The "shared area" of snack packaging has caused controversy: to reduce costs or to frustrate consumers
Recently, the packaging method of some snack brands has caused widespread controversy. After purchasing snacks, some consumers find that what appears to be a rich product on the surface is actually not satisfactory. From biscuits recessed, seaweed underlay desiccant, to cartons of milk filled with cardboard, these unusual packaging designs raise questions about the "shared area" of snack products.
Snack brands have adopted a series of packaging designs in order to make their products look more "material", but these superficial richness hides the lack of actual content. This practice of "shared area", while it may help to reduce costs and improve profit margins, is misleading and dishonest to consumers.
However, this packaging strategy of snack brands is not an isolated case. A number of large snack companies have shown a downward trend in net profit in their financial reports in the first three quarters of this year. The net profit attributable to the parent company of Qiaqia Food decreased by 19 year-on-year28%, Laiyifen's net profit fell to 9357%, and the net profit attributable to the parent company of BESTORE also decreased by 33% year-on-year43%。In order to resist downward pressure, manufacturers seem to be inclined to adopt the packaging method of "shared area" to reduce costs.
This practice of using packaging "shared area" to reduce costs has raised consumer concerns about product integrity and quality. Consumers want to get real value for the products they buy, and this kind of packaging method that is "material" but actually "shrinks" may lead to damage to brand image and reduce consumer trust.
In the face of fierce competition in the snack market and the pressure of rising costs, companies need more innovation and sincerity to meet consumer demand. Relying solely on the low-cost means of "shared area" may bring short-term economic benefits, but in the long run, it may hurt brand reputation and market share. In terms of packaging design, we should devote more care and sincerity to give back to consumers with real value, rather than relying on false appearances to attract attention.