Make a Lasting Impression with the Right D2C Packaging

Direct-to-consumer (D2C) packaging is responsible for more than just protecting your product during shipment. This packaging arrives directly to the consumer’s doorstep; as such, it’s a crucial touchpoint for brand perception. A well-designed package can enhance the unboxing experience and leave a lasting impression that keeps customers coming back.

But, there’s a lot more that goes into packaging than just the aesthetics. Storytelling, sustainability, and more all play roles in creating an engaging customer experience. In this blog, we’re showing you how to turn your everyday packaging into a marketing tool that deepens customer connections.

1. Understand Your Customer

Though it may seem simple, the first step toward creating quality D2C packaging is to develop a deep understanding of your customers. Without a clear understanding of what they want, your packaging may not entice them to place a repeat order. Before setting out to create your packaging, make sure you have a firm grasp on:

  • Demographics: Age, gender, income level, and lifestyle all influence packaging design choices.
  • Buying behavior: Do they shop online or in-store? Do they compare brands or buy impulsively?
  • Pain points and needs: Are they looking for convenience, sustainability, durability, or aesthetic appeal?
  • Perceived value: What materials, finishes, or design elements make them feel like they’re getting their money’s worth?
  • Sustainability preferences: Do they prefer recyclable or biodegradable materials? Would they pay more for eco-friendly packaging?

These fundamentals will help you get started on packaging design. When combined with an experienced packaging manufacturer, you’ll be well on your way to packaging that truly delights your target audience.

2. Create with Sustainability in Mind

As mentioned above, keeping customers’ sustainability preferences in mind is extremely important. Today, many consumers are looking for brands to step up their sustainability practices. In fact, 65% of consumers believe brands have as much responsibility as governments to aid positive social change. Designing packaging with sustainability in mind can help you lower your carbon footprint and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Corrugated packaging is a popular, eco-friendly choice. Almost all corrugated boxes are made with sustainable material sourced from programs such as the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and American Tree Farm System (ATFS).

Additionally, partnering with a sustainably minded manufacturing company can help you create better products. At Jamestown Container, we’re supplied with the most eco-responsible linerboard on the market from the Greenpac Mill. We’re also part of the Box to Nature program, a transformative initiative dedicated to promoting responsible recycling practices.

However, many businesses wonder whether offering sustainable options makes financial sense. In most verticals, it can. In fact, many consumers are willing to pay up to 9.7% more for sustainably produced or sourced goods. This can help offset any additional costs you may incur from the sustainable packaging options.

3. Embrace Visual Appeal

Of course, one of the most important aspects of your packaging will be its visual appeal. After all, 72% of American consumers stated that their purchasing decisions were influenced by the product’s packaging design. Consider custom printing on both the exterior and interior of your box to reinforce your brand’s identity. Bold logos, eye-catching patterns, and other thoughtful design elements can turn your standard shipping box into a memorable brand experience.

Not sure if custom-printed corrugated boxes are right for your brand? Learn about their advantages from our in-depth blog.

4. Use Storytelling

Along with the visual appeal of your packaging, people are attracted to stories. If your business tells an engaging story, it can hook a consumer to come back and buy more. In fact, 68% of consumers say that brand stories influence their purchasing decisions. Furthermore, 71% of customers recommend a brand based on their emotional connection to it. That’s why so many brands use storytelling to their advantage.

You can cost-effectively add storytelling to your packaging by:

  • Printing your brand’s origin story
  • Highlighting your product’s journey or sustainability efforts
  • Spotlighting the people behind the brand
  • And more!

An experienced packaging manufacturer can help you find innovative ways to incorporate storytelling into your packaging initiatives.

Work with Jamestown Container for Your D2C Packaging Needs

If you need help with your D2C packaging, trust the experts at Jamestown Container. Since 1956, we’ve been helping companies get the right packaging solutions for their needs. We are now a multi-facility, concept-to-finished goods custom corrugated packaging manufacturer and foam supplier with an excellent reputation for customer service and quick turnaround times.

Additionally, we maintain industry certifications, including an ISO accreditation, to hold us to the highest standards. From simple brown shipping boxes to colorful retail packaging and displays, our expert team is able to help your business find the solution to any packaging challenge from start to finish.

We achieve high-quality results while prioritizing sustainability. All of our locations source lightweight, recycled linerboard from the Greenpac Mill, located in Niagara Falls, NY. This state-of-the-art facility is one of the largest and most advanced recycled linerboard producers in North America, with an impressive commitment to minimizing landfill waste. The linerboard is made from 100% recycled fibers and is produced using energy-efficient processes, making it one of the most eco-responsible and durable recycled linerboard products available.

Let’s Connect

Want to learn more about what we can do for your business? Reach out to our team for an initial consultation.