What Is Shelf-Ready Packaging? And Why Every Retailer Needs It

Many brands use simple and plain shelf-ready packaging that will not work anymore. Packaging trends are changing day by day, and retail packaging needs to be stylish and attractive over time.

Packaging is the first thing that usually gets noticed on retail shelves. If your product is good but lacks beautiful packaging, you are missing out on something.

How does SRP work & why every retailer needs it? We have answered this in the remaining part of our blog post, so keep reading!

What Is Shelf-Ready Packaging?

Shelf-ready packaging is also known as retail-ready packaging. This type of packaging is designed to go straight from shipping to store shelves with less effort. The products inside this type of packaging are ready for immediate display.

In the retail business, time is short. So, for retail owners, it would be quite easy to display products immediately while concentrating on other things. Most common examples of SRP are custom corrugated boxes and folding cartons.

Why Every Retailer Needs it?

Shipping products in their own boxes reduces repacking and excessive use of packing materials because products are shipped in their own boxes. Simply, that means you save yourself from a lot of headaches related to product packaging.

Shifting to SRP depicts that you can innovate your packaging to become more cost-effective and attractive to retailers & customers. This change saves money and simplifies the whole logistics process.

Must-Have Features of SRP

It often comes with built-in features like perforations and customisations that make it accessible for customers on retail shelves.

Additionally, this type of packaging allows the store staff to open it quickly. When opened, products are displayed attractively.

With those things in mind, here are some of the features that make simple packaging an SRP.

1. Customisable to different product styles and sizes. Retailers can fit any shape, size, or structure of product to suit various products and display needs.
2. It is easy to open, so products can be quickly accessible without any need for a tool. Designed with simple tear strips.
3. SRP often comes in windows or cutouts so buyers can easily see the inside product from outside.
4. Guaranteed durability and protection because it’s made from durable materials that don’t deteriorate with time.
5. Space-efficient. These boxes are made by keeping retail space efficiency in mind. They do not cover much space.

How Many Types of Shelf-Ready Packaging Are There?

SRP often comes in different shapes & styles, so you could easily pick the right one for your retail packaging needs. The following are the most trending shapes of SRP.

1. Mailing Boxes

Custom printed mailer boxes come with a top flap that folds down and tucks securely to the front. These boxes are designed for products where visibility and protection without any type of extra effort are a crucial factor.

Best for: Food items, household products, and personal care accessories.

2. Clamshell Boxes

With custom printed clamshell boxes, you get protection and visibility in one compact design. Its hinged shell opens like a clam, which allows customers to check products and provides protection as well. Though it’s often used for smaller items.

Best for: Small products like small accessories, toys & more.

3. Foldable SRP

Foldable boxes offer a clever balance between shipping efficiency and retail usage. These boxes come in a flat shape to save shipping costs, and once they arrive in the store, retailers can quickly assemble them.

Best for: Cleaning products, personal care items, and snack-sized treats.

4. Tray-style Packaging 

A popular SRP packaging featuring a sturdy, open-tray that holds multiple products safely during transport and display. Totally made from thick cardboard and can be easily opened through perforated or tear-away edges.

Best for: Snack packs, multipack beverages, and health supplements.

5. Display-ready Boxes

These boxes arrive fully closed to protect products from any damage during shipping. When ready to sell, retailers can open tear-away panels and change the box into an upright display. Products can be visible after the box opens from the lid.

Best for: Cosmetic items, small gadgets, and toys.

Wrapping Up!

Shelf-ready packaging is a growing trend in retail packaging with plenty of potential. It helps both retailers and customers in multiple ways. The benefits of SRP are a smart investment that delivers the best results.

Emenac Packaging New Zealand is a leading manufacturer of customised retail packaging solutions. When you order from us, we guide you from start to end. So, contact us now or simply send a quote.