Customer shopping behavior underwent a major shift – over a couple of past years when e-commerce sales grew by 20%. The reason for that is people wish for the convenience of reviewing products, looking for alternatives, and what other users think about the product before making an investment. Times are changing, but what remains constant is products that require functional primary packaging. Big brands and industry players are investing time and resources while changing their overall strategies to make sure their packaging can withstand all that may come their way. Five to six years ago, did we imagine a life where we could order our choice of mattress or couch, or essential items and have them delivered to our doorstep? There are myriad options available nowadays, especially in packaging production. It is easy to feel perplexed when it comes to choosing the right packaging solution.

However, there are multiple product packaging solutions: flexible and rigid, so which way to go? While nowadays, many suggest taking the road less traveled – innovative packaging solutions, what’s the difference between these two? There are applications where flexible packaging fits right and others where rigid packaging completes the picture.

In this post, we’ll discuss the different options and the right fit for your purpose.

Flexible Packaging

Many large brands are now choosing flexible product packaging over rigid containers for their products. Flexible pouches have replaced plastic and heavy glass bottles for cosmetic care and products like jellies, honey, ketchup, etc. The market for flexible packaging is vast and incessantly growing – the primary reason is that the product packaging is their initial physical contact with the product. Customers also expect the packaging to be convenient, especially when they interact with the product through the packaging; it should be easy to access. Another thing we cannot overlook is that they are cost-effective, being light-in-weight, they lower the storage and shipping expenses. You can consult the best packaging manufacturing company to get more solutions.

PROS

– Flexible packaging is sustainable since it consumes less energy to produce.

– They are easy to operate and include an easy-to-access feature. Some of them include peel and seal treatment.

– Being cost-effective than rigid packaging, many prefer flexible packaging solutions.

– Graphics, as well as text, are readily printed on flexible packaging

CONS

– Flexible packaging isn’t suggested for food as they alter the flavor.

– They come equipped with low-temperature resistance, especially at extreme temperatures. 

Rigid Packaging

Remarkably, conventional packaging has a higher market share than flexible packaging solutions. As per a PDA report, the rigid packaging industry is set to go beyond $800 Billion by 2024; flexible product packaging will reach $299 Billion. Rigid product packaging is crucial for various applications. Perfumes, high-end beverages, spirits, and other health items will likely be packaged in tough packaging to stay protected against damage. These require additional protection, and that can be provided by hard packaging. The beverage industry commonly uses rigid containers such as aluminum cans, plastic, and glass bottles.

PROS:

– Rigid packaging, which entails hard plastic and other similar materials, offers higher strength.

– Stiff packing offers a sense of luxury.

– Leaves no effect on the flavor of food.

CONS:

– Rigid packaging is more expensive than flexible packaging and therefore expensive.

– It leaves a major carbon footprint.

What’s the difference between rigid packaging and flexible product packaging manufacturing?

Rigid product packaging is made of sturdy materials that cannot be twisted or bent into new shapes. It cannot be adapted in any manner; however, they offer rigidity and support. It is made of strong properties; corrugated boxes or paperboard, glass jars, plastic bottles, and aluminum cans are major possibilities. Some are suitable for soft drinks, cereal boxes, and soup cans, while corrugated boxes fit right for other things. Flexible product packaging, on the other hand, is built for flexible content; it bends without breaking. As a result, you can reshape, fold, and even bend the product without any damage. Courier bags, paper wrappers, stretch film rolls, and more are perfect examples of flexible packaging. Those who deal in shipping, transportation, and logistics – prefer product packaging solutions. They come in all types and sizes and can be used for multiple applications.

Are there innovative solutions for your business?

Durability: There are myriad benefits of flexible and conventional product packaging; it is based on the type of packaging you are looking for. Conventional packaging offers exceptional protection for the contents it ships. The container is rigid and tough; they protect the content against friction, ups and downs, and any condition that may damage the product. However, stiff packaging, such as glass, has the drawback of being damaged or even shattering when dropped. Flexible product packaging is resistant to any damage; however, due to its structure, it can be penetrated when sharp tools are used. Nevertheless, conventional packaging is puncture-proof and can protect the product from heat, spoilage, light, moisture, and air.

Environmental Factors: Flexible and conventional packaging isn’t the same when it comes to environmental impact – they use less energy and resources to manufacture and ship. When it comes to shipment, they are lightweight; they may be delivered in each truckload, resulting in fewer runs using less energy and resources and emitting less CO2. It results in less product waste. Rigid containers can be recycled, but industries are leaning on flexible product packaging in the current market.

Everybody’s Preference: Customers prefer flexible product packaging since it is inexpensive and environmentally friendly – it is easy to use, can be utilized, and serves well in a sturdy manner. They are light-in-weight, easy to store, handle, and ship. Moreover, most flexible packaging can be resealed and opened many times until the user consumes it completely. As a result, they are quite easy for customers. They are amazing and cutting-edge packaging solutions for businesses that deal in shipping.

Trends in Packaging

Environmental concerns and the need for cost reduction left an impact on the complete scene of packaging. Industries are putting emphasis on the use of packaging materials – innovations in the packing field have helped the industries fulfill these goals. Reduction in the used materials, use of smart packaging, recyclability material, and space-efficient designs are some of the trusted methods employed by them to reduce expenses.  

The above-mentioned is everything you need to know about rigid and flexible packaging; if you wish to get professional help with product packaging solutions, consult Field Packaging Solutions. Being the leading and trusted packaging manufacturing brand, we can deliver premium quality packaging solutions. Now that you know the difference, choose the right product based on your business needs.