08.01.2025

How to use seasonal packaging as a marketing tool

The food industry is crowded, so grabbing customer attention is more crucial than it’s ever been before. 

While the taste of your food is of course the most important thing, you shouldn’t underestimate the power of packaging as a marketing tool. Seasonal packaging is one of the best ways to think outside the box and try out new packaging designs for short periods of time.

Here's how to leverage seasonal takeaway boxes to elevate your marketing game:

1. Stand out on the shelf

We know that as a food business, it’s not like you’re competing on a supermarket shelf, but the idea behind it is still important.

In a sea of generic packaging, be different and choose to stand out! People may see others walking around with their seasonal coffee cups and decide to pay you a visit too or notice your top-notch branding while walking past your store – it can all make a big difference!

2. Create emotional connections

Seasonal packaging taps into the emotions and experiences associated with different times of the year. A box decorated with cherry blossoms will make anyone instantly think of spring, while snowflakes bring all the cosy vibes of winter.

By using seasonal imagery and colours, you connect with customers on a deeper level, fostering brand loyalty and positive associations.

3. Limited edition hype

People love the thrill of exclusivity. Limited-edition seasonal packaging creates a sense of urgency and desirability that makes customers more likely to make a purchase.

This "limited time only" approach encourages impulse buys and drives sales during key periods. 

4. Promote seasonal offerings

Seasonal fast food packaging is a fantastic way to highlight new or limited-edition menu items or products. 

For example, if you’re a bakery that’s launching a new summer berry pie, use images of berries in all of your packaging materials to celebrate this launch.

This visually connects the product to the season, prompting customers to try something new. 

5. Get noticed on social media

Eye-catching seasonal packaging is a natural fit for social media. Encourage customers to share photos of your products in their limited-edition packaging. 

User-generated content is a powerful marketing tool, and seasonal designs create a fun and shareable visual element. 

Embrace the seasons with your packaging

By embracing seasonal packaging, you create a win-win situation. You boost sales through creative marketing, strengthen brand identity, and connect with customers on an emotional level. 

So, get creative, embrace the seasons, and watch your brand take centre stage!

Tags: takeaway business, food business, business tips, food packaging, packaging tips, packaging inspiration