10 packaging facts you didn’t know

The usefulness, versatility and adaptability of packaging have made it a process present all over the world. This widespread popularity has also led to the development of many anecdotes and curious facts about packaging. We’ve gathered some of them in this article, and we’d love for you to tell us, at the end of your reading, which ones you already knew and which surprised you. Shall we begin?

1. 26 December: World Packaging Day

Believe it or not, there is a World Packaging Day — also known as Boxing Day. Its origin is linked to the boxes of donations that the nobility gave to their servants after Christmas, when they enjoyed their day off.

Boxing Day represented a reward for their work during the holiday season, and the boxes often contained money, food and/or clothing.

2. International Bubble Wrap Day

Who hasn’t enjoyed the relaxing pleasure of popping bubble wrap?

On the last Monday of January, the importance of bubble wrap is celebrated — not only for its undeniable usefulness in protecting objects during transport and storage, but also for the simple joy of popping those air bubbles. Without a doubt, an infallible way to combat stress and boredom.

3. There’s a Duct Tape Festival in Ohio

In 2005, something inspired the people of Ohio to reflect on the endless uses of duct tape. Since then, a festival dedicated to this material has been held, featuring all kinds of activities that showcase its versatility — from sculpture creation to fashion shows.

4. In Finland, the government gives pregnant women a cardboard box

This unique tradition dates back to the 1930s, when Finland faced high infant mortality rates. Concerned by this situation, the Finnish government decided to send every expectant mother a cardboard box filled with baby care products. The box itself was often used as a crib during the baby’s first months. This tradition continues to this day.

5. The first brand to use packaging as a marketing tool

It’s the 1950s. Kellogg’s introduces a cereal box unlike any other: it featured a carefully designed and eye-catching look, which led to a remarkable increase in sales.

This small innovation marked a turning point in history, paving the way for the standardisation of the typical breakfast cereal box format we know today.

6. The Chupa Chups packaging designed by someone you’d never guess

We’re talking about the Spanish brand that became famous for a brilliantly simple invention: putting a stick in a lollipop. The idea came from Enric Bernat in 1958, but Chupa Chups didn’t stop there. To strengthen its brand positioning, in 1969 the company commissioned the design of its packaging from none other than the master of surrealism: Salvador Dalí.

7. The cardboard box: one of the world’s most used toys

In 2005, the National Toy Hall of Fame in New York included the cardboard box among its list of most-used toys due to its versatility. Despite technological advances, children often gravitate towards the simplest objects. A cardboard box can be a shelter, a costume, a craft material… and if we think about it, children aren’t the only ones who appreciate its simplicity — which brings us to the next point:

8. Why do cats love cardboard boxes?

From a feline’s perspective, a cardboard box is a comfortable place to sleep, a perfect hiding spot that provides a sense of security, and a shelter that acts as thermal insulation, helping them maintain their body temperature…