Cardboard packaging finishes: the key to an eye-catching and lasting appearance

Why finishes are a worthwhile investment

High-quality finishing is a sign of product quality and serves to strengthen the brand image. In a time when both consumer demands and environmental challenges are increasing, refinement is an indispensable element of modern packaging production.

The most popular finishing methods

Cold foil stamping: This technique creates a metallic effect and gives the packaging a luxurious appearance without compromising the ability to recycle it.

Example from PAWI:

Hot foil stamping: With this technique, metal coatings – often in gold or silver – are applied to the cardboard via heat and pressure. It is ideal for high-quality products that require an elegant appearance.

Examples from PAWI:

Embossing, deep embossing, blind embossing: These techniques press motifs onto the surface of the cardboard that can be deep or raised and with or without a foil. This gives the motif a three-dimensional appearance and a sense of elegance.

Examples from PAWI:

Coatings: UV offset or water-based coatings can be applied over the entire surface or selectively to achieve a gloss or matt effect and to highlight selected graphic elements in a skilful yet subtle way.

Examples from PAWI:

Holographic foils: Special microscopic patterns create colourful, shimmering effects that can accentuate the packaging as a whole or specific elements of it.

Example from PAWI:

Lamination: A film that protects the cardboard while giving it an elegant appearance. This can be glossy or matt and protects the packaging against moisture, dirt and mechanical damage.

Industry examples of finishing techniques

The choice of finishing depends heavily on the industry and market positioning:

Cosmetics and alcohol: The focus in this branch is on luxury, with the result that cold and hot foil stamping, coatings and embossing, deep embossing and blind embossing are often used.

Food supplements: Aesthetics are less important here, so the finishes are usually simpler.

Premium chocolate: A mix of high-grade and medium-grade finishes is used to attract attention on the shelf.

Food: The focus is on functional protection, usually by means of a simple coating or lamination.

Overview of finishes by sector:

Finishes as a brand ambassador

Modern packaging solutions increasingly rely on environmentally friendly materials and designs that minimise the consumption of raw materials and optimise the packaging process. Attractive finishes enhance shelf presence and boost consumer interest. They contribute to a positive brand experience and can have a lasting impact on consumer perception.