Brands can live or die by their packaging. All the master growers, rare genetics, THC percentages, charitable donations, social media influencers and celebrity endorsements won’t save a brand without shelf appeal.
It seems unfair, especially in an industry that mandates childproof packaging on top of stringent labeling requirements, that a superior product in poor packaging could be so easily outsold by an inferior product in appealing packaging. But, like any other consumer packaged good, consumers place value on well-produced packaging.
To help level the playing field, Marijuana Venture reached out to leaders in consumer packaging to give readers insight on the many variables of building appealing packaging for retail buyers and consumers alike.
Marijuana Venture: What advice would you give to cannabis companies looking for a new packaging supplier?
Jason Lammers, of SnoCo Packaging and 420WholesalePack.com: Supply chains in all industries are stained right now, so working with a company that has good supply chain management and some US vendor options available are really important in todays’ market conditions. Sustainability is also becoming a big factor in the decision-making process so working with a packaging supplier that can provide some sustainable options for packaging is becoming more important as consumers become more sustainably focused with their purchasing decisions.
MV: What are some of the best ways cannabis brands can use their packaging to set themselves apart from their competition?
JL: Cannabis Brands are always looking for ways to make their packaging stand out in a competitive marketplace. With sustainability becoming front of mind for many consumers, I think one of the best ways to stand out is not only making more sustainable packaging decisions, but also promoting your sustainable packaging choices on your labeling, social media, etc. Really promote that your brand cares and is investing in a sustainable future.
MV: How is sustainability becoming a more important aspect of cannabis packaging, and is that something you’ve addressed with your company?
JL: We’ve seen large shift in consumer awareness toward sustainability over the last few years as we continue to see the negative impacts that packaging waste can have on our planet. Over the last few years our company has researched a variety of sustainable packaging solutions and in January of this year we developed a child resistant joint tube package made from 100% recycled plastic and we are manufacturing them locally in Washington state. We also have dab jars available that are made of glass and the lids are made from 100% recycled plastic. For printed boxes we’re working with a US company that makes boxes from paper or hemp. On all of our sustainable solutions we work really hard to keep the cost as competitive as possible as many sustainable options are just too expensive for most cannabis farms. We stay up to date on all the latest in sustainability for our industry through our research and the work we do at The Cannabis Alliance’s Sustainable Cannabis Committee.