(a) Give six reasons why manufacturers pre-package their products. (b) State any four disadvantages of pre-packaging.

(a) Six reasons why manufacturers pre-package their products

1. To protect the product: Packaging shields goods from damage, dirt, moisture and contamination during handling and transport.
2. To make handling and carriage easier: Pre-packaged goods in standard sizes are easier to load, stack, transport and store.
3. For easy identification and advertising: The package carries the brand name and colours, which help buyers recognise the product and act as silent advertising.
4. To provide information to the consumer: Labels give details such as ingredients, weight, price, directions for use and expiry date.
5. To ensure accurate measurement: Goods are pre-weighed or pre-measured into fixed quantities, saving time at the point of sale and reducing disputes.
6. To make the product attractive and boost sales: Attractive packaging appeals to customers and encourages them to buy.

(Preserving perishable goods and preventing pilfering are also acceptable.)

(b) Four disadvantages of pre-packaging

1. It increases the cost of the product: The cost of packaging materials and labour is added to the price the consumer pays.
2. The buyer cannot inspect the contents: Sealed packages prevent customers from examining the actual goods before buying.
3. It creates environmental (waste) problems: Discarded packaging materials litter the environment and cause pollution.
4. It can be used to deceive customers: A large or attractive package may contain a small quantity, misleading the buyer as to the true content.