Fast food brands appeal to young consumers with tech-driven packaging
Implications - Part of a growing push to gain back the business of Millennials and Gen Z, fast food brands are launching creative tech-driven takeout packaging that serves to entice those with a digital compromise. This progression highlights the ways in which brands can aid and delight consumers by providing a unexpected feature that helps offset the inconveniences of modern life.
Workshop Question - How can you better engage your consumer by delivering an elevated packaging experience?
Trend Themes
1. Tech-enhanced Takeout Packaging - As consumers become more concerned with digital experiences, restaurant chains may consider incorporating interactive packaging designs like projectors, VR headsets, music stations or phone-charging boxes to attract younger generations.
2. Environmental Dual-purpose Packaging - As demand for sustainability solutions rise, restaurant chains may consider creating packaging designs that function as VR headsets or music stations and will not only reduce waste, but also provide an unexpected feature to customers.
3. Cross-industry Collaborations - As more brands begin to adopt technological innovations, many more brands will emerge that aim to fill gaps in the market, and business professionals in the food industry are encouraged to explore these collaborations for development opportunities.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant Industry - The restaurant industry as a whole will benefit from these new tech-infused takeaway packaging designs as it aims to offer novel experiences to younger consumers.
2. Environmental Solutions Industry - The environmental solutions industry should offer a wide variety of sustainable packaging options for restaurant chains to improve their packaging designs and reduce waste.
3. Technology Industry - The technology industry plays an important role in developing innovative packaging designs that may be integrated into restaurant merchandising for new and engaging customer experiences.
