In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ying Lu, founder of Blue Lake Packaging and former global operations leader at Apple. With a rich background in industrial engineering and a passion for sustainable design, Ying brings a practical, design-forward perspective to a topic many companies overlook: packaging. But this isn’t just about logos and pretty boxes—this conversation dives into how packaging can be a powerful lever for reducing costs, improving sustainability, and navigating complex tariff structures.

Ying shares the three guiding principles her team uses to help clients streamline packaging: reducing unnecessary materials, designing packaging as a product itself, and simplifying manufacturing processes. Along the way, she gives real-world examples—from replacing instruction booklets with QR codes to optimizing shipping volumes and reducing tariffs by rethinking where and how packaging is applied. She also underscores how small changes in design can yield big savings, both financially and environmentally.

Kim and Ying go beyond theory to discuss how companies can make meaningful strides in sustainability without compromising brand identity or functionality. They break down what recyclable really means in practice, how to tailor packaging messaging to resonate with customers, and why visiting a recycling facility might just change the way you approach your next product launch. Whether you're a trade professional, supply chain leader, or brand manager, this episode will get you thinking outside the box—literally.

Key Takeaways:

● The three core principles of cost-saving packaging design

● How smart packaging choices can reduce landed costs and tariffs

● What companies get wrong about sustainability—and how to fix it

Tune in to learn how packaging can be more than just a container—it can be a competitive advantage.

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