How to Choose a Paper Material that Enhances the Appeal of a Product?

"Custom rigid boxes" are widely recognized as luxurious packaging options for premium products, significantly contributing to "enhancing the appeal of a product". They aren't just for gifts, either; custom rigid boxes are highly beneficial as product packages due to their ability to meet multiple criteria. Therefore, it's not uncommon to spot a myriad of custom rigid boxes gracing the shelves of stores as you shop.

So, what are the aspects that make these boxes distinguishable from other attractive boxes?

The answer, while straightforward, points to an intricate combination of aesthetic appeal, design, size, shape, and material. A balanced selection of these elements can generate a unique and enticing combination.

In the second part of our series on custom rigid boxes, we're going to explore the recommended "materials".

Characteristics of paper materials and tips for how to select the most suitable material for custom rigid box

Since the box must maintain its structural integrity, the materials chosen should match the product and the brand image from a wide selection of paper types with adequate thickness.

Let's break down the selection process from the following four perspectives: paper thickness, paper color, printing suitability, and texture.

・Paper thickness

For heavy or fragile items, like glass bottles, thicker paper or thin corrugated cardboard should be chosen to secure its strength and prevent the item from slipping out of the bottom. Conversely, if you're planning to package lighter products such as baked goods, an appropriate thickness of paperboard should be used.

・Color of paperboard

While most paperboards are white, some are available in black or unbleached versions. For expressing base color through solid printing, white paper is typically used, as the cross-section color remains consistent. However, black paper can provide a more luxurious aesthetic, as its cross-section is also black.

・Suitability for printing

Glossy and smooth paperboard may not be the best choice for designs intending to showcase the material's texture, as these features may diminish the texture's visibility. However, it's perfect for full-color and solid printing, effectively expressing detailed prints like photographs and providing a tactile sensation that engages our senses.

・Texture

For products with an organic feel or those aiming to project a soothing impression, we recommend paperboard with an uneven surface and rough texture. Keeping the design minimalistic, such as featuring only a logo, can enhance the paper's texture.

Which material is growing in popularity for custom rigid box

Simple packages that leverage the natural white color of paperboard, complemented by a gentle, rough texture, are trending. These are often employed for packaging confections and cosmetics.

Not only does the white design impart a soothing texture, but solid printing also contributes to a soft impression, subtly highlighting the box's texture. As a result, clients frequently select custom rigid boxes that align with their brand image.

We're seeing a rise in clients choosing custom rigid boxes constructed from single-material designs, reducing the need for customers to sort the packaging components when discarding them.

For instance, a cosmetic package sealed in a paper outer box with a PET seal may use a plastic divider to secure the product. In this scenario, each component — the PET seal, plastic divider, and paper box — must be disposed of separately. In contrast, a paper-only package requires no seal, and the divider can also be made from paper, streamlining the recycling process.

Popular materials may differ depending on the industry. If you are considering what material to choose, our sales will be happy to help you find the right material for your needs.

Eco-friendly materials

Brands and products focusing on the SDGs and environmental considerations can make a strong impression on consumers, especially those who show initial interest in the packaging, by carefully choosing materials for their custom rigid boxes.

In collaboration with paper companies, we continuously research various eco-friendly paper types, like reversible base paper and paper with a high recycled content.

Moreover, we can suggest the most suitable materials based on your design image and requirements, including options like non-wood pulp (derived from sugar cane) and bulky base paper. The latter has a lower density of paper fibers than conventional products, reducing the amount of paper pulp required for the same thickness.

When using eco-friendly materials for custom rigid boxes, we recommend adding a label on the side of the box. This way, consumers can readily identify your commitment to environmental sustainability.