What makes great packaging? Is it eye-catching design? Premium materials? Sustainability?
To get real insights, we asked 10 experienced packaging designers what they believe makes a product’s packaging truly stand out.
Their answers reveal the key elements that can transform ordinary packaging into a powerful sales tool.
Let’s dive in.
1. Simplicity Sells
“The best packaging isn’t overcomplicated. It’s clear, clean, and instantly communicates the brand.” – Sophie L., Brand Consultant & Designer
Consumers make decisions in seconds. If they can’t understand what your product is or why they should buy it at a glance, you’re losing sales.
Takeaway:
- Minimalist packaging with bold fonts and simple graphics grabs attention.
- Avoid clutter—less is often more when it comes to impactful design.
- For frozen food bags, use high-contrast colors and clear product descriptions for quick recognition.
2. Colors Trigger Emotions
“Color psychology is everything. The right colors evoke trust, excitement, or even hunger.” – Marco R., Packaging Specialist
Big brands don’t pick colors randomly. Red stimulates appetite, blue builds trust, and green signals eco-friendliness.
Takeaway:
- Research which colors fit your product category.
- Use contrasting colors to stand out on crowded shelves.
- Side gusset bags for coffee? Try deep browns or matte blacks for a premium feel.
3. Storytelling Creates Connection
“A great package tells a story—it makes the customer feel something.” – Hannah B., Brand Strategist
Customers buy into stories, not just products. Packaging that shares the brand’s mission, origin, or values helps form a personal connection.
Takeaway:
- Include a short brand story or mission statement on the packaging.
- Use handwritten-style fonts or illustrations to enhance personality.
- If using fertilizer packaging bags, highlight how the product supports sustainable farming.
4. The Right Material Changes Everything
“Texture and material choice can make a product feel cheap or luxurious.” – Daniel K., Packaging Engineer
Shiny plastic may look cheap, while matte finishes or recycled kraft paper feel premium. Consumers judge quality just by touching the package.
Takeaway:
- For premium products, use soft-touch matte coatings.
- Sustainable packaging like biodegradable or compostable materials appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
- For side gusset bags, consider foil-lined or kraft options for a more premium appearance.
5. Functionality Matters
“A package must be practical. If it’s hard to open or store, customers won’t buy again.” – Emily W., UX Designer
Bad packaging = lost customers. Even the most beautiful design fails if it’s frustrating to use.
Takeaway:
- Resealable closures keep products fresh (essential for frozen food bags).
- Easy-tear notches prevent customer frustration.
- Test how the packaging fits in storage—bulky designs can be a dealbreaker.
6. Sustainability Isn’t Optional Anymore
“Eco-friendly packaging is no longer a trend—it’s an expectation.” – Chris T., Sustainable Packaging Consultant
Consumers are actively choosing brands that use less plastic, recycled materials, and compostable options.
Takeaway:
- If your packaging is eco-friendly, showcase it with clear icons.
- Switch to biodegradable or recyclable materials where possible.
- For fertilizer packaging bags, highlight how the materials support soil health and sustainability.
7. Customization Increases Brand Loyalty
“Personalized packaging makes customers feel special and more connected to the brand.” – Amanda P., Creative Director
Limited edition designs, customizable labels, or personalized messages make a huge impact.
Takeaway:
- Add QR codes that lead to personalized digital experiences.
- Use handwritten elements or custom names for small-batch packaging.
- Offer special edition packaging for holidays or events.
8. Typography Affects Readability & Brand Feel
“The wrong font can ruin great packaging. It must be clear, readable, and match the brand personality.” – Oliver D., Typography Artist
A bold, modern font screams innovation, while script fonts feel artisanal.
Takeaway:
- Use large, readable fonts for key details (especially for side gusset bags with vertical text).
- Stick to 2-3 font styles max for a clean look.
- Avoid thin, delicate fonts on busy backgrounds.
9. Packaging Size Optimization Saves Money
“Right-sizing packaging reduces costs and improves sustainability.” – Rachel M., Industrial Designer
Oversized packaging wastes materials and increases shipping fees. Smart brands use the smallest, most efficient design possible.
Takeaway:
- Design compact packaging that fits well in retail displays.
- Eliminate unnecessary layers to cut down costs.
- Frozen food bags should be optimized to reduce freezer space wastage.
10. Packaging Is an Advertisement
“Your package is the last ad customers see before they buy.” – Jonathan S., Marketing Consultant
If your packaging doesn’t convince customers to choose your brand over competitors, it’s failing.
Takeaway:
- Highlight a unique selling point on the front of the package.
- Use bold claims, benefit-driven copy, and social proof (like awards or reviews).
- Make sure the brand name and product type are clear at a glance.
Final Thoughts: What Makes Packaging Great?
Great packaging is a mix of design, functionality, and psychology.
If you’re launching a new product—or revamping an existing one—consider which of these expert tips you can apply.
Which of these strategies will you use for your next packaging design?
