What is CPG Packaging Design?

The Problem: Your Product Is Invisible

You’ve got a great product. One you believe in. One your customers would love if they actually noticed it.

But let’s be honest. Shelves in Woolies or Chemist Warehouse are jam-packed. Online shopping is even more chaotic. Everyone’s shouting for attention.

In this sea of options, your packaging has just three seconds to grab the customer’s eye. If it doesn’t, you lose the sale.

The Agitation: Unseen Means Unsold

You might not realise it yet, but your packaging could be holding you back.

Maybe you’re getting glowing reviews from existing customers, but new ones are ignoring you. You’ve paid for premium shelf space, but buyers still grab your competitor. Or maybe your product is premium, but your packaging gives off discount-bin energy.

When your packaging doesn’t communicate clearly or quickly, it makes shoppers feel uncertain. And uncertainty doesn’t sell.

The Solution: Strategic CPG Packaging That Drives Sales

That’s where smart design comes in.

CPG packaging design is more than wrapping your product in something pretty. It’s about creating packaging that stands out, communicates instantly and builds trust with your customer.

According to SmashBrand, great CPG design starts with understanding how customers shop. You need packaging that tells a story, signals value and builds credibility in an instant.

At Quirk Design Studio, we create packaging that:

• Gets noticed on busy shelves and digital scrolls

• Clearly explains your product and its benefits

• Builds trust through thoughtful design and layout

• Helps convert casual browsers into loyal buyers

Because good packaging doesn’t just sit there looking nice. It sells.

What is CPG Packaging Design?

CPG stands for Consumer Packaged Goods. These are everyday items people buy often, use quickly and replace regularly. Think snacks, shampoo, vitamins or cleaning spray.

CPG packaging design is the process of creating the external look, feel and messaging of these products. It includes:

• The shape of the container (box, pouch, bottle, tube)

• Colour palette, typeface and branding

• Labels, claims and ingredient info

• Product messaging and layout

It’s a mix of functionality and psychology. The goal is to make a product appealing, memorable and clear enough to earn trust at a glance.

According to Govisually, CPG packaging is a brand’s handshake. It’s your one chance to connect with a shopper before they move on.

Why CPG Packaging Matters in Australia

Here in Australia, competition is fierce. You’re not just up against global giants, but also loads of clever local brands.

Aussie customers are savvy. They expect honesty, clarity and sustainability. If your packaging doesn’t deliver that, they’ll move on.

Your packaging needs to:

• Reflect Australian values like quality, sustainability and transparency

• Stand out in major retailers like Woolworths, Coles and Chemist Warehouse

• Compete with slick international brands and authentic local ones

• Be optimised for both shelf display and ecommerce thumbnails

If you’re not building trust within the first few seconds, you’re getting left behind.

Key Trends in CPG Packaging Design for 2025

1. Eco-friendly Materials
Australians are choosing products that align with their values. Compostable wrappers, recyclable containers and minimal plastic are more than trends. They’re expectations.

2. Simplicity Wins
Clear, minimalist packaging cuts through visual noise. It’s easier to scan, easier to trust and more likely to be picked up.

3. Bold Colour and Typography
Flat fonts and subtle tones are out. Strong, vibrant designs that stand out at a glance are in.

4. Functional Packaging
Think resealable pouches, portioned packs or QR codes that lead to helpful info. Smart design equals happier customers.

5. Authentic Storytelling
More Aussies want to know where their product came from and why it matters. Packaging should highlight values like “Locally Made”, “Sustainably Sourced” or “Backed by Science”.

The Quirk Studio Method

At Quirk Design Studio, we don't do generic. We build CPG packaging that earns trust and moves product. Our process includes:

• Research into your category, competitors and customers

• Strategic planning to nail your brand messaging

• Custom visual design that reflects your product’s value

• Real-world testing to make sure it performs on shelf and online

We don’t just want your packaging to look good. We want it to work hard, just like you do.

Ready to Redesign Your Packaging?

We help Aussie brands like yours create standout packaging that attracts the right customers and drives results.

• Strategy-first approach tailored to your audience

• Premium packaging design for food, supplements, cosmetics and more

• Clear, bold designs that sell in-store and online

Let’s make your product the one that gets picked first.
Visit quirkdesign.au to get started.

FAQs

What is CPG package design?

CPG package design is the process of designing packaging for everyday products like snacks, cosmetics, supplements and cleaning goods. It combines practical layout with visual strategy to ensure the product grabs attention, builds trust and drives sales in both physical stores and online platforms.

What does CPG stand for?

CPG stands for Consumer Packaged Goods. These are low-cost, fast-moving products that customers purchase regularly, such as groceries, toiletries and over-the-counter health products.

What are the innovations of CPG packaging?

Modern CPG packaging is all about performance, sustainability and connection. Innovations include:

• Eco-conscious materials like recyclable paperboard and compostable films

• Smart packaging features like resealable pouches or dispensers

• QR codes and augmented reality links for extra info

• Minimalist, bold visuals that catch the eye faster

• Neuromarketing-informed layouts to guide decision-making

These updates make products easier to understand, more desirable and better for the planet.

Final Thoughts: If It’s Not Selling, It’s Not Working

Your packaging is more than a wrapper. It’s a silent salesperson, a brand builder and a difference-maker. Done right, it gets you noticed, earns trust and boosts your bottom line.

Ask yourself:

• Would your customer choose your product based on packaging alone?

• Is your current design clear, trustworthy and appealing?

• Does it stand out from the competition?

If the answer is no, it might be time for a rethink.