Cool packaging

With research showing that some 70% of purchasing decisions are made at the shelf, packaging design needs to make an impact. Eye catching finishes, like foiling, add an extra edge.

Whilst every detail matters, from design to materials, adding an extra finish can create a real 'wow' moment for consumers. Consider a luxury brand that uses sleek packaging with gold accents for instance, or a stunning package that is simply beautiful with just a plain black or white packaging, but subtly embellished with beautiful foil. This approach conveys a sense of sophistication and quality – and increasingly this foiling enhancement is not only being used for luxury products but for commodities too, raising them to something special for the purchaser.

Good packaging serves multiple functions. It keeps the product safe, provides necessary information, and entices consumers. In a marketplace filled with options, innovative packaging techniques help brands stand out.

Foiling, as an addition, is a versatile technique that applies a metallic or pigment foil to a surface, creating stunning visuals that suggest luxury and premium quality. Options range from shiny metallic finishes to elegant matte foils in a whole host of stunning colours, and some with their own embellishments in the form of holograms or visual textures.

This visually pleasing nature of foil not only improves aesthetic appeal but also enhances the customer experience. When consumers feel the smoothness of a foil accented box, it adds to the overall impression of quality.

Foiling techniques

Hot foiling is a popular method that utilises heat and pressure to adhere foil to surfaces. This creates crisp, clean results, making it ideal for logos and intricate designs. For example, many luxury wine bottles feature hot foil labels that enhance their premium appearance.

Cold foiling employs an adhesive rather than heat, offering design flexibility. This method can be used on larger formats, making it perfect for creative and complex designs. A notable use is in elaborate wine boxes that require intricate detailing without the limitations imposed by heat.

Digital foiling is a more recent advancement that allows quick and flexible customisation. Brands can produce unique packaging and cater to seasonal themes without incurring high costs. For instance, a company might create limited edition packaging for a holiday that stands out on shelves, tailored specifically for that occasion.

It is also ideal for shorter run packaging, and for any company looking to cut time to market and costs.

Raised foils addsboth shine and texture, enhancing a product's visual and tactile appeal. Companies often use this technique to highlight specific elements, such as brand logos, making them pop and attracting attention.

Foiling can elevate a brand's perceived value. Products embellished with foil are often seen as luxurious. A survey found that 45% of consumers are willing to pay more for premium looking packaging. This subtle shift can significantly elevate a brand's market position.

In retail environments filled with options, foiling helps products stand out, and even if buying through e-commerce, the packaging still needs to look good, and additions such as foiling will create a real 'moment' at time of opening. Reflective surfaces and vibrant colours catch consumer attention, increasing the likelihood of purchase. A study found that products that come with foil packaging can see a sales increase of up to 30%.

Foiling works well on various materials, from cardboard to plastics. Its adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of industries, including cosmetics and food. For example, biodegradable foil options are becoming popular in the cosmetics sector as brands strive for sustainability without compromising aesthetics.

Crafting the perfect package

Designing a package with foiling involves several key factors:

The choice of colours is crucial. A strong contrast between foil and background can heighten visibility. For instance, a vibrant blue box with gold foil can be visually striking.

While intricate designs can be alluring, simplicity often makes a stronger impact. Effectively using space and minimalist design can let the foil shine without overwhelming viewers. By adding foiling to your packaging, there is really very little else you have to do to gain creative appeal.

The materials chosen for packaging can enhance the foiling effect. Glossy, matte, or textured finishes can affect how foil appears, impacting the final product's look and feel.

As businesses become more aware of environmental issues, eco friendly foiling options are gaining traction. Brands are exploring biodegradable foils and recyclable materials to create stylish packages that are also responsible.

Some brands now choose vegan foils that avoid animal products, aligning with their ethical values. This approach maintains a luxurious appearance while being kind to the planet.

The packaging landscape is evolving, and foiling has become a significant technique that transforms product presentation. It improves brand value and enhances shelf appeal, setting products apart in a crowded market. Through methods like hot, cold, and digital foiling, brands have more tools to craft memorable packaging experiences.

As the industry moves towards sustainable solutions, the future of foiling seems bright and promising. Next time you open a product, take a moment to appreciate the packaging; it might just be telling you a unique story through its shiny foil.

Added extra: If you are interested in finding out more about foiling and how that can enhance your packaging, we highly recommend working with Foilco, a company with a depth of knowledge and experience in this area, as well as being the home of one of the widest ranges of stamping foil shades and finishes in the world.

See www.foilco.com