BLOG: How has e-commerce packaging changed over the past five years?
13-06-2025
Over the past four weeks, I have been doing an internship at Argos Packaging. During this taster internship, I worked in the marketing department, where I learned a lot. Not only about the work itself, but also about how I can use the things I learn at school in the real business world. That was very valuable to me, because now I understand better why I am doing all this at school.
In addition to my internship and school assignment, I also had the opportunity to write a blog about a topic that I find interesting and that has a connection with Argos. I chose the topic of e-commerce packaging because I have seen and learned a lot about it in recent weeks and it is an important product group for Argos.
More and more packages = more and more packaging
In recent years, the number of online orders has increased dramatically. People order all kinds of things, and of course, everything has to be properly packaged. In the past, plastic and cardboard packaging were mainly used, but nowadays, much more thought is given to how this can be done in a smarter and more sustainable way.
For example, companies are looking for ways to use less material or alternatives such as recycled cardboard. This is important because with so many packages, the environment must also be taken into account. I have seen that Argos is really working on this; they are doing their best to develop packaging that is better for the environment.
What has changed?
During my internship, I studied various online stores and looked at how they organize their packaging. I noticed that a lot has changed. When I look at what I receive when I order something, I also see a difference. In the past, items were often wrapped in plastic, but now they usually come in cardboard boxes. These are often better suited to the size of the product, so less packaging material is wasted. Reusable packaging is also being used more and more often.Durability and appearance
Something else I noticed: more and more young people think it's important for packaging to be sustainable. That's something companies are really paying attention to. But appearance matters too: attractive packaging makes unpacking even more fun.
For me personally, sustainability is not that important. I don't always pay attention to it. What I find most important is that my package arrives intact and in good condition. So the packaging must be sturdy and provide good protection during shipping.
Still, I see that sustainability is important to many young people. I understand that.
I found my internship at Argos to be a great learning experience and I am glad I had this opportunity. I now know a lot more about marketing, packaging, and how everything works in a company!
Rosa van den Bos – Commercial Economics Student (Global Marketing & Sales)
