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The role of printing and design in packaging; why is the appearance of cardboard more important than you think?

The importance of four-color printing and lamination in gaining customer trust

Introduction

Today, packaging is not just a protective layer for the product; it is an integral part of brand identity, marketing, and the customer’s shopping experience. If in the past, packaging was designed solely to preserve the health of the product, today it has a much greater task: to attract the customer’s attention, convey the brand message, and increase sales.

Meanwhile, packaging printing and design have become one of the key factors in the success of products in the market. Simple cartons without design are less likely to create a place in the customer’s mind. In contrast, elegant packaging with four-color printing and high-quality lamination can make the difference that distinguishes your product from your competitors.

In this article from the Middle East Steel Carton blog, we examine the role of printing and design in packaging and explain why the appearance of the carton is much more important than you think.


Packaging as a silent seller

Packaging is the first point of contact a customer has with your brand. Before they even try the product, the appearance of the packaging can either convince them or make them hesitate. That’s why many marketing experts call packaging the “silent salesperson.”

Studies show that more than 70 percent of purchasing decisions are made in-store or when viewing a product online. In this situation, professional and attractive packaging can be your trump card.


Why is packaging design and printing important?

1. Gaining customer trust

A professional design with appropriate color scheme and high-quality printing creates a sense of trust and credibility of the brand in the customer’s mind.

2. Increase the perceived value of the product

Even if your product is of high quality, poor packaging can reduce its perceived value. Conversely, good packaging can increase the value of the product.

3. Differentiating in the market

In a market where there are hundreds of similar brands, the appearance of the carton is what sets your brand apart from others.

4. Conveying the brand message

Packaging design should be the language of your brand. Colors, fonts, and images all carry the brand message.


Four-color printing; a standard for professionals

Four-color printing (CMYK) is one of the most common and widely used printing methods in the packaging industry. This method allows the production of millions of different colors by combining four primary colors (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black).

Benefits of four-color printing on packaging cartons:

  • High color variety to create attractive designs 
  • Ability to print realistic and accurate images 
  • Global standard and usable in export 
  • Cost-effective compared to output quality

Using four-color printing, your brand can showcase high-quality images, detailed logos, and striking designs on cardboard.


Laminate; a layer for greater durability and beauty

Lamination is a process in which a clear or opaque layer is applied to cardboard. In addition to increasing durability, this layer gives the packaging a special look.

Types of laminate in packaging:

  • Glossy Lamination: Makes colors appear brighter and more vibrant. Perfect for grabbing attention on store shelves. 
  • Matte Lamination: Creates a sleek, luxurious look. Perfect for brands looking for a professional, distinctive look.

Advantages of lamination in packaging:

  • Greater resistance to moisture and scratches 
  • Increases the lifespan of packaging 
  • Creates a different and attractive visual effect 
  • Suitable for exporting sensitive products

The role of printing and design in exports

In export, packaging is the first representative of your brand in the international market. If the packaging is not standard, even the highest quality product cannot gain the trust of foreign customers.

A professionally designed export carton with four-color printing and lamination can:

  • Increase the confidence of foreign buyers. 
  • Enable competition with global brands. 
  • Protect the product during long-term transportation routes. 
  • Create a professional appearance to pass inspection standards.

Steps to design and print professional packaging

1. Understanding the product and target market

First of all, you need to know who your audience is and what they expect from the packaging.

2. Choosing colors and brand visual identity

Colors have a lot of power in conveying emotions. Choosing the right color can help strengthen your brand’s position.

3.Graphic design

The design should be simple, attractive, and yet functional.

4.Select print type

For most industries, four-color printing is the best option.

5.Adding a laminate layer
For added protection and a better visual effect, lamination is recommended.


Successful examples of professional packaging

  • Food industry: Laminated packaging with four-color printing for chocolates and biscuits that creates shelf appeal. 
  • Cosmetics: Matte laminated cartons to create a sense of luxury. 
  • Fruit and dried fruit export: Five-layer carton with color printing and lamination for greater durability and beautiful design.

Conclusion

Packaging is no longer just a means of protecting a product. Professional printing and design enhance brand value, gain customer trust, and can even multiply your sales.

Using four-color printing and lamination in packaging is a smart choice for any manufacturer and exporter looking to grow and have a strong presence in the domestic and global markets.

At Polad Carton Middle East, we use the latest printing and lamination technologies to produce a variety of durable and beautiful cartons so that your products reach the customer with the best appearance and the greatest durability.

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