A Guide to Blister Packs: Secure, Visible, and Effective Retail Packaging
Blister packs, also commonly referred to as blister packaging or simply blisters, provide a reliable solution for packaging small consumer goods. These packages feature pre-formed plastic cavities or bubbles, which are sealed to a backing card, creating a highly secure and display-friendly unit ideal for hanging on retail merchandising walls.
Core Components of a Blister Pack
Every blister pack is built from a few essential elements:
This is the custom-formed, transparent plastic shell that holds the product. The design is engineered from a product sample or technical drawing to create a perfect fit. The cavity can be manufactured from various plastic materials, such as PVC or PET, chosen for their clarity and protective qualities.
Typically made of paperboard, this component sits behind the plastic bubble. It serves as the primary canvas for branding, product information, and graphics that capture a shopper's attention at the point of sale.
Since these packages are designed for wall displays, most include an integrated hanging feature. To prevent tearing, the hang hole is often cleverly incorporated into the more durable plastic blister itself, rather than the paperboard, ensuring the package remains secure on the peg.
Key Advantages of Choosing Blister Packaging
- Superior Product Visibility:
The clear plastic bubble allows customers to inspect the product from all angles, building confidence and facilitating a purchasing decision.
By sealing the product between the plastic and the card, blister packs act as a strong theft deterrent. They are inherently tamper-evident, discouraging pilferage in-store.
Blister packs are a budget-friendly packaging option. The raw materials are inexpensive, and the sealing process can be easily automated with widely available equipment, keeping production costs low.
The paperboard backing offers significant real estate for vibrant branding, promotional messages, and essential details, helping products stand out in a competitive retail environment.
Common Varieties of Blister Packaging
Several types of blister packs are available to meet different needs and budgets, including:
- Face Seal Blisters
- Full-Face Seal Blisters
- Trap Blisters
- Slide Blisters
Each style offers unique benefits, from entry-level options to premium, high-security solutions, allowing brands to select the perfect format for their product.