Packaging

A shell, a box, a carboard outer, a pallet, a container

Function of packaging

• To protect in transit
• To protect in storage
• To protect user from contents
• To facilitate handling
• To facilitate dispensing
• To advise and inform
• To interest
• To project company image
• By using the most economic, least wasteful, most socially acceptable materials available.

Discussion of functions

• Protection in transit/storage
  • Number of journeys
  • Extremes of temperature
  • Protection from vermin
• Protection from product
  • eg Gas and Chemicals
• Facilitate handling/dispensing
  • Needs of distributor and end user
  • Convienance in use
• Advising/Informing
  • Major difficulty because space is finite
  • Name of product/manufacturer
  • Address
  • Date manufactured / to be used by
  • Description of product
  • Directions for use
  • Warnings
  • List of ingredients
  • Net weight
  • Price
  • etc
• Arousing interest and projecting image
  • Packaging and role of silent salesman
• Minimise cost, waste and environmental damage
  • Keep abreast of trends
  • Evaluate alternatives

Packaging can have a profound effect on Marketing and Plant layout, production methods, manning, etc.