What Do Consumers Value in Their Packaging?
Functionality and convenience are at the top of consumers’ packaging wish lists. A Mintel study revealed most U.S. adults value reclosable packaging, with portability also important to many.
Entering the flexible packaging world requires an understanding of packaging options, which include closures such as zipper sliders and press-to-close zippers. To create a truly well-made package, much thought should go into what is inside the package as to what supports the product.
A package closure is one of the most crucial points of interaction a consumer has with a brand – but, they’re not all created equal. Closures can provide much-appreciated time-saving convenience or sheer frustration if they don’t perform properly.
Closures should be selected based on the ‘best fit for use’ of the package and provide an optimal consumer experience. Price or premium, align your reliability with your brand’s overall goals.
A closure selection is just as critical as the selection of packaging material and graphics. Why? Closures are designed to perform in different ways, support different types of products, and solve unique pain points for consumers.
Press-to-Close Zippers Vs. Sliders: What’s the Difference?
There are generally two types of closures for flexible packaging: press-to-close zippers and slider zippers. These versatile plastic options come in sealed packages of all sizes.
Zipper closures share a plastic arrowhead design, but how we use them to zip and unzip differs.
The Press-To-Close Zipper
With press-to-close zippers, consumers use their fingers to pull the flanges apart and push the ribs together.
Brands looking for an economical solution that still wants to offer consumer convenience often utilize press-to-close zippers. These zippers offer a balance of features and cost, while still providing extended freshness and convenience.
The cost of putting a zipper on an individual package is minimal when compared to the overall cost of the package. Though low-cost, this feature adds high value, potentially tipping the scale in your favor.
Press-to-close zippers come in multiple variations to meet a brand’s objectives and requirements. Press-to-close zippers are customizable for various applications, like those shown below:
- Double Lock Zippers provide added protection against spillage and freezer burn for frozen foods
- Thermoform Zippers provide reliable closures for processed and sliced meat products running on thermoform/fill/seal equipment
- Contaminant-resistant zippers work well for products like spices, potting soils, and sauce mixes to ensure small particles aren’t trapped in the track during closing
- Click Lock Sensory Zippers assure on-the-go travelers that their pouch is fully sealed with an audible clicking noise
The Sliders
Slider zippers add a premium level of convenience and performance for consumers. The slider zips the tracks together, sealing the package and simplifying use.
CPGs that want to provide consumers with a premium package and user experience should consider slider zippers. Studies prove that consumers are willing to pay significantly more for product attributes such as resealability, ease of storing, and ease of opening. According to a Harris study, shoppers value reclosable packaging enough to pay 14% more.
Similar to the diverse options for press-to-close zippers, sliders are also engineered to fit particular uses. Customizable slider zippers find uses in various products, as seen with:
- Plowing sliders remove fine crumbs and powders from the track for premium products like whey protein powders, specialty sugars or baking ingredients, or salty snacks
- Heavy products like pet food, lawn and garden products, or bulk food should utilize the S-Slider to ensure the slider can support the product weight
- Child-resistant sliders are of particular interest to brands that package pool chemicals, laundry detergents, and cannabis products
- Ergonomic sliders with an easy-to-grip slider piece help older users or young children who may have a difficult time pressing a zipper closed
Marketing Matters at the Moment of Truth
Without a zipper or slider, consumers must roll and crunch a package closed, use a clip or twist tie, or use adhesive of some sort. Current closures risk spills and spoilage, but zippers ensure flexible packages stay sealed and contents fresh.
Clear reclosability is key on the shelf. Consumers comparing packages will choose the one that communicates its resealable benefits clearly, whether through graphics or a window around the closure.
Frustration at unboxing destroys customer loyalty; Hanpak helps you find the perfect closure for happy returns. Whether you need help simply choosing a proper package closure, or finding a co-packer to help expedite your speed to market, contact Hanpak here or online to take your reclosable options to the next level.