As stand up pouch packaging continues to grow, we look back on the evolution of stand-up flexible pouches and why companies are consistently falling in love.
The DoyPack originated in France 1968 with Louis Doyen the CEO at a packaging manufacturer obtained a US patent for a stand-up pouch packaging design. Although the design was heralded at the time, it was an expensive alternative to cartons and jars so only a selection of brands believed it was cost effective.
The real boom in pouch packaged products came noticeably after the patent of the Doyen brothers expired. One of the very first examples of a mass market pouch based product was Capri Sun – a millennial favourite with a simple beverage-and-straw solution.
The market then moved towards baby foods with spouted pouches and finally broader food products such as sauces, condiments and beverages.
Now it seems that flexible solutions have become a must for convenience-focused brands and retailers with stand-up pouch packaging increasingly adopted across multiple industries.
We’ve collated just some of the reasons why our customers believe stand up pouch solutions make sense for their business.
1. Array of Value Added Features
From tear notches, spouts, Velcro and zippers, the variety of closure features available with stand-up pouch packaging are endless. This not only helps the consumer on opening and reuse, but some closure technologies can even improve product shelf life. With 92% of consumers believing it’s important that a package retains freshness, is it any wonder the stand-up pouch is welcomed for helping products stay fresher for longer.
2. Supply Chain Brownie Points
Although not a deal breaker when it comes to packaging solutions, there is an increasing demand for brands to do their bit for the environment. Sustainability and environmentally friendly policies have grown to be a massive part of a company’s corporate reasonability.
With a product to package ratio standing at 33:1, stand up pouches offer more product for less space compared with rigid containers such as glass jars. This has a knock-on effect down the supply chain resulting in fewer transportation costs and reduced carbon footprint.
3. Improved Shelf presence and POS display
With a wide front panel design, stand-up pouches offer great exposure for the product on the shelf. Additional features such as optional windows give the consumer a sneak peak of your product before purchase. A recent Mintel report suggests consumers believe it’s important to see the food inside packaging with 40% of consumers stating they would choose a product over a competitor because the packaging lets them view the product inside.
The material used in flexible pouches also helps products resist shattering, breakages and tearing both en route and in situ on shop floor. With ever increasing competition for retail shelf space, it seems that flexible options that provide less risk of damage and improved shelf presence have won the hearts of supermarkets.
4. Changing Consumer Demands
As consumers are constantly on the go, portability and convenience have become crucial packaging features for brands to consider. Research supports the increasing need for convenience with 54% of US adults suggesting it is important for packaging to be portable. Stand up pouches are the perfect solution for food on the go and the resealable options allow for multiple uses which can save money and waste.
The variety of closures mechanisms combined with practical improvements to shelf life, waste and reusability strike the perfect balance between packaging form and function. We believe stand-up pouches will literally stand the test of time for some years to come.
Food for thought? Why not take a look at all the different types of packaging features that can be used with stand-up pouch packaging.
If you’re looking for the perfect stand-up pouch packaging for your product then contact our team today.
