Packaging That Performs: How to Design for Retail, Farmers Markets, and Online Sales

Farmers markets are all about connection. You’re there in person, sharing your story. Your packaging doesn’t have to shout—it just needs to support the conversation.

Packaging Design Tip:

Keep it simple. Clean, clear designs that highlight your product and values.

Leave room for labels. If you choose a custom printed bag, you can make a single design work for multiple SKUs by leaving room for a label. We also have high-quality blank bags available for those with ultimate flexibility needs.

Focus on feel. Tactile finishes, recyclable materials, and resealable closures make a great first impression.

Common Mistake to Avoid:

Overinvesting in custom printing too early. Start with blank packaging and labels to test your lineup, then move on to fully custom once your customer base grows.

Need a little design help? Try the Roastar Design Lab™ to build your next label fast.

Grocery aisles are crowded, and shoppers make decisions in seconds. Your packaging has to stand out and communicate everything at a glance.

Packaging Design Tip:

Go bold. Bright colors, high-contrast graphics, and easy-to-read fonts can help your bag stand out. Being different is typically better than following trends and most importantly, make sure your visuals support your brand values.

Include UPCs and nutritional info. Many retailers require this.

Add your brand story. You’re not there to do the talking, so let your packaging promote you. Bonus points if you can accomplish this visually with few or no words. You're selling coffee not running a book club. Then again, maybe you're doing both.

Consistency counts. If you have multiple SKUs, keep branding cohesive and variations clear.  This helps loyal customers find new or favorite SKUs quickly.

Common Mistake to Avoid:

Designing packaging without thinking about shelf placement. Top, middle, and bottom shelves all affect visibility. Mock up your design in-store if you can—or use shelf-testing tools to preview.

Want to trial some bags? Order a sample pack (shipping is free!) to get a feel for our materials and finishes.

Boutique cafés love thoughtful, aesthetic packaging. Your bag often lives behind the counter or on a curated retail display—so it’s part of the overall vibe. In other words, you probably don't want flaming skulls on your package if your cafe is set up for a calming modern feel. Then again, maybe you do.

Packaging Design Tip:

• Reflect your brand personality. Minimal, grunge, vintage, luxe—whatever fits your story.

• Use specialty finishes wisely. Matte, soft-touch, or metallic effects can elevate without overpowering.

• Think small. Compact 8–12 oz bags often fit better on limited shelf space.

Common Mistake to Avoid:

Overcomplicating your design. If your bag’s tricky to fill or seal, production slows down. Keep it functional as well as beautiful. Want smoother filling? Try a forming shoe for hassle-free filling.

When customers shop online, they can’t touch your bag—but once it arrives, they can photograph it, post it on social media, and reorder. A great digital experience starts with smart physical design. Weight also plays a critical part in how expensive it is to ship. It's a good idea to keep this in mind when selecting your packaging size.

Packaging Design Tip:

Prioritize clarity. Product names, roast levels, and origin info should be easy to find.

Design for unboxing. Think about how your packaging looks as it's pulled from the shipping box. Make sure that your chosen packaging will ship well.

Include QR codes or URLs. Drive customers to learn more, subscribe, or reorder.

Common Mistake to Avoid:

Ignoring shipping stress. Bags travel long distances, so make sure they can handle the pressure. Flat Bottom Bags and high-barrier materials help protect product freshness and shape.

Need packaging that holds up in transit? We’ve got single or multi-bag shipping cartons made to fit your bags perfectly.

Wherever your product lands—a bustling grocery shelf, a boutique café, or your customer’s front porch—your packaging is the first handshake with your brand. When you design with the destination in mind, you’ll:

• Make stronger first impressions

• Avoid costly do-overs

• Build a brand that feels intentional and professional

Not sure where to start? Order a sample pack, get quick online quote, get professional design help, and talk to your supplier (hey, that’s us) with your questions. We’ll help you choose the right material, size, and closure.