But here’s the challenge: smaller businesses don’t always have the same budgets, volumes, or resources as national brands. That makes food packaging for small business even more critical as every choice needs to balance cost, functionality, and brand positioning.
At ICPG, we work with food businesses of all sizes, and we’ve seen how the right packaging solutions can help small companies compete with the big players. Here are some practical tips and watch-outs to guide your decisions:
Not all plastics are created equal. Materials like polypropylene (PP) or APET can offer excellent clarity, durability, and recyclability while still being cost-effective.
Tip: Ask about lead times and availability. Widely used materials are easier to source, reducing supply chain risks.
Watch out for: Specialty resins with long lead times or limited suppliers. For small businesses, that can create bottlenecks or unexpected price swings.
It’s tempting to pick a packaging format that works “just for now,” but quick fixes can become expensive when you scale. Selecting materials and formats compatible with multiple forming and sealing methods will help you avoid costly redesigns down the line.
Tip: Work with suppliers who understand both your short-term and long-term goals. Small design choices today—like flange width or wall thickness—can make scaling smoother tomorrow.
Watch out for: Custom formats that require unique tooling or equipment that may not be practical at higher volumes.
For consumer-facing products, packaging is often the first impression. Clear materials like APET or PETG showcase your food while also signaling quality. Even simple thermoformed trays can elevate your product’s perceived value.
Tip: Prioritize clarity and durability if your product is retail-facing. A package that cracks or fogs quickly undermines customer trust.
Watch out for: Over-design. Complex shapes or excessive packaging can raise costs and frustrate customers who value simplicity and recyclability.
Consumers increasingly care about whether packaging is recyclable. Using recyclable materials such as mono-layer polypropylene or APET can help small brands stand out while staying ahead of evolving retail and regulatory expectations.
Tip: Check guidelines like How2Recycle or APR Design Guide to ensure your packaging meets current recycling standards.
Watch out for: Multi-layer or mixed-material formats that may perform well but don’t meet recycling requirements. These can become liabilities under new EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) laws.
Most small businesses don’t have in-house packaging engineers or production lines—and that’s okay. ICPG maintains close relationships with thermoforming partners who specialize in smaller custom-size applications, making it easier for small brands to create the right fit without overspending. We also work closely with equipment suppliers, helping ensure that as your production grows, your packaging can scale seamlessly with the right machinery and process support.
Tip: Ask your supplier if they can connect you with downstream partners for forming, sealing, or filling support.
Watch out for: Assuming packaging suppliers only provide sheet or film. The best ones, like ICPG, bring a network of partners who can save you time and money.
For small food businesses, packaging isn’t just an operational detail—it’s a growth driver. By choosing the right materials, planning for scale, focusing on shelf appeal and sustainability, and tapping into supplier partnerships, you can ensure your packaging not only protects your product but also helps build your brand.
At ICPG, we specialize in food packaging for small businesses and large-scale manufacturers alike, delivering solutions that fit every stage of growth. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your operations, our team—and our network of thermoforming and equipment partners—are here to guide you toward solutions that fit your goals, budget, and long-term vision. Reach out to our team to get started today.