• Value-engineered packaging is a design strategy that emphasizes maximizing value while minimizing cost, considering the requirements of the product and the consumer and the materials, design, and manufacturing processes. 
• For B2B enterprises making consumer goods, value-engineered packaging can offer cost-effectiveness, sustainability, personalization, effective fulfillment, and brand enhancement. 
• Market research company Nielsen found that 66% of consumers worldwide are prepared to pay more for sustainable products, making sustainability a primary issue for many businesses and their clients. Value-engineered packaging aims to reduce waste and the package's ecological footprint by considering the environmental impact of packaging throughout the packaging's entire lifecycle, from raw materials to disposal.

As a purchasing manager, you are aware of how crucial packaging is for creating and marketing any product. However, it is easy to become engrossed in the excitement of developing the brand or the product itself while neglecting the packaging. This may result in your company choosing a generic, off-the-shelf box, which might not be the most economical or practical choice. 

Let's talk about value-engineered packaging. This design strategy adopts an engineering viewpoint. The outcome is a unique packaging solution tailored to your product's requirements, lowering costs and improving fulfillment process effectiveness. And it is never too late, value engineered packaging addresses new but also existing packaging solutions.  

What is value-engineered packaging?

Value-engineered packaging is a design strategy that emphasizes increasing package value while lowering costs. It entails adopting an engineering viewpoint and taking into account variables like cost, security, performance, and sustainability right away in the design process. The objective is to develop a custom packaging solution that addresses the unique requirements of a product, lowering costs and improving fulfillment process effectiveness. Value-engineered packaging also involves standardizing packaging for various products to leverage economies of scale and lower recurring expenses. In general, value-engineered packaging is a technique for developing practical, affordable packaging that satisfies the requirements of the product and the client. Right now, all you require is a packaging engineer!

What are the key characteristics and skills of a sound packaging engineer?

An expert who creates and prototypes unique product packaging is known as a packaging engineer. While considering elements like cost, security, performance, and sustainability, they employ their technical and creative skills to develop packaging that satisfies the requirements of the product and the client. 

The following are some specific abilities and traits that a packaging engineer might have:

• Design skills: Engineers use design software and tools to develop prototypes and visual representations of their packaging concepts. They should be well-versed in design principles and capable of efficiently conveying their thoughts using optical means.
• Engineering skills: Engineering fundamentals should be well-understood by packaging engineers so they can apply them to packaging design. This could involve understanding production procedures, structural analysis, and material science.
• Problem-solving skills: Packaging engineers must be able to recognize issues and devise original solutions. This could entail raising sustainability, enhancing performance, or lowering expenses.
• Communication skills: Packaging engineers must clearly explain their concepts and plans to various parties, including customers, suppliers, and other team members.
• Creativity: To develop cutting-edge packaging solutions, packaging engineers should have a creative attitude and be able to think beyond the box.
• Attention to detail: The performance of the packaging is affected by a variety of little details that make up the design of the packaging. Package experts must be aware of the situation and ensure that every aspect of the packaging has been carefully considered.
• Flexibility: Packaging engineers must be flexible and able to change course as necessary because packaging design is subject to regular updates and revisions.
• Collaborative mindset: Packaging engineers frequently collaborate closely with clients, suppliers, and other members of the design team. They should function well in a team setting and have a communal perspective.

‍Why do we think that value-engineered packaging is the future?

A. Cost efficiency

The demand for value-engineered packaging is anticipated to increase dramatically, with the worldwide packaging market predicted to reach $1.05 trillion by 2024. Cost-effectiveness is one of the critical advantages of value-engineered packaging. Qualified packaging engineers may develop solutions that minimize costs and waste by considering various elements during the packaging design process. Companies can lower their overall packaging costs, for instance, by creating packaging that uses less material or makes better use of available space.

B. Sustainability 

Many B2B organizations place a high value on sustainability, as do their clients. Market research company Nielsen found that 66% of consumers worldwide are prepared to pay more for sustainable products, and packaging is a crucial area where sustainability can be enhanced. The environmental impact of packaging is considered during value-engineered packaging. Package experts may provide solutions that decrease waste and lessen the environmental impact of the packaging by taking into account the entire packaging lifespan, from raw materials to disposal. For instance, businesses can increase sustainability by employing recycled materials or developing packaging that is simple to recycle.

C. Customization

Value-engineered packaging is made to meet the particular requirements of each product and consumer because every product is different. This enables your business to develop packaging solutions that satisfy the specific needs of your products and enhance the client experience. For instance, value-engineered packaging can create a solution that effectively protects the product while being affordable if your product needs protective packaging to prevent damage during transit.

D. Efficient fulfillment

Every business must have effective fulfillment, and value-engineered packaging is made to maximize fulfillment effectiveness. Packaging experts can develop solutions that simplify the handling and shipping of goods by considering elements like weight, size, and convenience. For instance, your business can lower shipping costs and boost the general effectiveness of your fulfillment process by creating lightweight and straightforward packaging.

E. Brand enhancement

Value-engineered packaging is more than just a box; it's a chance to improve the product experience for your customers and build your brand. Your business may distinguish itself from rivals and make a good impression on clients by designing visually appealing and simple-to-use packaging. 89% of consumers say they are more inclined to conduct business with a firm if they had a pleasant experience with the packaging, according to a survey by Epsilon.

In conclusion, value-engineered packaging is the way of the future for B2Bb2b businesses that manufacture consumer goods. It minimizes costs and waste while offering cost-effectiveness, sustainability, personalization, effective fulfillment, and brand enhancement. By investing in value-engineered packaging, you may develop a solution that satisfies the demands of your products, your company, and your customers.

At Packmatic, we can help you find the perfect value-engineered packaging solutions at ease. Book an appointment with one of our specialists today!