts, seeds, etc.
  • Frozen foods: Meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruit, etc.
  • Snack foods: Chips, pretzels, popcorn, nuts, etc.
  • Fresh produce: Fruit, vegetables, herbs, etc.
  • Liquids: Juice, soda, water, etc.
  • Meat, fish and seafood: Fresh, frozen or canned.
  • Sauces, condiments and cooking aids: Oil, vinegar, ketchup, mustard, etc.
  • Baby food and toddler food: Formula, purees, snacks, etc.
  • Coffee and tea: Ground coffee, tea bags, etc.
  • Bulk foods for hospitals and other institutional settings: Rice, flour, sugar, etc.

How do food companies benefit from flexible food packaging?

Flexible food packaging offers many benefits to food companies, including:

  • Reduced production costs: Flexible packaging is often cheaper to produce than traditional packaging, which helps to reduce production costs.
  • Increased sales: Flexible packaging is often more convenient for consumers, which can lead to increased sales.
  • Improved brand recognition: Flexible packaging can be easily customized with branding elements, such as logos and colors, which helps to improve brand recognition.
  • Reduced waste: Flexible packaging can be easily recycled or reused, which helps to reduce waste.

What are the different types of flexible food packaging?

There are many different types of flexible food packaging, which can be categorized into three main types:

  • Bags: Bags are the most common type of flexible food packaging. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be made from different materials, such as plastic, paper, or fabric.
  • Pouches: Pouches are a type of bag that is often used for liquid or semi-solid foods, such as soup or sauce. Pouches are available in a variety of sizes and can be made from different materials, such as plastic, paper, or foil.
  • Wraps: Wraps are a type of flexible food packaging that is often used for wrapping sandwiches or other types of food. Wraps are available in a variety of sizes and can be made from different materials, such as paper, foil, or cellophane.

Why are consumers willing to pay more for flexible packaging?

Consumers are willing to spend more for flexible packaging because it offers a number of advantages over traditional rigid packaging. Flexible food packaging is often resealable, which helps to keep food fresh for longer. Additionally, flexible food packaging is often lighter and takes up less space, making it more convenient to transport. And because flexible food packaging can be easily customized, it provides consumers with an opportunity to choose packaging that is stylish and eye-catching.

How is flexible food packaging the wave of the future?

Flexible food packaging is the wave of the future because it offers many benefits to food companies and consumers alike. Flexible packaging is often cheaper to produce than traditional packaging, which helps to reduce production costs. Additionally, flexible packaging is often more convenient for consumers, which can lead to increased sales. Moreover, flexible packaging can be easily customized with branding elements, such as logos and colors, which helps to improve brand recognition. Finally, flexible packaging can be easily recycled or reused, which helps to reduce waste. Flexible food packaging is the wave of the future because it is more efficient, convenient, and eco-friendly than traditional packaging options.

Maco PKG has you covered

Looking for a flexible food packaging solution? Maco PKG has you covered. With more than 80 years of experience in flexible food packaging, we offer a wide variety of paper bags, foil pouches, film rolls, and stand-up pouches. Our flexible food packaging is perfect for a wide variety of food products, including dry goods, fresh produce, frozen foods, and prepared meals. Contact us today to learn more about our flexible food packaging solutions or click here to learn more about our flexible packaging solutions.

Jul 28
1
Why Use Aluminum Foil Packaging

Why Use Aluminum Foil Packaging

By | Flexible Packaging | No Comments

Protect your products and enjoy iconic marketing solutions with aluminum foil packaging. Foil flexible packaging comes in a variety of designs and offers significant benefits for your company and your products. Read on to discover how choosing foil as your packaging material can help you improve your food, medical or industrial products.

Advantages of Aluminum Foil Packaging

Aluminum is a durable material that can be used to line packages and seal your products. Here are the main advantages of using this material for your products:

  • Oxygen, light and odor barrier
  • Temperature-resistant packaging
  • Flexible sizing
  • Bacteria-resistant material
  • Cost-effective solution
  • Iconic colors and printing

Oxygen and light exposure can dramatically reduce the shelf life of many products. Don’t expose your pharmaceutical or food offerings to bacteria or oxygen, but seal them with foil packaging. This encourages stores to order more of your products.

An aluminum foil food package can be safely heated in an oven. As long as you don’t use a foil-lined paper product or other option, you can create packaging that serves as a heating tray for your customers.

Foil can be manufactured in virtually any dimension. It’s very easy to adjust the length, width and thickness of material, allowing you to customize your packaging to fit your items and your marketing strategy.

Many packages allow bacteria and odors to pass through, even when sealed. Aluminum is a great barrier for both harmful bacteria and unpleasant odors. An odor barrier is useful if your product has a strong odor or can easily take on surrounding smells.

Thanks to bulk manufacturing strategies, aluminum costs and the extended lifetime of foil-packaged products, this manufacturing solution allows you to cut down on your supply costs. Grow your business by lowering production costs when you choose foil as your packaging material.

Help your products stand out with expertly designed packages. Bags, pouches and other foil packaging can come in a wide range of colors and be printed with your chosen marketing material and product specifications. The shape, color and design of your aluminum packaging is entirely in your control, giving you the resources you need for eye-catching designs.

Features of Foil Packaging

This packaging solution is relatively new in the United States, but many European manufacturers have been using foil for some time. Whether pure foil or a laminate product, these materials are at the cutting edge of food-safe solutions.

One of the main benefits of this material solution is its diverse features. You don’t have to use pure aluminum foil to wrap your items for industrial, food or medical use. Instead, consider foil-lined flexible packaging.
Foil lining can be tailored to your particular product and used with multiple materials. Use it with a paper exterior, adhesive or organic solution. Because of the flexibility of foil, you can customize the inner and outer layers to fit your specifications.

Modern printing gives you complete control of the design of your packaging. Create vibrant labels using bold colors and iconic images to help your products stand out. For industrial and medical items, labels provide the necessary information to protect consumers.

Not every foil package manufacturer can offer these features and benefits. When choosing a co-packer, make sure you discuss your packaging problems and logistical situation to verify that they have the capabilities you need.

Packaging for the Food Industry

There are a diverse range of packaging materials and designs for your food products. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your options, or looking for a new way to keep contents fresh, consider foil. Here are some benefits of this versatile material for food industry use:

  • Custom packaging sizes
  • Extended product lifetime
  • Low-cost solution

Choose foil packaging for food products to keep out bacteria and enjoy enhanced odor protection. Candy, dairy products and coffee are popular options for foil packaging, but there are many other suitable food industry products.

Aluminum isn’t recommended for use with salty or acidic foods. Aluminum ions can affect these products if stored in direct contact. For best results, use a composite film lining to enjoy the benefits of aluminum without the risk of dissolving aluminum ions.

Options for Industrial Packaging

Keep your company moving forward with the pinnacle of industrial packaging. Here are some key benefits of choosing foil for your industrial products:

  • Bulk order capabilities
  • Customizable size and label designs
  • Streamlined manufacturing process

Industrial products need to be protected from odors, fumes and other adverse environmental factors. Package these products with foil flexible packaging to maintain product integrity and OEM standards. While industrial products may not need to be wrapped in food-safe packaging, they do need to arrive at client locations without being compromised.

Industrial products may not come with expiration dates, but they can still be affected by bacteria, oxygen and light. Foil is a flexible solution to industrial packaging demands. Choose this cost-effective, fully customizable solution for a prototype or bulk order of industrial components.

Benefits of Medical Foil Packaging

Just like food products, it’s crucial to keep medical products safe from the effects of bacteria and oxygen exposure. Find dynamic medical packaging solutions with foil to enjoy these benefits:

  • Sterile packaging
  • Easy-open packaging
  • Composite laminate solutions to avoid aluminum ion exposure

Pharmaceuticals and other medical products demand the same level of product safety. Order foil bags or other flexible packaging to protect vitamins and supplements from the adverse effects of oxygen and light.

Medical foil packaging doesn’t just protect these materials, but also offers a great way to customize packaging. Pharmaceuticals must include a long list of warnings, recommendations and information about the contents. Failure to do so could put consumers at risk. Order custom packaging that includes all the necessary information for your medical products.

Order Foil Packaging Today

Don’t let poor packaging damage your products or hold your company back. Request a quote from Maco PKG to enjoy affordable custom foil packaging for your industry. Explore our custom solutions and discuss your product specifications to receive the industry solution you deserve. Discuss your packaging requirements with our design team today for industry-leading solutions.

Feb 25
1
Liquid Filling

Why You Should Choose Contract Packaging

By | Custom Contract Packaging | No Comments

You have a great product and you’re ready for a more widespread distribution strategy. But you just don’t have the time, money, space or other resources to invest in expensive packaging equipment or additional staff.

You need a contract packaging partner.

Also known as co-packing, contract packaging is when a company hires another business to package their goods, assemble, and/or warehouse and distribute the finished products.

There are many reasons why contract packaging may be right for your business. Here are the top four benefits of outsourcing to a contract packaging company.

1. In-House Cost Savings

If you lack the available in-house equipment for a particular job, contract packaging could help you save money while still keeping up with demand for your products. Co-packers allow you to access efficient and high speed manufacturing without having to spend money on up-front equipment costs.

Outsourcing to a Co-packer will help you maximize your profits by saving you time and the investments needed to buy new machinery, hire more staff, and expand your facility.

2. Packaging Expertise

Contract Packagers are in the business of handling a variety of product packaging needs. Perhaps you are releasing a brand new product and you’re not sure what kind of packaging would be best. Maybe you don’t have a manufacturing and packaging team. An experienced co-packing partner can take you from designing and prototyping to the final package manufacturing stage and product distribution.

Contract packaging companies often have an in-house design team that can bring your packaging vision to life. They also serve to ensure the best fit for your products and efficiency in production time.

This expertise will give you as the product manufacturer great flexibility in getting the packaging that works for your product line. It also allows you to focus on your business because you can rely on your co-packer to handle all the packaging details.

3. Expansion of Your Production Capacity and Capabilities

If you are having a hard time keeping up with production to meet the pace of your quickly growing business, a contract packager can help.

For example, you may be a beverage company adding powdered drink mix to your product portfolio. While you already have an efficient liquid fill line, you don’t have the machinery or space for packaging dry powders.

Contract packaging allows you to add to your product line without needing special packaging equipment or a bigger facility. Many contract packagers also offer warehousing and logistics support, such as storage after production and shipping products out.

These co-packing perks allow you to increase your product offerings while saving precious time and financial resources.

4. Utilizing Co-Packer’s Certifications

Packaging of food products and other goods requires many specific certifications. Rather than spending the time and money required to attain these credentials, why not work with a co-packer that already has the necessary certifications? Some examples include:

  • ISO 9001:2015 Certified

  • SQF 2000 Level 3

  • Kosher Capable

  • Certified Organic – Oregon Tilth

  • FDA Compliant

  • FDA Food Safety Modernization Act Compliant

  • Non-GMO Project Verified

  • Certified with Informed-Choice

Think contract packaging sounds right for your product, but not sure where to start? Give our team a call at (315) 226-1000 or reach out for a quote today.

Oct 28
1
Flexible Packaging for Food

The Top Five Benefits of Flexible Packaging for Food Manufacturers

By | Flexible Packaging, Uncategorized | No Comments

Today, top flexible packaging companies utilize innovative technologies that will set your product line ahead of the competition. 

From stand-up pouches to folded bottom and single serve pouches, food manufacturers have many options at their fingertips. 

Just what makes flexible packaging a great choice for your product offerings? Let’s explore the top five benefits of using flexible packaging for your product distribution strategy.

Flexible Packaging for Food

Flexible packaging clearly has many benefits for companies and consumers alike. Here’s a closer look at those top five benefits of flexible packaging for food manufacturers. 

Marketing Ability

The packaging around your product may be the first impression a consumer has of your offering. Flexible packaging is conducive to endless design possibilities. It can be constructed into any shape or size, and can be created to stand up or lay flat. 

The material also acts as the perfect canvas for eye-catching graphic design. Make your product stand out with a gloss matte or soft touch finish.

The ability to make design a prominent feature of your packaging affords you better brand recognition. With the right packaging, your product will stand out on the supermarket shelf, and can increase your sales overall. 

Convenience

One of the other endearing aspects of flexible packaging is the functional benefit for the consumer. Because the material is, for lack of a more original word, “flexible,” you can seal useful features into it, such as spouts or zip locks. 

A bag that you can reseal without needing a chip clip makes it easy and convenient to keep food fresh. 

Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Food Packaging

Sustainability

You may be surprised to learn that the flexible packaging of today is also eco-friendly. 

Flexible packaging uses fewer resources to produce. Many materials used can even be recycled or reused. 

The lightweight and compact nature of flexible packages make it easier to transport more of them using less fuel. 

Cost Effectiveness

The eco-friendly attributes of flexible packaging are what make these products cost effective as well. Because less materials are needed to produce flexible packages, they cost less. 

Even a bag constructed of multilayer films will cost less, as this creates a superior barrier that protects products from environmental conditions.

You can even put more product in a flexible package versus a traditional package. This cuts back on manufacturing costs. 

Finally, it costs less to transport packages that weigh less. 

Food Preservation

Flexible packaging is designed to be airtight. This quality makes it an excellent choice for preserving the contents within. Food goods are protected from environmental elements such as moisture, temperature, sunlight, and pests. Even after opening, features like a zip lock help keep the freshness in. 

As mentioned earlier, flexible packages are quite durable, and less prone to damage. Packages that stay intact will keep the food contained fresher for much longer. 

This may go without mentioning, but food exposed to the elements can spoil easily, and tarnish the reputation of your brand. Even worse, food that’s not at its freshest can pose the risk of food-borne illness. 

Choose flexible packaging to protect your customers and your brand reputation from stale goods. 

Is Flexible Packaging Right for Your Brand?

The flexible packaging experts at Maco PKG can help you find out.  We offer custom solutions and the best advice that the industry has to offer.

Maco offers both pre-made pouches and co-packing services to allow our customers flexibility. 

Call us today at +1-315-226-1000 or request a FREE quote and we’ll get in touch with you soon.

Nov 29
1

Would Your Product Benefit From Flexible Packaging?

By | Flexible Packaging, Packaging Process | No Comments

Consumer preferences have shifted over the past decade, with more customers than ever preferring simplified packaging that also reduces the waste associated with buying goods. This trend has been especially pronounced in the grocery market, but you can also see a shift toward flexible shipping materials in all kinds of delivery retail services.

If you’re weighing whether you should make the shift to flexible packaging, consider both its advantages and best practices, and consider whether your goods would do better in a flexible container.
What Is Flexible Packaging?
This kind of packaging covers a whole class of materials and construction designs. Simply put, it’s any kind of packaging for goods that can flex and bend during packing and shipping. It can include pouches and bags.

Rigid packaging, on the other hand, includes boxes and case materials, as well as anything else that is built to be sturdy and retain its shape.
What Are the Advantages of Flexible Packaging?
Today’s consumer preferences add additional advantages to flexible packaging, beyond the resilience and strength of its design. Using pouches to deliver soft or flexible foodstuffs like rice, soup mixes, honey, sugar, and dry baked mixes, for example, means delivering the product in a strong but soft container that allows it to absorb jostles and compression by changing shape. For rigid, breakable goods like chips and crackers, care in handling is needed, but flexible materials allow for minimal waste. Additional air can protect from damage by inflating the bag materials slightly, reducing the chance of damage.
Do You Need a Source for Flexible Packaging?
If you’re looking for a packaging supplier who can work with you to find the best flexible packaging options for your products, Maco Packaging can work with you to build the perfect packaging for your product. Contact our team today to request a quote for your custom packaging.

Nov 07
1

Stand-Up Liquid Packaging That Stands Up to Extreme Temperatures

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

We all know the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover.” But we also know, logically, that the literal cover of a book makes a substantial difference in the reading experience. If you don’t believe us, imagine the difference between a hard-cover and a soft-cover book. The hard-cover book protects the contents of the book far better than the measly soft-cover, and therefore the reader has a much easier and higher-quality experience using the book.

In a similar way, how you choose to package your liquid products makes a substantial difference in the quality and protection of your product, as well as your consumer’s experience and positive notions of your brand. The proper package for liquid food products ensures that the contents remain uncontaminated.

At Maco PKG, we believe stand-up liquid packaging meets this expectation. We create packages that are visually appealing and easy to use. We have over 80 years of experience in flexible packaging and offer an array of options suitable for food-based liquids including supplements, beverages, and condiments.

Benefits of Stand-Up Pouches for Liquid Packaging

As a cost-effective and efficient way to store a product, it is no wonder that stand-up pouches are a popular liquid packaging option. But using pouches for packaging liquids also protects your product from bacteria and oxidation.

Stand-up pouches are also hassle-free and appreciated by customers. Pouches create a more inviting display and are easy to store on both a store counter and in a pantry at home. The pouches pour out liquids in a clean and measurable manner when they include a spout, and zippers make them re-sealable after an initial opening, thus eliminating the need for users to find another storage option.

You can customize your pouch packaging through prints, colors, shapes, and sizes.

Benefits of Hot and Cold Liquids Packaging

At Maco PKG, we pride ourselves on using technology that can package liquids ranging in temperature from ambient to 185 degrees Fahrenheit. We even have the ability to heat bulk product up to 205 degrees before filling, when necessary.  Packaging a liquid while it is hot is important for:

o Meeting FDA regulations

o Meeting Global Food Safety Initiative regulations

o Avoiding contamination

o Reducing the risk of food safety issues related to spoilage and microbiological growth

We are also equipped to store ingredients under refrigeration while they await conversion so that your product is kept fresh.

With the ability to fill liquids from room temperature to 185 degrees, you can rest assured that your temperature-specific products will be packaged safely and accurately.

Liquid Packaging With Maco PKG

Stand-up liquid packaging is an effective way to market a product. When working with MacoPKG, it is also an efficient method, as we can meet your design and temperature needs. We are also FDA compliant and certified by the International Organization for Standardization and the Safe Quality Food Level Three.

To develop the proper packaging option for your product, our team considers specifications necessary for all the steps, from filling and shipping, to storing and selling. Contact us about your liquid packaging needs.

Oct 01
1
blister packing

Why Custom Blister Packing Is Great for Medical Supplies and Products

By | Custom Contract Packaging | No Comments

When plastic or foil is shaped around a product to form an airtight compartment for a single item, it is considered to have blister packing. Blister packing is a clean, dust-free packaging solution.

Blister packing is typically associated with products like batteries and toy cars, but it provides many advantages for medical products as well. Whether you need to package food, filters, or capsules, here are the reasons to consider blister packaging: Read More

Sep 13
1
organic food packaging

Creative Challenges in Organic Food Packaging

By | Organic packaging | No Comments

Organic food producers are at a slight disadvantage when it comes to marketing because they are competing on two different fronts: non-organic food producers on one side and fellow organic producers on the other.

The packaging must not only present the food in an appealing way but also in a way that’s in line with the organic food industry’s reputation for wholesomeness and purity. Generally speaking, organic packaging should reflect the ethos of its producer.

Here we will examine some specific qualities that organic packaging can include in order to combine sales appeal with integrity. Read More