New toys and games are always being added to store shelves, and each new product needs a box, carton, or other container that keeps it free from dust and damage while also attracting consumer attention. Branding, artwork, and even container shapes all contribute to how likely a customer is to pick up and purchase a new toy or game. Some even rely on packaging to tell a story or draw consumers in with the promise of a unique unboxing experience that can be almost as important as the item itself.
At the same time, retail store formats and distribution channels change over time. This means toys, games, and similar products are frequently offered for sale in new and different store settings, with a range of display, shelf, and storage options, all the time. Packaging must be adaptable and versatile to enable the widest possible distribution.
While consistency in packaging and labeling is important to brand recognition, most retailers are also eager to provide signature shopping experiences. As a result, POP and merchandising displays that are tailored to a retailer’s preferences help products maintain visibility whether they are on an end cap, an aisle, or a stand-alone display.
The bottom line is that packaging choices influence where and how products are displayed as well as consumer behavior. The goal is to strike a balance between packaging that both protects and promotes its contents.