“You are always on my mind”...... it’s true - packaging is something I enjoy immensely and notice constantly - new materials, designs, labels, colors, and from my experience in the ad specialties industry, logos - packaging is always on my mind.
What brings this subject to mind is my very recent new-found respect for grocery store brands. I first noticed it when introduced to Whole Foods house brand 365. The products are good quality and definitely a value when compared with their pricing on other items.
What opened my eyes to store brands is their lower prices coupled with the stores recently doing an artful job of packaging their value line of products. The packaging and labeling is clearly less expensive than that of national brands. But with thoughtful additions like a zipper closure on frozen fruit or dried rice, and logos and labels that mimic higher-end food packages, I went from shunning store brands to experimenting with a new store brand each time I shop for groceries.
Trader Joe’s further inducted me into the wonderful world of store brands - they have unusual products with terrific value and yet the store itself has a certain cachet, akin to shopping in an exclusive specialty foods shop without the huge price tag. Also, particularly impressive is Shaw’s Wild Harvest Organics line of products.
I’m also a big fan of Peapod, Stop & Shop’s delivery service, particularly during the winter months. I find myself enjoying more Stop & Shop brand items like frozen vegetables, fresh meats and milk, while saving money when compared with national brand items. Stop & Shop’s quality Nature’s Promise offerings include meats with the “Antibiotic Free” label. The customer speaks, and they listen.
Good packaging and labeling drive the initial sale, and great packaging of quality product breeds loyal customers who return time after time. “Give me one more chance to keep you satisfied” sings Willie.....the store brands continue to do just that, and have gained me as a loyal follower. It’s all about the packaging.