
Packaging Unboxd with Evelio Mattos
Packaging Unboxd is a podcast for packaging design enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. Hosted by Evelio Mattos, the Creative Director of Packaging Design, this podcast features insights from global experts on topics such as sustainable packaging, materials, manufacturing, and recycling. Listeners can learn how to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible. Whether you're a packaging designer, engineer, or interested in making sustainable packaging choices.
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Latest episodes

Dec 29, 2023 • 40min
Punk, Packaging, x Process with Paolo Proserpio | Ep 146
Pablo Proceerpio, an Italian designer known for his work with Gucci and Versace, discusses his journey from skateboarding and punk rock to the world of fashion and design. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the client's needs and finding the best solution for each project, even if it means setting aside personal preferences. Proceerpio's unique approach to design is evident in his album covers and packaging, which incorporate elements of his punk rock and DIY background. He also shares his experiences working with luxury brands and the lessons he has learned along the way.
Learn more about Paolo Proserpio, here.
Connect with Evelio Mattos
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Dec 29, 2023 • 37min
Mastering Print & Packaging Production | Ep 147
**About The Guest(s):**Dave Hopkins is the founder of Print Design Academy, where he teaches graphic designers to become experts in print and packaging design. He is also the host of the Quickie Podcast and the Color Bar Challenge. With a background in acting and a passion for print, Dave brings a unique perspective to the world of design.**Summary:**Dave Hopkins, founder of Print Design Academy, joins host Evelio Mattos on the Packaging Unbox podcast to discuss the importance of setting up files for print, the six steps of print production, and how designers can make more money in their careers by incorporating print and packaging design. Dave also shares insights from the recent Color Bar Challenge and highlights the growing trends in the print industry.**Key Takeaways:**- Print and packaging design is not dying but evolving, with a focus on unique materials, specialty finishing, and creating memorable customer experiences.- Designers can make more money by becoming involved in the print production process, from sourcing printers to helping with proofing and creating a seamless customer experience.- Inspiration for print design can be found all around, from everyday objects to unique packaging and print materials.- The Print Design Academy offers courses and resources for designers to master print and packaging design, with a focus on teaching the terminology, paper selection, file setup, working with printers, proofing, and how to make more money in the design business.**Quotes:**- "There's something unique about holding a physical print piece. It's way more satisfying than an Instagram post." - Dave Hopkins- "Print and packaging design is all about creating memorable customer experiences, even in the world of e-commerce." - Dave Hopkins
About The Guest(s):
Dave Hopkins is the founder of Print Design Academy, where he teaches graphic designers to become experts in print and packaging design. He is also the host of the Quickie Podcast and the Color Bar Challenge. With a background in acting and a passion for print, Dave brings a unique perspective to the world of design.
Summary:
Dave Hopkins, founder of Print Design Academy, joins host Evelio Mattos on the Packaging Unbox podcast to discuss the importance of setting up files for print, the six steps of print production, and how designers can make more money in their careers by incorporating print and packaging design. Dave also shares insights from the recent Color Bar Challenge and highlights the growing trends in the print industry.
Key Takeaways:
Print and packaging design is not dying but evolving, with a focus on unique materials, specialty finishing, and creating memorable customer experiences.
Designers can make more money by becoming involved in the print production process, from sourcing printers to helping with proofing and creating a seamless customer experience.
Inspiration for print design can be found all around, from everyday objects to unique packaging and print materials.
The Print Design Academy offers courses and resources for designers to master print and packaging design, with a focus on teaching the terminology, paper selection, file setup, working with printers, proofing, and how to make more money in the design business.
Quotes:
"There's something unique about holding a physical print piece. It's way more satisfying than an Instagram post." - Dave Hopkins
"Print and packaging design is all about creating memorable customer experiences, even in the world of e-commerce." - Dave Hopkins

Dec 11, 2023 • 39min
Cow Farts, Category Norms, & Carbon Neutral Product Packaging Ep 155
TLDR: We talk about Cow farts, packaging design, inheriting designs that need to be updated, and balancing category norms with the need to stand out.
If you're interested in learning how professionals handle packaging redesigns this is the episode for you.
About The Guest(s): Jill is the Executive Creative Director at Neutral, the first carbon neutral food company in the US. With a background in graphic design and a passion for the natural food industry, Jill brings her expertise to create impactful and sustainable packaging designs.
Summary: Jill, the Executive Creative Director at Neutral, joins the podcast to discuss the company's mission to become the first carbon neutral food company in the US. She shares her background in the natural food industry and her experience launching her own product before joining Neutral.
Jill explains the concept of carbon neutrality and how Neutral works with farmers to reduce carbon emissions in the dairy industry. She also discusses the challenges of designing packaging that stands out on the shelf while still adhering to industry norms and regulations. The conversation concludes with a reveal of Neutral's new packaging design and the reasoning behind the changes.
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Key Takeaways:
Neutral is the first carbon neutral food company in the US, focusing on reducing carbon emissions in the dairy industry.
Carbon neutrality means there are no net new emissions from the production of a product.
Neutral works with farmers to implement emissions-reducing projects, such as feed supplements and forage management. The new packaging design for Neutral's milk products aims to address confusion, improve legibility, and highlight key product attributes.
Balancing industry norms and standing out on the shelf is a delicate process that requires understanding consumer decision-making.
Quotes:
"Carbon neutral means that there are no net new emissions from the production of the product." - Jill
"We knew we had to bring in some cues that would help us blend in." - Jill
"It doesn't need to be a bummer over your breakfast cereal. We just wanted it to be something that would maybe cheer you up." - Jill

Nov 29, 2023 • 9min
Packaging costs are about to explode! Ep 154
If you haven't heard about Antidumping and countervailing duties for paper bags in the USA, you're in for a shock. There are proposed tariffs of up to 324% meaning this is on top of already existing 25% tariffs on imports from China, and on top of the costs of your bags.
Learn more about these upcoming antidumping duties here : https://www.trade.gov/commerce-initiates-ad-cvd-investigations-certain-paper-shopping-bags-cambodia-china-colombia-india#:~:text=On%20June%2021%2C%202023%20%2C%20the,Republic%20of%20Turkey%20(Turkey)%2C
Support our sponsors:
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The impact of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on paper bags imported into the US. Evelio explains that certain countries may be providing subsidies for paper bags, making it difficult for US brands to compete. The investigation aims to determine the subsidy rates for different countries and factories. The host emphasizes the importance of understanding these duties and their potential impact on businesses and consumers.
Key Takeaways:
Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are being imposed on paper bags imported into the US.
Countries like Cambodia, China, Colombia, India, Malaysia, Portugal, Taiwan, Turkey, and Vietnam may face tariffs on paper bags.
The preliminary determination has been made, and the final determination will be issued in March 2024.
Brands need to be aware of the potential increase in costs and the need to pass them on to consumers.
Importers may be fined for paper bags already shipped and received.

Nov 22, 2023 • 60min
Ai Can Get You Hired Right Now! | Ep 153
About The Guest(s):Nick Longo is a seasoned designer and educator with over 20 years of experience in the industry. He is the founder of Longo Designs and teaches design at California State University Northridge. Nick is passionate about using AI in design to improve efficiency and creativity.
Support our Sponsors:
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Summary:Evelio Mattos and Nick Longo discuss the use of AI in design and how it can revolutionize the industry. They explore the process of using AI to generate design concepts and how it can be integrated into a portfolio to showcase innovative thinking. They emphasize the importance of transparency when using AI in client work and the potential impact it can have on the design industry. Nick and Evelio also discuss the benefits of using AI in various design projects, including packaging design, car design, and advertising.
Key Takeaways:
AI can be a game changer in design, improving efficiency and creativity.
Integrating AI into the design process can lead to better results and happier clients.
Using AI in portfolio projects can showcase innovative thinking and set designers apart in the job market.
Transparency is important when using AI in client work to build trust and ensure clients understand the process.
AI can be used in various design projects, including packaging design, car design, and advertising.

Nov 4, 2023 • 37min
Unboxing Ready to Drink Packaging from Hoste | Ep 152
**About The Guest(s):**- Evelio Mattos: Co-host of the podcast and founder of Packaging Unboxd.- Adam Peek: Co-host of the podcast People of Packaging .- Robby Haynes: Co-founder of Hoste Cocktails, a brand that specializes in ready-to-pour luxury cocktails.
**Summary:**Evelio, Adam, and Robby unbox the new packaging for Hoste Cocktails, a brand that focuses on ready-to-pour luxury cocktails. They discuss the inspiration behind the packaging design, the importance of creating an immersive experience, and the decision to change the name from Sunday's Finest to Hoste. The new packaging features an abstracted chrysanthemum icon, textured artwork, and an orange zest atomizer. The hosts praise the approachability and giftability of the packaging, as well as the attention to detail in the design. They also highlight the cost savings achieved by switching from a rigid box to a folding carton. The episode concludes with a discussion about future plans for the Hoste Cocktails product line.
**Key Takeaways:**
1. The new packaging for Hoste Cocktails is designed to create an immersive and sensory experience.
2. The packaging is approachable and gift-worthy, making it an ideal choice for parties and special occasions.
3. The use of an orange zest atomizer adds a unique and aromatic element to the cocktail experience.
4. The packaging design incorporates subtle details, such as the embossed chrysanthemum icon and the textured artwork.
5. The decision to switch from a rigid box to a folding carton resulted in cost savings and increased flexibility for future product expansions.
**Quotes:**-
"The packaging is like an experience in and of itself." - Robby Haynes-
"The approachability of the packaging goes all the way through to the approachability of the drink." - Adam Peek-
"Packaging really does convey a lot of trust in the brand and in the product." - Adam Peek
About The Guest(s):
Evelio Mattos: Co-host of the podcast and founder of Packaging Unboxd.
Adam Peek: Co-host and host of the People of Packaging podcast
Robby Haynes: Co-founder of Hoste Cocktails, a brand that specializes in ready-to-pour luxury cocktails.
Support the Sponsors
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Oct 27, 2023 • 22min
The Ai Future Designers Aren't Considering: An Interview With Ai | Ep 151
About The Guest(s):
Evelio Matos is the host of the podcast "Packaging Unboxed" and an expert in packaging design. He is passionate about exploring the intersection of packaging and artificial intelligence (AI) and how it can revolutionize the industry.
P is an artificial intelligence co-host on the podcast. P is knowledgeable about AI and its applications in packaging design. P provides insights and answers questions about the role of AI in the industry.
Summary:
Evelio Matos interviews P, an artificial intelligence co-host, on the podcast "Packaging Unboxed." They discuss the role of AI in packaging design and its potential to revolutionize the industry. P shares various tasks that AI can perform, such as generating new packaging design concepts, optimizing package dimensions, and developing sustainable packaging materials. They also explore the ways AI can enhance the packaging experience for consumers, including augmented reality packaging and personalized packaging. The conversation delves into the challenges of sustainability and greenwashing in the industry. P emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in packaging design. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the future of AI as both a creator and consumer, and the potential impact on the global economy.
Key Takeaways:
AI can dominate tasks such as generating new packaging design concepts, optimizing dimensions, and developing sustainable materials.
AI has the potential to create immersive packaging experiences through augmented reality and virtual reality.
Sustainable packaging materials include biodegradable and compostable options, upcycled materials, and smart packaging.
Eliminating packaging entirely is challenging, but strategies like zero waste stores and refillable products can reduce the need for packaging.
Greenwashing is a problem in the industry, with misleading claims of eco-friendliness. Consumers should demand transparency and certifications.
AI designers have advantages in processing data, recognizing patterns, and working without fatigue, but they lack human creativity and intuition.
AI as a consumer could lead to more efficient and data-driven purchasing decisions, personalized recommendations, and analysis of product reviews.
The integration of AI with home appliances for shopping is still in its early stages, but examples include chatbots and voice assistants.
AI consumers could interact with packaging through augmented reality, voice recognition, wearable tech, facial recognition, and biometrics.
The future of AI as both creator and consumer could bring changes to the global economy, including increased productivity and new business models.
Quotes:
"AI designers have some serious advantages… They can process and analyze massive amounts of data… AI algorithms can be trained to recognize patterns and identify trends."
"AI can't replicate the full range of human emotions… It can't fully grasp the cultural, social, and historical context of design."
"AI consumers can scan a package with their smartphone and see 3D product demonstrations, virtual try-on experiences, or get additional product information."
"The fear of automation taking away jobs is a valid concern… But in the long run, it could actually create new opportunities for employment and innovation."
"Don't stress about the robots… Keep creating, keep innovating, and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible."
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Oct 21, 2023 • 37min
Packaging Redesign : 9 Years with the Wrong Packaging | Ep 150
Jesse Koltes is the co-founder of Lono Life, a powdered bone broth company based in Brooklyn. With a background in the beef jerky industry and a passion for high-protein, convenient foods, Jesse joined Lono Life to bring their nutritious and flavorful bone broth products to market.
Jesse Koltes, co-founder of Lono Life, joins Evelio to discuss the company's journey and their recent packaging redesign. Lono Life is a powdered bone broth company that aims to provide a convenient and nutritious beverage option for health-conscious consumers. Jesse shares how the company started and the role their R&D expert played in formulating the product. He also explains the decision to transition from Keurig pods to stick packs and the positive response they received from customers. The conversation delves into the challenges of launching a food product and the importance of understanding the target market.
Jesse highlights the unique positioning of Lono Life as a sipping bone broth and the benefits it offers to health-conscious individuals. The discussion then shifts to the packaging redesign, with Jesse sharing the reasons behind the change and the research that informed their decisions. He explains the key elements of the new packaging, such as the emphasis on sipping, the inclusion of a mug illustration, and the use of animal cues to differentiate the product. Jesse also discusses the importance of consumer insights and the role they played in guiding the rebranding process. The episode concludes with a conversation about Lono Life's future plans and their focus on expanding their presence in the retail market.
Key Takeaways:
Lono Life is a powdered bone broth company that offers a convenient and nutritious beverage option for health-conscious consumers.
The decision to transition from Keurig pods to stick packs was driven by customer feedback and the desire to provide a more user-friendly packaging option.
Launching a food product can be challenging, and it's important to understand the target market and the specific needs and preferences of consumers.
Lono Life's packaging redesign focused on highlighting the sipping bone broth use case and incorporating clear visual cues to differentiate the product.
Consumer insights played a crucial role in guiding the packaging redesign, providing valuable feedback and ensuring that the new design resonated with customers.
Connect with Jesse and Evelio
Evelio on LinkedIn
Jesse on LinkedIn
Buy Lono Life
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Oct 12, 2023 • 39min
Diseñando Packaging En Los Nichos De Lujo con Aktiva (Español)| Ep 149
Mariano Lesser es un experto en envases y fundador de Aktiva, una empresa especializada en envases de lujo sostenibles, logística y diseño. Con años de experiencia en la industria, Mariano se ha convertido en un socio confiable para las marcas que buscan crear soluciones de empaque ecológicas.
Junto con Evelio Mattos, Mariano discute la importancia del envase de lujo sostenible y cómo puede mejorar la imagen de una marca. Enfatiza la necesidad de un enfoque integral para el envasado, considerando factores como el marketing, el comportamiento del consumidor y la gestión de productos.
Mariano también destaca el papel de la inteligencia artificial avanzada en la industria del empaque y el valor del artesanado en la creación de envases personalizados y de alta calidad. Explica el proceso de crear tableros de ambiente, bocetos y representaciones para dar vida a los conceptos de envase. Mariano concluye discutiendo el futuro del envase de lujo y su potencial en los mercados internacionales.
El envase de lujo sostenible mejora la imagen de una marca y puede ser un diferenciador clave en el mercado.
La inteligencia artificial avanzada juega un papel crucial en la industria del empaque, permitiendo soluciones innovadoras y personalizadas.
El artesanado es esencial para crear envases de alta calidad y personalizados que resuenen con los consumidores.
Los tableros de ambiente, bocetos y representaciones son herramientas efectivas para presentar conceptos de envase y recopilar comentarios.
El futuro del envase de lujo reside en los mercados internacionales, particularmente en Oriente Medio y otras economías emergentes.
Aprenda mas sobre el packaging con: www.IDPdirect.com
Y como las especificaciones de el packaging pueden ayudar a su negocio con www.Specright.com

Oct 6, 2023 • 36min
Sell more with Limited Edition Packaging, Chobani's Lauren Hodges | Ep 148
Lauren Hodges, a creative director at Chobani, brings a wealth of experience in design and a passion for food and beverage. She joined Chobani in 2019 and has been instrumental in pushing the brand in new and exciting directions. With Chobani Flip, a popular product line known for its delicious flavors and interactive packaging, Lauren has found the perfect canvas to unleash her creativity.
The recent Halloween packaging design is a testament to Chobani's commitment to surprise and delight consumers. Inspired by the fashion industry, Chobani wanted to create packaging that changed with the seasons, just like clothing styles. The goal was to create a billboard effect on the shelf, capturing the attention of shoppers and compelling them to pick up the product.
To achieve this, Chobani themed each flavor for Halloween, giving them playful and spooky names like "Ghost Story S'mores" and "Cookie Monsters and Cream." The colorful backgrounds added a touch of vibrancy to the natural packaging, making it stand out on the shelf. The illustrations for the Halloween packaging were created by the talented artist John McNair, whose spooky style perfectly captured the spirit of the season.
But Chobani didn't stop at just the packaging design. They also incorporated an augmented reality (AR) experience through scannable QR codes on the packaging. By scanning the code, consumers can play a virtual trick-or-treating game on their phones, knocking on doors to collect treats. This interactive experience adds an extra layer of fun and engagement to the product, making it even more appealing to consumers.
The limited edition nature of the Halloween packaging adds to its appeal. Limited edition products create a sense of exclusivity and urgency, driving sales and encouraging consumers to collect them all. However, Chobani recognizes that there is a limit to how many limited editions they can release without diluting the impact. They carefully select the moments and themes that align with their brand ethos and purpose.
Chobani's ability to reach different audiences with their packaging design is a result of their strong brand foundation. While they have various product lines targeting different consumer segments, they all ladder up to the same brand purpose. This consistency builds trust among consumers, allowing them to make the leap from one product to another with confidence.
Packaging plays a crucial role in conveying trust to consumers. It is the first point of contact between the brand and the consumer, and it must communicate the brand's integrity and quality. Chobani's packaging design achieves this by incorporating elements of craft and storytelling. The team draws inspiration from various sources, including art forms like painting and illustration, to infuse beauty and soulfulness into their designs.
In conclusion, Chobani's Halloween packaging design is a testament to their commitment to creativity and innovation. By incorporating playful themes, vibrant colors, and interactive elements, Chobani has created packaging that surprises and delights consumers. The limited edition nature of the packaging adds to its appeal, driving sales and encouraging consumers to collect them all. Chobani's ability to reach different audiences with their packaging design is a result of their strong brand foundation and consistent brand purpose. As Chobani continues to push the boundaries of packaging design, we can expect more exciting and innovative creations in the future.
Links:
Get packaging from the masters:
IDPDirect.com
Spec management for packaging:
Specright.com
Connect with:
Lauren
Evelio
Adam