Unlock packaging brilliance: 4 game-changing benefits of digital printing

 

With countless products competing for consumer attention, capturing your target market’s interest has never been more important. Packaging is a powerful tool to make that connection, and digital printing is a game-changer when it comes to delivering the speed and flexibility needed to make your packaging unforgettable.

Did you know 72% of shoppers say packaging influences their buying decisions (Ipsos)? With its high-quality, sustainable, and fully customisable designs, digitally printed packaging is the secret weapon your brand needs to cut through the noise and leave a lasting impression.

• High-quality graphics for premium designs
• Speedy turnaround to meet tight deadlines
• Perfect for printing multiple artworks
• Supports sustainability goals

1. High-quality graphics for premium designs

With premium packaging designs boosting shelf appeal by up to 30% (Packaging Digest), the quality of your packaging is more important than ever before. Digital printing uses bright and bold colours, crisp imagery and detailed finishes to create a premium look and feel.

 

It enhances the overall perception of your brand and shows customers you’re willing to go above and beyond to provide a high-quality digital printing option. It also helps your products to stand out on shelves and screens while creating a sense of trust and professionalism that helps set your brand apart.

Consumers tend to associate the quality of your packaging with the quality of the product inside, and 89% of consumers say quality is the second most important factor when making a purchase, only slightly behind value for money (EMARKETER). When people see visually appealing and high-quality packaging, they assume the product inside will follow suit.

2. Speedy turnaround to meet tight deadlines

Digital printing is the perfect solution for brands that need speed without sacrificing quality. With only 55% of product launches hitting their target dates (Gartner), a fast turnaround could be your business’s secret to standing out as a brand that thrives under pressure.

 

Whether it's a last-minute tweak to your packaging design or waiting on a game-changing sports result to finalise your artwork, digital printing gives you the flexibility to make real-time adjustments effortlessly. The result? Your packaging is always relevant, fresh, and ready to roll—no matter the deadline.

This rapid turnaround means you can get your products into customers' hands quicker than ever. 79% of companies with top-performing supply chains see above-average revenue growth (Deloitte), and efficient packaging production plays a key role in that success.

With quick and speed digital printing, you can stay agile, respond to market shifts, and still deliver stunning, high-quality packaging that elevates your brand.

3. Perfect for printing multiple artworks

Seasonal, limited-edition and personalised packaging grabs attention by making your product feel exclusive – and with 60% of consumers buying due to FOMO, fear of missing out (Trust Pulse), creating that sense of urgency is key to driving sales. Digital printing gives you the power to quickly craft packaging that is truly one-of-a-kind.

 

Whether you need festive holiday packaging designs or unique promotional packaging for a big sale, digital printing offers the flexibility to print multiple variations with ease. Nearly half of UK shoppers say that packaging plays a big role in their unboxing experience (Internet Retailing), and digital printing ensures your packaging stays fresh, on-trend, and perfectly tailored to the season.

Also, with no need for expensive plates or large minimum order quantities, you can affordably create a range of personalised designs that keep your brand exciting and relevant all year round.

4. Supports sustainability goals

Sustainable packaging is more than just a trend - 75% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands offering eco-friendly products, and 49% are even willing to pay more for sustainable packaging (Deloitte). In today’s market, aligning with sustainability isn’t just a way to win over consumers who care about the planet - it’s key to meeting both customer expectations and business sustainability goals.

Digital printing plays a pivotal role by allowing you to produce only what’s needed, minimising waste and avoiding excess inventory. This efficiency helps reduce resource consumption and environmental impact, making sustainability a core part of your brand’s strategy.

 

Additionally, with the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which aims to cut packaging waste across the EU, opting for digitally printed packaging ensures your business stays ahead of regulations. Not only does it meet eco-conscious consumer demands, but it also demonstrates your commitment to a circular economy and responsible packaging practices.

Learn more about the PPWR and how it could affect your business.

Considering the benefits, it’s easy to see why digital flexible packaging has made a name for itself as one of the best options for ambitious brands looking to stand out and make a statement.

Whether you’re looking for custom packaging boxes with a logo or need last-minute packaging for a seasonal promotion, we can help.

Get in touch with Smurfit Westrock to find out more today.