When Flexible Packaging Feels Right: Why Ergonomics Matter

As reclosable flexible packaging continues to grow for a wide variety of consumer-packaged goods (CPG), there is great value in providing user-friendly packaging to consumers. By prioritizing the user experience, CPG brands can strengthen brand loyalty, help make their products more accessible, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusive design to create deeper, more meaningful connections with consumers.

How the consumer interacts with a package can make or break their experience. Reclosable features like zippers and sliders provide more than just convenience—they contribute to product protection, which can extend longevity and reduce waste. Closures can also aid package branding after purchase, since consumers are less likely to repackage a product with the right reclosable feature. This repeated exposure creates a subtle but powerful marketing opportunity that reinforces trust and increases repurchase likelihood.

With a wide variety of closures on the market, product managers will want to identify one that is right for their product and target consumer. While properly designed closures convert efficiently in general pouch making processes, there are also reclosable solutions developed for a greater emphasis on the consumer experience.    

Why Sliders Are Consumer-Preferred for Reclosable Pouch Packaging

Today’s sliders available for commercial packaging represent a new generation of performance, functionality, and consumer appeal. They offer a simple, intuitive way to open and reclose flexible pouches with visual context making them an ideal solution for brands looking to enhance ease of use while protecting product freshness. Sliders also add a premium feel that helps brands stand out on the shelf and leave a lasting impression with shoppers.

As consumer expectations for convenience continue to be a priority, slider technology has evolved to keep pace. If your brand has tried sliders in the past and walked away due to cost or performance, it’s worth taking another look—today’s solutions have advanced significantly. And if you’re already using a slider for your product’s packaging, it’s worth exploring the latest options on the market so your brand can continue to meet evolving preferences while reinforcing your product’s value.

Enter the Fresh-Lock® Ergo Ultra Slider—a new closure designed to feel as good as it functions. Its contoured, easy-grip shape delivers a smooth, reliable open-and-close experience, giving consumers the confidence that their product will stay fresh and protected, every time.  

Reclosable Packaging that Works for More Hands

The Ergo Ultra slider was designed for effortless use, making it accessible for many types of consumers. Many closures require firm grip or precise hand movements, creating challenges for older adults, people with arthritis, or those with limited hand mobility. By addressing these barriers, the Ergo Ultra slider helps make everyday interactions easier for more consumers. With its contoured grip and smooth sliding action, Ergo Ultra makes opening and closing painless—without the need for excessive force or complicated movements. Designed for a number of small to large pouch applications, it delivers a secure hold and dependable functionality for a wide range of consumers.

By choosing this slider system, your product packaging becomes more inclusive, helping you reach a broader market by meeting the needs of consumers who might struggle with traditional closures. This combination of thoughtful design and consumer-friendly functionality can set your brand apart while making everyday use easier for everyone.    

Merging Sustainable Packaging Materials with Accessible Design

Even as CPG brands increasingly prioritize inclusivity in packaging design, sustainability remains a central focus. The challenge is creating solutions that will meet diverse user needs and environmental goals simultaneously. Fresh-Lock® next generation sliders strike the balance by integrating ergonomic features that add real value to flexible packaging while maintaining strong sustainability credentials.

Made from recyclable polyethylene, Ergo Ultra supports mono-material pouch solutions and qualifies as a component for the How2Recycle Store Drop of Program. Its innovative, reduced scale design uses less material, which enhances its sustainability benefits and results in a sleek, low-profile format.  

Build a Better Flexible Packaging Experience for Consumers

The right closure can transform the consumer experience by delivering intuitive use, improved accessibility, and sustainable advantages—all wrapped in premium shelf appeal. By choosing the Fresh-Lock® Ergo Ultra slider, your brand sends a clear message: you care about usability and waste reduction, without sacrificing style or performance.

When you’re ready to elevate your packaging and put the consumer experience front and center, our team of experts is here to help. Contact the Fresh-Lock team today and discover how we can enhance the packaging experience for your market.