For packagers, in the changing —and challenging — landscape of wooden industrial packaging, staying ahead of evolving customer needs is essential for staying competitive and driving new growth.
Indeed, wooden industrial packaging is critical for many businesses, and it’s a versatile solution for the packaging, protection, shipping, and promotion of its products. The continued importance of wooden industrial packaging is rooted in its various attributes, from its sustainability, as wood is renewable and recyclable, to its environmental friendliness, with minimal energy required for manufacturing. Its durability, strength, and suitability for large and heavy items and its cost-effectiveness and customizability enable shippers to tailor packaging solutions to particular needs is unsurpassed. The popularity and significance of wooden industrial packaging are highlighted by its impressive current market size, $4.23 billion, and the expectations for its continued growth to an estimated $6.58 billion by 2030.
Keeping One Step Ahead
For one leading wooden industrial packaging company with over thirty years of experience enjoying that market growth, adapting to new customer demands is an ongoing priority. Its proficiency at staying one step ahead of industry standards, marketing trends, and competitors is tied to the automation of its wooden case production.
However, the company’s managers recently faced a technology test that was out of their reach: to provide intricate branding designs and complex information individually designed according to customer requirements on their wooden case panels. The company decided to reach out for expert assistance.
The company turned to AstroNova.
AstroNova, in collaboration with a local OEM partner, devised an answer that tailored AstroNova’s T3-OPX cutting-edge wide-format, direct-to-package digital inkjet printing system to meet specific needs. The solution would deliver detailed, high-quality images, according to customer designs, on the company’s flat wooden panels.
The result was a customized conveyor transport and printing system based on the T3-OPX, featuring a unique laser alignment feature. This innovative addition ensured precise panel loading, guaranteeing impeccable printing accuracy and consistency.
Since implementing the T3-OPX solution, the company has experienced a remarkable transformation in its operations. Recognizing the potential of the innovation, the wooden packaging company seized the opportunity to enhance its capabilities and exceed expectations with a new offering that could benefit all its customers. They have seamlessly integrated intricate branding elements into their wooden case production process, effectively meeting the rising demands of their discerning customers. The ability to deliver detailed, high-quality images on flat wooden panels has enhanced the aesthetic appeal of their packaging and strengthened their brand identity in the market.
Company needs for on-case branding can vary widely, but they all share a common demand — quality results:
- Identification: Clear branding helps identify container ownership and origin. Whether en route or holding for transfer or delivery, distinct branding eases locating and managing cases.
- Marketing: Even while their primary purpose may be functional, wooden containers are simultaneously an opportunity for brand advertising. A branded container anywhere en route is a moving billboard and potentially reaches a broad audience.
- Professionalism: A company’s brand is a valued asset. Displaying the company brand on any packaging instantly delivers the company message with a display of professionalism and reliability. Branded products and packages carry through a company’s message of differentiation from its competitors. In a competitive market, branded packaging stands out for recognition and loyalty.
- Security: In purely functional terms, in cases of theft or misplacement, branded packaging is more accessible for identification, tracking, and recovery. Moreover, bold package branding provides a visible marker that can also help distinguish legitimate containers from unauthorized ones.
- Compliance: Companies doing business in multiple countries must adhere to packaging labeling and identification regulations. Proper branding ensures compliance with such rules and helps avoid legal issues, monetary fines, and shipping delays.
What began as an out-of-the-reach technology challenge, the T3-OPX system transformed into an opportunity enabling the company to differentiate itself from competitors and position itself as a preferred choice for customers seeking premium packaging solutions. By embracing innovation and leveraging AstroNova’s printing technology capabilities, the company has solidified its market position and opened new avenues for growth.
Adapting and innovating is paramount in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. With AstroNova’s TrojanLabel T3-OPX, the wooden packaging company has not only met the challenges of today but well-positioned itself to seize new opportunities and surmount the new challenges of tomorrow. As market and customer demands continue to evolve, as they will always do, investing in advanced package printing solutions is both a strategic investment and a pathway to sustained success and industry leadership.
