More and more companies are adding scents to their packaging. While it doesn’t mean they’re dousing them in perfume, there is a benefit to having subtly scented items for shipping, in order to create unboxing experiences that mean something to customers of all kinds.
Here, we’ll go over how scented packaging works, the benefits, and what it means for brands to use this type of innovative packaging technology.
Why Use This
Scented packaging is a subtle way to stand out.
The idea is to incorporate a scent somewhere on the packaging. That way, when the customer opens this, they recognize the scent that it comes from.
The benefit is that it builds a deeper emotional connection between the customer and brand. Customers will remember companies through connections to the five cents. Colors and sounds work, but scents really create a stand-out experience.
This emotional connection also builds a heightened sensory experience, and also will help companies and customers connect. Customers will remember, and companies will benefit from having the customers engage with the brand like this. Again, these emotional connections play a huge part, so don’t discount them.
Applications of Scented Packaging
Scented packaging has a variety of different applications.
The first and most popular is ecommerce. A lot of ecommerce packaging and experiences benefit from incorporating this type of packaging. Adding in some ecommerce benefits by getting customers excited for their items play a critical role in the success of the brand.
The second application is cosmetics. A lot of beauty companies will include on their boxes the scent that the cosmetic is based upon. This builds a more pleasant experience, and connects with the customer.
Food industries are another. A lot of food products may add the scent of what they’re getting, to entice customers to buy. Again, this connection offers a better, more intuitive experience on an emotional and physical front.
The Challenges of Scented Packaging
Scented packaging does have its challenges.
The first is making sure that the scent isn’t too overpowering. A lot of customers like the scent of packaging, but if you give too much, it then becomes more empowering. Customers may recoil if the scent is too much for them to deal with. Make sure it isn’t too overpowering, but still there. think of it more like a reminder.
The second challenge is to also factor in allergens and other issues. Some people may have sensitive noses, so make sure that if you do plan to use this, you Adjust the scent, or give a warning that the product may have a scent. It can be good if you’re working with sensitive customers.
The Future of This Packaging
These days, scented packaging plays a huge part in the overall success of a company. Adding this to the packaging in an effective manner helps to make it stand out.
The next innovation is customization. Some companies are adding a fun, customized scent to the packaging, to make it smell even better than ever! The other cool additive that they’re putting in there, is activated scents when you open the package.
This means customers won’t know what the scent is until they open it. Another possible addition if you’re looking to create a packaging that really enhances the memorability.
Think of scents as another additive of the five senses. Using this is another way to stand out, to help customers remember who you are, and thereby improving not just the overall unboxing experience, but also the way brands will look at you as a company overall as well.
