Why Minimalist Packaging is Here to Stay

Whilst many create packaging that screams “over here” with their loud colours and bold typography, there’s a growing trend of less is more. Minimalism is creeping into every aspect of our lives from calming homeware ranges and stripped-back bank cards to de-branded famous brands. So, it’s no surprise that minimalist packaging is on the rise.

Packaging is heading in the direction of a balance between tackling environmental concerns and an overt simplistic aesthetic. When everything is overly complicated, the total simplicity of a plain cardboard box and minimal text stands out and brings visual sanity. Enter minimalist packaging, that does a lot with a little. 

Why Choose Minimalist Packaging?  

Minimalist packaging is said to have a huge influence on consumers purchasing choices and bottom lines. 92% of consumers feel that minimalist, eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging is important. 

Minimalism embraces natural-looking packaging, that’s free from cluttered text and complicated visuals, that engages consumers without any distractions, and clearly communicates the brand story. This minimalist trend involves simplifying aspects, such as using one strong typography and one bold colour for the entire packaging design. Sporting this minimalist look also includes clear labelling and branding throughout. 

Simply put, minimalist packaging enables a product to stand out from competing brands that have overwhelming graphics and designs. 

Going Green with Minimalist Packaging  

As more end users demand brands to address environmental issues and reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs, in 2023 green, minimalist packaging will become the norm.  

Minimalist packaging is more cost-effective, saving on waste created by oversized and complicated designs. Optimising the packaging’s volume and weight can reduce material consumption and environmental impacts. Reducing the number of materials used, removes unnecessary design elements, to create a green-friendly packaging solution.  

Minimalist packaging focuses on only one or two material types. Excessive additional packaging, such as bubble wrap, can annoy the end-user when trying to get to the product. Corrugated cardboard packaging provides a cost-effective and more sustainable alternative. Using the same standard outer box, the various filaments inside can be engineered to perform and protect any product it holds with no extra materials or adhesives. Using only corrugated cardboard causes little to no damage to the environment and can be easily reused, recycled, or repurposed at the end of consumption. 

The Power of Simplicity 

Brands are foregoing a minimal look to provide a premium and luxury experience to their consumers. Luxury packaging is growing and is often associated with elegance and expense. Whether it’s being minimal on the artwork or the packaging design itself, a minimalistic look can add an element of premium, whilst upholding quality and efficiency.  

A complex design on a package, won’t always help consumers remember it better. Packaging that is cluttered, text-heavy and overwhelming could lead to a negative impact instead. A minimalistic design, such as Apple’s simple packaging design, effectively delivers the brand’s message and creates a luxury product. 

Brands that traditionally have used plastic materials to ship their goods are embracing the challenge of transitioning towards a sustainable and minimalist alternative. E-commerce brands are swapping out their plastic bags, for corrugated cardboard boxes. This simple swap to a minimalist packaging design and material helps create a premium feel. 

How to Incorporate Minimalist Packaging 

The less is more mantra is easy to use and effective in attracting consumers, without compromising on an aesthetic appeal. Here are our best practices for the ultimate minimalistic packaging: 

1. Focus on your logo

Minimalism focuses on what is needed and your brand’s logo can’t be missed. opt to put your logo on a plain background to maintain its focus. At Greyhound Box, we can print your logo and other key elements directly onto your packaging. These branded components can be sent directly to retailers or end customers without the need of adding the likes of stickers. 

2.  Less is more 

Minimalism shouldn’t just be incorporated into the artwork and aesthetic of your packaging, but the material and design too. Using less helps you save costs, reduce waste, and help your consumers become sustainable. Using a bespoke corrugated cardboard design is the best option to stay aesthetically pleasing whilst being eco-friendly. Our team of designers can manufacture specifically designed bespoke packaging that hugs and protects products, without the need of additional materials. 

3. Display only what is needed 

In order to be minimal, it’s important to only add the necessary elements to your packaging. This means using only one or two colours and removing fancy patterns and irrelevant information. Adding a QR code in place of large amounts of text gives you the opportunity to include an unlimited about of information, without causing a visual overload. 

Minimal packaging continues to be a theme we will see throughout 2023. The minimalist aesthetic is being welcomed in modern packaging design with open arms. If you are looking to incorporate minimalism into your packaging, get in touch and let us get started on your packaging today.