Recently I noticed a trend toward oversize die-cut channels in carded merchandise packaging. Here I find the spacious channel well proportioned and appealing for this item. Normally my Engineering Department might recommend a channeled packaging approach for freshness-dated merchandise, allowing easier restocking at the rear of a hook rather than removing and re-threading an entire facing. But easier access to any product by customers is always a goal … be it access to tasty deli meats or comfy warm slippers.

As a hook-maker my knowledge and insights may be limited, so feel free to comment yourself. Are new wider channels and die-cuts in vogue in carded package design? Do package designers find it advantageous for customer access? Do Sales Associates take advantage of J-channels to correctly rear-stock perishables?  ***

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