Client Objective: Sustainable Global Packaging
Today, 80% of the largest CPG companies have made sustainability commitments with the goal of making all their packaging recyclable or compostable by 2030. However, under 30% are truly prepared to meet the requirements.
Our client is setting themselves apart and taking real steps with their packaging to make their sustainability efforts a reality.
One of the world’s largest beverage manufacturers is committed to eliminating plastic from its packaging on a global scale. To achieve this, the client is exploring the sensory, functional, and ergonomic characteristics of six prototypes compared to their current market packaging.
Their goal is to ensure that their core products continue to be delivered in packaging that is both environmentally conscious and meets consumer approval.
Our Approach
Combining Curion’s Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA®) and CLT methods provides a powerful framework for evaluating packaging to enhance product quality and sustainability. This synergy of methods also included domestic and international consumer data, giving us deeper insight into package quality, sustainability, and a large competitive scope.
Learn more about the 50-year anniversary of Curion QDA®.
Curion QDA® + CLT
Two heads are better than one
- WHAT: Which package options will consumers prefer?
- WHY: Which features are most important in driving consumer preference, and why?
- HOW: Will we need to optimize our prototypes further, and what direction should we focus on?
Curion QDA®
Curion QDA® offers detailed sensory profiling from a highly-trained panel, allowing us to understand distinctive consumer interactions with packaging materials.
- Assess the sensory, ergonomic, and functional features of the packages and quantify the similarities and differences among them.
- Identify which prototypes should advance to a CLT.
Interactive Consumer CLT
We took this study a step further and paired this with an Interactive Consumer CLT. We created a mock-shelf study in a controlled setting to simulate the real-world experience from a c-store environment, having consumers shop, transport, and remove cans from the packaging.
- Analyze and assess consumer satisfaction and acceptance of the different prototypes.
Results
Based on findings from the Curion QDA® and CLT, one prototype pulled ahead as one of the top performing in North America and Europe. The client confidently picked this packaging format and launched globally. This partnership enabled our client to begin their global transition to fully recyclable and sustainably sourced packaging.
