It is absolutely vital that you spend the time and effort developing effective packaging. Packaging can be the difference between a sale and a buyer walking away.  There are so many amazing product concepts that just don't get realized by Major Retailers because of packaging that isn't working for the product inside.

If you put yourself in Buyer’s shoes an think about your own shopping habits, packaging is the first thing a customer sees when entering into a store or looking online. If the packaging isn’t attractive or clear, customers won’t be interested and therefore won't buy - it’s as simple as that. Understandably, this makes spending time on packaging essential to Major Retail success.

But how do you know if you are on the right track with packaging your product?

Here's three great questions to ask yourself and really think about when preparing your product for Major Retail success:

1. Does my packaging convey a clear message of what the product is or does?

If someone picked up your product in its current packaging would they know immediately what it was and what it does? If not, then you know you have a problem. You've got to make sure that your message is clearly conveyed on your packaging. Many people decide within a few seconds as to whether they want to buy your product or not, so it is vital that you display a clear visual experience for the customer as to what the product is and how it can help them.

2. Does the packaging look good? Is it appealing?

You might think that you've created the most awesome packaging ever, but if no one else agrees, then bam, you have another problem. Your packaging must be attractive, concise and enticing.  How do you know that you are on the right track? Ask people!  Ask your friends, family, colleagues, people on the street… ask anyone who can give you an honest answer.  Tell them you need the truth, not a compliment. You’d be amazed at how brutally honest people can be!

3. Is the package size comparable with its competition?

If you go to a store and see that your competitors' packaging is 3 times smaller than yours, then you know you have a problem. Make sure your product aligns with how much space a buyer has to work with. There is a reason why buyers chose to layout their space in a store in a particular way - they are allotted limited space for their category or categories. So pay attention and be respectful for how much room a buyer has to work with. If they love your product but can't fit it in, you're just hurting your own sales.

If you know you have a problem, or even if you are not 100% convinced that you are on the right track with packaging, then don't be shy and get some help! Look for a company or packaging expert that specializes in product packaging for your product type. Working with an experienced packaging expert can save a tremendous amount of time, money and headache!

At the end of the day, the more energy and time you put into having the best packaging the better. So take the time to prepare your packaging and you will be on your way to Major Retail success!

Visit Design your own for more free advice and information.