Today’s consumers seek companies that are proactive when it comes to environmental preservation and social responsibility. This trend has pushed many retailers and manufacturers to adopt sustainability practices. These strategies extend from delivery to pouch packaging services. These are a few trends companies should consider.
Increasing Manufacturing Transparency
Customers have become increasingly curious about how products are manufactured. Therefore, many companies have adopted transparency strategies. They are open about the raw materials and manufacturing processes they follow.
These companies are especially transparent about their sustainability practices, from recycling to lean manufacturing. Even green supply chain strategies are being shared with consumers.
Introducing Linerless Labels
Some companies, from manufacturers to distributors and retailers, have adopted linerless labels. Traditionally, adhesive labels come with a backing that must be removed before the label can be used. However, today’s label manufacturers have produced new products that have silicone coatings that prevent the labels from sticking together on the roll.
Not only can manufacturers fit twice as many labels on a roll, but their waste is significantly reduced. They need less warehousing space to store these labels, and can create safer workspaces because the label liners aren’t prone to gathering on the floor creating slip-and-fall dangers. Another package reduction strategy involves mylar bag printing, which eliminates labels and their liners.
Use What You Need With Packaging Downsizing
In the past, manufacturers adopted packaging that made it look like it contained more products than it did. Many consumers remember opening a bag of chips or a container of cocoa that was only half full. This was not only frustrating to the consumer, but it also increased packaging waste significantly.
In addition, many online retailers put even small products in large boxes. Although this increased the efficiency of the boxing process, it created significant packaging waste. To reduce this waste, many manufacturers have adopted package downsizing strategies.
Reuse and Recycling
Due to the increase in online shopping, packaging waste has soared. In addition, retailers and manufacturers have warehouses full of unpurchased goods. Therefore, companies search for ways to reduce their waste, reuse products and recycle raw materials.
For example, many manufacturers have updated their product planning approach so they can more accurately determine the demand for their products, particularly seasonal items. In addition, manufacturers and online retailers have adopted reusable packaging strategies. Some retailers and even fast-food companies also have reusable products, such as shopping bags and cups. Manufacturers have also developed strategies that recycle waste into new products.
Workplace Upgrades
Today’s companies seek ways to save money, which often involves becoming more eco-friendly. For example, they are trading out high-energy incandescent and florescent lighting for LED bulbs. They have also adopted paperless strategies. They seek ethical supply chain strategies, such as partnering with companies and communities that have sustainable and ethical practices.
Companies also seek technological solutions that promote stewardship and sustainability. AI, cloud computing, automation and data-driven projects have become the focus of many business leaders.
Although adopting eco-friendly frozen food packaging for small business is a great start, today’s consumers are looking for companies that search out and adopt multiple sustainability strategies.