As the owner of a food business, you’ll know the market is ultra-competitive, which is why it’s crucial to stand out among the competition.
One way to do this is by offering a superior dining experience, creating a lasting impression on your customers that should see them come back again and again.
So the million-dollar question is how do you go about doing this? Well, obviously a big part of this comes down to the quality of your food, but aside from that, there are some packaging items you can offer your customers that will increase their enjoyment.
Here we’ll go over some of the best fast food packaging items you can offer your customers that will boost their enjoyment, increasing the likelihood of them becoming repeat customers.
New Rules
Before we go into the specifics every dessert shop will need to serve their food, let’s first touch on the new rules that were put in place by the UK government in late 2023.
Since October 1st, the use of single-use plastic items for food and beverages by takeaways and food outlets has been prohibited. The wide-ranging list of items the government has decided to ban includes single-use plastic cutlery, plastic packaging and polystyrene containers and cups.
The ban covers all online and over-the-counter sales and it includes items from new and existing stock. So it doesn’t matter how or where you’re selling your desserts – you won’t be permitted to use these items unless they’re biodegradable.
Likewise, if you’ve got stock left over from last year, sadly you’ll be unable to use it without breaking the rules.
The new rules state that anyone found still using single-use plastic by local authorities or Trading Standards departments will face a fine and prosecution, underscoring the seriousness of the issue.
Packaging Items For Happy Customers
The following items should ensure you offer the best dining experience possible:
Drinks Holders
If you offer drinks then you’ll want your customers to purchase as many as possible! But remember to provide drink holders, otherwise they may struggle to get them home in one piece.
Think about it: nothing will infuriate a customer like a spilled smoothie or milkshake all over their car and the clean-up job may be significant! So help them avoid this nightmare scenario and improve the chances of them coming back to your shop with this simple but effective packaging item.
Coffee Cup Lids
If you’re serving coffee or other hot beverages, remember to include lids on your cups. Okay, so we’re not exactly offering the magic recipe to success with this one, but sometimes it’s the obvious ones that we forget!
Lids prevent your customers from scalding themselves or seeing their heartwarming drinks pour out all over the floor, so don’t forget to offer lids for takeaway beverages.
Cutlery
Certain food calls for the use of either a spoon or fork to enhance the overall dining experience and prevent customers from dealing with messy hands
Traditionally, food establishments would invest in a considerable quantity of plastic cutlery for a few pence a piece. However, recent regulations have prohibited the use of such materials.
Therefore, to align with legal requirements and diminish the environmental impact of your business, it’s essential to explore more eco-friendly alternatives.
Fortunately, Elpack offers a diverse range of sustainable options. Many of these alternatives are crafted from recycled wood, offering a cost-effective solution that ensures compliance with regulations regarding the use of single-use plastic and ensuring your customers can consume your food without any hassle.
Napkins
Don’t forget to provide napkins. Despite their unassuming appearance, these folded paper essentials can make a significant difference to your customers’ enjoyment.
After indulging in your delicious food, customers may find themselves contending with sticky, messy hands or lips. Fortunately, offering napkins can alleviate this inconvenience.
Our diverse range of napkins ensures that your customers can enjoy every bite of your desserts without absolute convenience. So don’t underestimate the impact of these simple additions – napkins are cost-effective and efficient at keeping your customers happy.
If you would like to find out more about how Elpack Packaging Solutions can assist your business, or discuss your bespoke packaging needs, get in touch with our expert team today! Call us on 01425 524021 or drop us an email at info@elpack.co.uk
