Product, price, place and promotion--those are the classic 4 Ps of marketing. Many experts say that packaging is the fifth P because it reflects and integrates the other four elements. With engaging packaging, brands can convey their emotional sides without sacrificing storage functions.
Browse the case studies on Packaging News and you'll see how packaging has been designed to 'sell from the shelf', add value through specific benefits that target specific audiences, convey brand values and more.
For example, Yorkshire-based bakery brand Grandma Wild's commissioned unique packaging for its biscuit and fudge products, with the idea that the nostalgic camper-van packages would not only attract attention in stores, they could be toys after the baked goods are gone. Packaging has been a vital element in Grandma's marketing tool kit for decades as it addresses the needs of particular target markets.
Take a look at packaging created by award-winning designers, as featured on the Design Intellect site. These packages show creativity in helping to sell products from the shelf, reinforcing brand logos, highlighting product benefits and accomplishing other marketing objectives in addition to protecting products and keeping them safe and convenient.
When you're in London, you can visit the Museum of Brands and see more packaging from the past 100+ years, along with advertising. Visit its Facebook page for the latest info.