Chinese cuisine is among the most famous cuisines around the world. Its quick preparation and taste make it ideal for millions to enjoy and snack on. The rise in demand has encouraged many individuals to open a Chinese restaurant. To stand out, owners are using custom Chinese food boxes. This plays a major role in giving customers a memorable experience. Contact Packaging Mania for creating the perfect packaging strategy for your food items.
As the name suggests, Chinese food boxes, are used to pack delicious foods originating from the region of China. They are commonly made with cardboard and folded to make a small, portable package to enjoy food. To have a sturdier look, the boxes also come with a wire frame. Surprisingly, the boxes are more popular in countries like the USA than in China.
Beginning
The history of this packaging innovation dates back to 1894. Here a New York-based inventor Frederick Weeks Wilcox, got an innovative idea of packing oysters. Getting inspiration from Japanese origami, he came up with a box that would take the industry by storm. Before this invention, Chinese immigrants used to transport oysters in small paper containers. The foldable and interlocking design made the boxes easy to make and carry. This made restaurants use the boxes in their favor and give customers a unique experience.
Design
The design of the box contains folded paper borders along with wire handles. Frederick made the design as an improvement to the oyster pail that was popular at that time. The unique design enabled the box to be easily folded and closed, making it secure and portable. After it increased in popularity, these boxes started to come with Chinese graphics on them. Companies started to add a “pagoda” symbol along with a “thank you” written in Chinese calligraphy. They also came in red which represents good fortune in the Chinese culture. This attracted mostly Chinese people who were away from their homeland.
Today’s Scenario
Looking at it today, this way of packaging revolutionized the fast-food industry. The boxes are not only used in Chinese takeaways, but also in cafes, street food joints, and many others. Numerous packaging companies modify these boxes and incorporate lids for a better customer experience.
Packaging today is not only about storing food, it has gone way beyond that. A great packaging strategy has wide benefits but to achieve them requires planning. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Size
The first point to consider is the size of the box you are making. This depends on the portions you are willing to add to the takeaway. Generally, these boxes can fit 16 to 32 ounces of food. The type of food being packaged also matters as rolls will require different boxes than a portion of rice. There are other custom options available depending on the requirements of the restaurant.
Color and Graphics
The color of the box is important to improve the overall appeal and increase brand perception. Many colors can be added to the parcels; however, red is preferred due to its Chinese heritage. Graphics like the logo of the restaurant and the name of the company should also be inserted. Many companies use foiling, which makes the logo shiny and visible even more.
Material
The material is another major factor to keep an eye on. Chinese takeaways in the recent past were also stored in plastic containers. This did make the box stronger, however, with the recent environmental issues companies avoid this now. Materials like cardboard and paper are the preferred options due to their sustainability. The latest material like kraft is also a great option to choose if the company wants a rustic look to the box.
If made properly, the packaging can provide several benefits for your business. Here are some of the pros these attractive boxes bring:
Maintaining Quality
Fast food is mainly consumed because of the amount of time it saves, especially for the working class. However, what if the food served to the customer is poor in quality? With so many options available, they will switch to your competitors. To avoid that, companies use cardboard boxes that are heat absorbent which keeps the food dry. This ensures that the food inside remains fresh for a long time, thus, satisfying customers.
Connect With Customers
Chinese restaurants are famous for packaging their dishes in a very innovative way. They were first meant to develop an emotional connection with Chinese people who migrated to Western countries. The bright red color attracts customers as well and increases their chance to come back.
Save Costs
With attractive designs and a premium feel, custom Chinese food boxes might look like an expensive option to choose for packaging. However, with so much competition in the packaging industry, companies offer affordable rates. This allows restaurants to use these boxes without denting their budget.
To create custom Chinese food boxes that will tempt customers, it is ideal to discuss with professionals. Packaging Mania gives companies a platform where they can discuss with professionals and create boxes that increase sales. What are you waiting for? Contact us now for a flawless solution to your packaging needs.
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