Packaging for Small Households
July 14, 2016
Small households (no, not those people living in Tiny Houses) have few people living in them and are a growing part of U.S. demographics. Homes with only one or two people living under the same roof represent 61 percent of all households. That equates to millions of Americans who have little use for extra large, family size or bulk goods.
Snacking is also a common trait of individuals living alone who don’t like to cook big meals for one. One example of a packaging response to this fact is reflected in a custom design we created for Cape Seasonings. The new bag is tough and decreases breakage, but more importantly keeps food fresh after many snacking servings. (Plus, it looks great on shelves too!)
When people live alone or with just one other person, their needs change. Much of the old way of the food and bev business goes out the window. The growth of this consumer market has changed the way we package food. For instance, here are three ways food packaging for younger or more urban audiences should reflect their lifestyle:
Single-Serving Packages
Not too long ago it was only kids items or other food meant to be put in a lunchbox and taken to school or work that was designed this way. Now, it is normal for people to want food on-the-go or just nice-and-easy when they’re at home. No fuss, no clean up, no skill required.
Meals for Two
Whether you’re very hungry, or you are hosting another person, food packaging that is designed for two people has become more popular. Family-sized that feed 4 or more still have their place, but if you’re targeting households without kids, you may need to think in twos.
Resealable
Small households will take longer to get through a bag of chips, frozen vegetables and bags of shredded cheese. So make it easy on them by letting them reseal and keep fresh for later.
This is just scratching the surface of packaging designs to meet the needs of your customer. Each brand and challenge is unique, which is why we approach every one with an open mind. Give us a ring and take the first step toward a better package design today.
