The legal cannabis market is growing exponentially. There is stiff competition, so making the right first impression is essential.
Growth of the cannabis industry is steadily increasing. Research predicts annual use sales by legal adults are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% from $7.4 billion to $19 billion between 2019 and 2025.
The right cannabis packaging design makes all the difference. It’s the first aspect of your CPG brand customers see.
Cannabis packaging is constantly changing to meet new demands. One example of this is the introduction of child-resistant containers.
There is an emphasis on finding innovative methods to market cannabis products. Both producers and manufacturers are working to reinvent the wheel. Here are five top trends in legal cannabis packaging and branding to help inform your choices.
1. Pay Attention to Compliance and Design
Companies are making creative choices for their cannabis packaging. No matter the design, legal compliance must remain at the forefront. This will vary by state, so check the requirements and regulations before making decisions.
Even after you settle on a design, recheck the regulations before moving forward with production. This ensures you are meeting the latest requirements. Creative design boosts visibility, and following regulations builds trust in your brand.
2. Create Child-Resistant Packaging
As mentioned above, many companies are using child-resistant packaging for their legal cannabis products. The increase in availability leads to the need for packaging that prevents children from accidentally ingesting these products at harmful levels.
Child-resistant packaging includes bottles and jars with caps that children will be unable to open. Check child-resistant (C-R) packaging regulations for products that include:
- THC
- CBD
- Marijuana
3. Choose Eco-Friendly Packaging
Many companies and customers alike are concerned with sustainability. Make your cannabis packaging eco-friendly, and it will match your products.
Cannabis is a natural solution, so the packaging should be too. Popular packaging includes paper products and hemp-based sacks.
Glass bottles that are amber, green, or blue in color help decrease the environmental impact. They also keep products potent for a longer period while maintaining natural UV filtering capabilities.
4. Create a Sophisticated Design
The new design and branding of legal cannabis products focuses on the professional consumer who is knowledgeable about the product. Use bright colors, clean edges, and a minimalist cannabis packaging design.
There is an emphasis on psychedelic imagery with contemporary graphics. High-quality logos are important as they make the packaging look more stylish.
Some new design trends are:
- Clean shapes and sleek packaging
- Stamped gold and silver foil
- Embossing
- Frosted glass
- A high-quality brand marketing design that targets professionals
Cannabis packaging will take on new designs that are market-specific. Users will be able to distinguish between products for medicinal or recreational use.
5. Create a Brand Image
A strong brand image will echo product consistency. Consumers will know they can depend on your brand to deliver every time.
A consistent brand image will stand out on dispensary shelves. It will also help prevent brand counterfeiting. Customers will recognize your distinct brand over a poor imitation.
The Cannabis market is still going strong, even breaking record sales. A recent report shows that legal sales across the U.S. have now reached $17.5 billion, a 46% increase from 2019. Remaining creative and keeping up with the latest packaging trends will ensure your brand will sustain visibility in a market that will only continue to evolve.
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