Objectives
An artisan sourdough bread producer was seeking a more premium packaging solution to support the growth of its business. The project included preliminary packaging dimensions and costing for new bags and labels, with the goal of upgrading packaging appearance without sacrificing performance while reducing the total capital required to update. The challenge was that the intended package was not readily available in the US and timelines were tight.
Key Analyses
Packaging Assessment
Reviewed and assessed several packaging directions, including current poly, paper with window (wicketed and non-wicketed), a poly bag within a paper bag, and LDPE paper-like print.
Research EU & US suppliers that could provide the complex structure at a reasonable price & lead time.
Evaluate packaging and testing protocols to ensure product shelf expectations so the business wouldn’t lose money to out of date bread, given the supply chain timelines.
Supplier & Specification Review
Identified a paper/poly wicketed bag supplier partnership able to run on the brand’s existing wicket equipment, with production overseas and domestic warehousing.
Specified bag dimensions, materials, and label requirements for both product lines.
Results
Proposed Packaging Direction
Selected the paper/poly wicketed bag as the option that most closely matched the brand’s goals: elevating appearance without sacrificing performance, all while reducing total capital required.
Implementation Roadmap
Delivered a clear next-steps timeline covering bag and ship testing, supplier artwork approval, and first production order.