E-commerce Packaging Insight
Looking to grow your e-commerce business? This insight could help. Every year, Mondi surveys thousands of online shoppers to gather insight into changing attitudes and behaviours. One area of focus is e-commerce packaging. As we work with many online retail brands, we’re keen to discover what recipients view as good packaging.
E-commerce Report
Global paper packaging company, Mondi, has recently released a report on their findings from a survey carried out in Q3 2023. With feedback from over 6,000 consumers, this report presents information on changing shopping behaviours, attitudes to e-commerce packaging and unboxing, as well as consumer opinions on packaging reuse and recycling. So, what does it tell us?
What are the Changes in Online Shopping Behaviours?
Firstly, there are signs that online sales volumes have steadily reduced since the height of Covid. However, a quarter of respondents still shop online every week, with many valuing the choice and competitive prices offered by e-commerce brands.
Interestingly, there has been an increase in purchases made via social media. The ability to target advertising on social platforms is clearly an effective marketing opportunity for brands, particularly those that want to attract younger generations.
So, what are people buying? A full range of range of consumables, electronics, pet products and health & beauty are regularly purchased online. However, clothing comes out on top. From footwear to seasonal fashions, we’re most likely to order a new outfit from an e-commerce retailer.
What are Consumer Attitudes to E-commerce Packaging?
Unsurprisingly, online shoppers want their goods to arrive undamaged and in pristine condition. For this reason, 88% of respondents rate the protective quality of e-commerce packaging. Shoppers also looked favourably on quality packaging and eco-friendliness.
On the flip side, consumers’ biggest grievance was over-packaging. Oversized boxes or multiple layers of packaging are perceived as unnecessary and are not well received. Equally, the survey reveals that 60% of shoppers expect packaging to be recyclable or compostable. What’s more, 45% stated that non-recyclable packaging would prevent them from making a repeat purchase.
There was also a growing interest in packaging reuse. For some brands, like Smart Mushrooms, their e-commerce packaging is part of the product – in this case a growing vessel. More common is the use of tear strips and resealable tape on bags and boxes. This is a great way to encourage reuse and ensure any returns are sent back in appropriate packaging. On that point, online shoppers still aren’t keen on paying for returns, but retailers need to take action to reduce costs and waste. It will be interesting to see how this evolves.
What are the 2024 E-commerce Shopping Trends?
Having scoured the Mondi report, we explored which items were selling well for online retailers at the start of 2024. The Hostinger list** of trending products in the UK includes reusable water bottles, dog harnesses, baby monitors, car chargers, pillows, mushroom coffee and air purifiers. That’s quite an eclectic mix! In terms of clothing, ‘athleisure wear’ and cargo pants are popular choices.
What We Can Learn From the Insight?
As an e-commerce start-up or an established online retailer, the report can inform decisions on the products you sell and where you market your promotions. It also indicates that you can’t skimp on packaging.
High-quality, best-fit boxes, made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable do play a part in strengthening your brand reputation. So, whether you have jumped on the mushroom coffee trend or your pillows and baby monitors are helping people sleep well at night, you need to ensure your e-commerce packaging meets expectations.
If your current packaging solutions aren’t fit for purpose, due to a high volume of goods damaged in transit or a lack of repeat business, get in touch: 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.
As cardboard packaging specialists, we will discuss your requirements, advise on solutions and provide a quote. We produce best-fit boxes and offer a range of print and finish options, to brand your packaging.
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