Neuropackaging: when science meets packaging

Neuropackaging is a field of research and application that combines packaging design with neuroscience and the psychology of end consumer behavior.

Its main goal is to use knowledge about the human mind and decision-making processes to create more effective and emotionally engaging packaging, in order to influence buyers’ purchasing decisions.

After all, we have said it a thousand times: a good packaging idea has the power to foster a significant connection with the consumer and contribute to the success of the product and the brand.

But how can we establish this connection using Neuropackaging and what are its areas of analysis and application?

Let’s find it out together.

Neuroimaging, Eye-Tracking and Consumer Psychology

The areas of analysis and application of Neuropackaging vary according to the specific objectives of the company and the research in progress. The use of neuroscience and psychology in packaging design is in fact an ever-expanding field, as companies are increasingly interested in better understanding consumers’ behaviors and emotions, so as to create engaging packages capable of responding to their needs.

Among the most interesting areas related to the study of consumer preferences and intentions we have:

– Neuroimaging, i.e. the analysis of brain activity through techniques that allow for the observation of changes in the brain of consumers when they are exposed to different types of packaging, helping to identify which characteristics arouse positive or negative emotional responses.

– Oculometry, which involves the use of eye-tracking devices to monitor the movements of the eyes of consumers as they look at product packages, making it possible to identify which elements of the packaging attract the attention and visual focus of consumers the most.

– Consumer psychology, i.e. the study of consumer behaviour, through which it is possible to analyze decision-making processes and their preferences with respect to packaging design. This includes understanding the emotions, mental associations and perceptions that packaging is able to evoke.

These techniques are essential for predicting and studying the customer’s buying moves. It is for this reason that the application of Neuropackaging in points of sale is increasingly widespread: the goal is to strategically organize the products on the shelves and use the packaging design to guide purchasing decisions.