The survey showed that paper packaging is preferred for European consumers

Two Sides organized the European Packaging Preferences 2020 study conducted online by independent research company, Toluna. It is the survey of consumer preferences, perceptions, and attitudes towards packaging that were undertaken in Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the UK.

Respondents were asked about four different packaging materials: paper/cardboard, glass, plastic and metal base on 15 environmental, practical and visual attributes, such as product protection and ease of opening/closing. Paper/cardboard came out as average European favorite for 10 of the 15 attributes, glass for 4 of 10, metal for 1 from 10 and plastic for none.

Paper and cardboard packaging is preferred for its recyclable nature, lighter weight, ease of opening and lower cost. 57% of respondents said that paper/cardboard is the easiest material to recycle and 62% noted that it is better for the environment.

Glass packaging is the preferred choice because of it better protection of products (51%) and of it reusable (55%). Metal packaging is the preferred choice for being stronger (51%).

According to the results of the study, it is clear that plastic packaging does not rank highest for any attribute. Besides 46% of respondents said that they are buying more from retailers who are removing plastic from their packaging and 70% confirmed that they are actively taking steps to reduce the use of plastic packaging.

Interesting Facts that more than half of people prefer products ordered online to be delivered in paper packaging and 44% of consumers stated that they would be willing to spend more on a product if it was packaged using environmentally friendly materials.

Jonathan Tame, managing director of Two Sides, said: “Consumers are becoming more aware of the packaging choices for the items they buy, which in turn is applying pressure on businesses – particularly in retail. The culture of ‘make, use, dispose’ is slowly changing.”

Study shows that paper/cardboard can be a more sustainable option. Key attributes for the paper-based packaging are safety, practicality, simple storage and an ability to display better product.

More facts about the European Packaging Preferences 2020 study can be found here.