"With an ageing population, there might seem to be a clear need for more packaging formats that are easy to open. However, there are also safety concerns, particularly for products that might be found by children." (Packaging News, 8 February 2011)

Packaging News approached Payne and other key members from the industry for their thoughts and views.

The Big Question: Should more packs be made easy to open?

"Yes. Packaging is vital in promoting and maintaining brand image. We've all experienced difficult-to-open packs and seen how this affects our perception of the product so it must make sense to provide easy opening packaging to satisfy and retain the consumer. Easy opening of transit cases also ensures products get onto the shelf quickly and effectively without damage. The best easy-open systems are multi-faceted ones that offer additional benefits such as delivering messages to the consumer." Malcolm Waugh, managing director for tear tape, Payne


The online poll results were: Yes 86%, No 14%

To read more responses from the industry, visit Packaging News