There are several creative and customizable solutions to do storytelling packaging design. The tools to be used are mainly those on which the graphics are based: texts, images, colours, shapes, illustrations, etc. A cartoon, rather than a series of shots showing people at work or historical pictures about the brand, is just one of the many ideas from which to draw inspiration.
The tools of narration can be divided into two broad categories: visual and verbal. Not all can be expressed through language. Indeed often communication is more effective if you use a type of visual language. Images, shapes and colours can be highly effective and capture attention, but some stories still need to be told through words, too, because a simple idea is not enough. In both cases, however, it is good to carefully study the choice of these elements, be they visual or verbal.
Even the materials and the particular finishes can communicate. Whether we are talking about labels or boxes, the choice of fabric can represent specific values of the brand; for example, the use of a natural rather than coated paper will suggest a certain simplicity and the brand's attention to concepts such as sustainability. The use of a gold foil combined with classic Serif or calligraphic fonts will immediately reflect tradition more, rather than the use of a glossy lamination with Sans Serif characters.
Another piece of advice we would like to give you is to make the most of the various parts of the box or label and find the optimal position for all the elements you decide to use. Whether we are talking about a title or a box, the front should be designed to insert the brand logo accompanied by captivating graphics with shapes or colours to capture the customer's attention. At the same time, the back for more articulated, informative or narrative texts that support the visual, with which the narration can be deepened.