Why are Asian products so often wrapped in really *thick* plastics?
I live in Europe but sometimes shop at Asian supermarkets here. One of the things I notice with almost everything I buy there is that plastic packaging feels a lot thicker than that on European products. Is there a rational reason for this? Are plastics simply cheaper? Or do people worry more that products might spoil? Are these different types of plastics?
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Speculating: I think its a form of marketing. In the US and in Europe, people don't care too much about the thickness of the plastics but in Japan and some other asian countries, thick plastic wrapping is a sign of good quality.
This is it.
I've previously lived in Japan and there is always so much wrapping!
A large amount of packaging creates a perception of quality, as if a lot of care has been taken in the product, and culturally that sells well.
Kinda ironic as another thing you see everywhere in Japan is 'eco' this and 'green' that, they are very big on the perception of "saving the environment" and yet everything is covered in so much unnecessary plastic.
It's also a form of security. If its a small item a large plastic package makes it more difficult to shoplift, tamper, or use before purchasing. It also adds an additional level of protection during shipping.
I don't really think Japan has a worse issue than basically most other European and american companies. I'd be surprised if Japan has a higher shoplifting rate than the countries in the Americas to where individualized plastic wrapping is actually a deterrent. Maybe security theater i guess.
Ok, I guess that's the answer then. :/