Episode 81: Packaging, Shelf Life, and the Details That Make Products Successful, with Shaun Ashworth, Owner & President, Associated Labels and Packaging

We are on site in Coquitlam, BC with Shaun Ashworth, Co-Founder, Owner, and President of Associated Labels and Packaging. Shaun takes us behind the scenes of their packaging operations and shares why great packaging is about so much more than what we see on the shelf.Associated Labels and Packaging began in 1980 when Shaun’s father took a chance on a printing company, starting with letterpress printing before moving into flexographic labels through a surprising connection to Mary Kay address labels. Since then, the company has grown from four employees to a team of 180, expanding across flexo labels, digital printing, flexible packaging, pouches, lidding films, stick packs, and more.As Shaun explains, packaging may seem simple from the outside, but it plays a critical role in product success. The right package has to protect the product, support shelf life, run properly on equipment, communicate clearly to consumers, and hold up through distribution. For food and beverage brands, getting packaging right early can make all the difference.In this episode, we chat about:The story behind Associated Labels and PackagingThe difference between flexo, digital, and wide web printingWhy packaging should be designed around the product firstMoisture barriers, oxygen barriers, seal integrity, and shelf lifeHow packaging impacts co-packing, equipment, and downstream operationsWhy the cheapest packaging option is not always the lowest total costDesigning for the consumer, the shelf, and the real-world supply chainFive practical tips for CPG brands thinking about packagingSustainability, compostable films, plastic reduction, and packaging educationThe importance of culture, team, and long-term relationships in businessTune in to hear Shaun Ashworth’s insights on packaging innovation, product protection, sustainability, and why the smallest details can have a big impact on how food products move from production to shelf to consumer.Resources:Associated Labels and Packaging: https://www.associated-labels.comLearn more about IFS PACsecure: https://www.ifs-certification.com/en/food/ifs-pacsecureOne Step Closer: https://www.osc2.org