Branded vs Unbranded Packaging: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
Is branded packaging worth the extra cost? We explore the benefits, drawbacks and costs of custom printed packaging to help food businesses decide.
For cafés, restaurants and takeaway businesses, packaging is an unavoidable expense. But should you spend more on branded packaging, or stick with cheaper unbranded alternatives?
It's a question many independent food businesses face, particularly when they're just starting out or trying to keep costs under control.
Branded packaging can help your business stand out, but it isn't always the most economical choice.
In this guide, we'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both options, helping you decide where investing in custom printed packaging makes sense.
What's the Difference Between Branded and Unbranded Packaging?
Unbranded packaging includes plain coffee cups, takeaway bags, food containers and wrapping paper without a business's logo or design.
It's often more affordable in smaller quantities and can be purchased without committing to a custom print run.
Branded packaging features your business's logo, colours or artwork. This can include everything from custom printed coffee cups to personalised paper bags and greaseproof paper.
Although branded packaging can cost more initially, it also gives businesses an opportunity to reinforce their identity with every order.
What Are the Benefits of Branded Packaging?
One of the biggest advantages of branded packaging is visibility.
When a customer leaves your café carrying a coffee cup with your logo, your branding travels with them. The same applies to takeaway bags, food boxes and other packaging.
Branded packaging can also create a more consistent customer experience. Using the same colours, logos and designs across your products helps customers recognise your business.
For businesses that rely on takeaway orders, deliveries or social media exposure, packaging can become another opportunity to make an impression.
However, it's important to remember that branded packaging doesn't automatically generate additional sales. The benefits depend on your business, customer base and how your packaging is used.
When Is Unbranded Packaging the Better Choice?
Unbranded packaging can be a sensible option for businesses that are just getting started, testing new products or operating with limited storage space.
It can also work well when order volumes are unpredictable, as businesses may prefer purchasing smaller quantities rather than committing to larger printed orders.
If your packaging is rarely seen outside your premises, the benefits of custom branding may be less significant.
For some businesses, starting with unbranded packaging and introducing branded products gradually is the most practical approach.
Does Branded Packaging Cost Much More?
The difference in price depends on the packaging product, quantity and printing requirements.
Custom printed packaging may involve minimum order quantities or artwork setup costs, although these vary between products and suppliers.
For businesses ordering larger quantities regularly, the additional cost per item can become relatively small.
The best way to compare is to calculate the cost per unit rather than looking only at the total order price.
For example, if branded packaging costs an additional 3p per item and your business uses 1,000 items each month, that's an additional £30 per month.
Whether that investment is worthwhile depends on how much value you place on consistent branding and customer visibility.
Should Your Business Invest in Branded Packaging?
There's no single answer that works for every business.
If you're opening a new café or takeaway, you might prefer to start with unbranded packaging while you establish your customer base.
Once your order volumes become more predictable, introducing branded coffee cups, bags or food wrapping paper can be a practical next step.
You don't need to brand everything at once. Start with the packaging customers see most often.
For a coffee shop, that might be takeaway cups. For a bakery, it could be paper bags. For a burger restaurant, branded greaseproof paper might make the biggest visual difference.
At Brandemic, we help businesses explore custom printed packaging options with transparent online pricing, so you can decide what works for your budget.
FAQs
- Is branded packaging worth the extra cost?
- Branded packaging can be worthwhile for businesses that want to improve brand recognition and create a consistent customer experience. However, the value depends on order volumes, packaging costs and how customers interact with your products.
- Is unbranded packaging cheaper?
- Unbranded packaging is often cheaper for smaller orders because it doesn't require custom printing. However, the price difference depends on the product and quantity.
- Can small businesses afford branded packaging?
- Yes. Small businesses can start by branding one frequently used product rather than replacing all their packaging. Comparing minimum order quantities and unit prices can help identify an affordable starting point.
- What packaging should a café brand first?
- Takeaway coffee cups are often a good starting point because customers carry them outside the café. Paper bags and food wrapping paper are also worth considering, depending on what the business sells.