If you’re in the business of selling physical products, then you know that product packaging is an essential part of the equation. Packaging plays a role in protecting your product and keeping it fresh. It’s also one of your best opportunities to market your product and brand to consumers. With that in mind, let’s look at some of the latest trends in product packaging.
Sustainability
One of the hottest trends in product packaging right now is sustainability. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the products they purchase, and they’re looking for brands that share their values. As a result, many brands are rethinking their packaging strategies with sustainability in mind.
There are several ways to make your packaging more sustainable. One is to use recycled materials whenever possible. Another is to use biodegradable materials that won’t end up in landfills. Opting for reusable containers is also another popular sustainable packaging solution. Reusable solutions have been highly in-demand. In fact, companies like americase.com have even started creating customized solutions for oxygen shipping where the customer can reuse the case. This is a great way to decrease your company’s carbon footprint while providing a convenient solution for your customers.
Personalization
Another trend we’re seeing is personalization. In a world where consumers are bombarded with marketing messages from every direction, personalization is a way to cut through the noise and connect with customers on a more personal level.
There are a few different ways to personalize your packaging. One uses custom printing techniques such as variable data printing or raised ink printing. This allows you to print other images or messages on each package, making each unique. You can also include special add-ons, such as custom ribbons or charms. Or, you can print customer names or initials on the package itself.
Interactive Packaging
Another emerging trend in product packaging is interactivity. Thanks to new printing techniques and materials, businesses can now create packaging that interacts with consumers in various ways—including sound, smell, sight, and touch. For example, some brands now use scented ink to create an immersive experience for consumers when they open their packages. Others are using Augmented Reality (AR) to give consumers a preview of what’s inside the package before they even open it. And still, others are using Braille or raised lettering to make their products accessible to a broader range of people.
A straightforward way to use interactive packaging is to include QR codes on your packaging that consumers can scan with their smartphones. This can take them to a landing page with more information about your product or brand or even enter them into a contest or sweepstakes.
Eco-friendly/biodegradable materials
As mentioned above, sustainability is a huge trend right now—and one-way businesses make their packaging more sustainable is by using eco-friendly or biodegradable materials such as bamboo, sugarcane pulp, cornstarch, potato starch, cellulose fiber from wood pulp, etcetera… Not only are these materials more environmentally friendly than traditional plastics, but they’re also often cheaper and more accessible to a source.
In addition, eco-friendly packaging often has a positive effect on product shelf life. For example, sugarcane pulp packaging can keep fruits and vegetables fresher for longer periods by absorbing moisture and ethylene gas.
Minimalism
Another big trend we’re seeing is minimalism—both in terms of product packaging design and branding in general. In today’s busy world, consumers are looking for brands that communicate their messages clearly and concisely without any superfluous fluff. As a result, we’re seeing a move towards simpler designs with clean lines and minimal graphics.
If you want to embrace the minimalist trend, there are a few things you can do. First, focus on functionality over form—your packaging should be designed first and foremost with function in mind. Second, streamline your design by eliminating unnecessary elements like excessive graphics or flourishes. And finally, make sure your packaging conveys your message clearly and concisely—less is more when it comes to minimalism.
Why do you need to know these trends?
As a business owner, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest packaging trends so you can make informed decisions about your own packaging strategy. By understanding the latest trends, you can ensure that your packaging is not only effective but also stylish and on-trend. What’s more, by keeping up with the latest trends, you can position your brand as a thought leader in the industry—which can help you attract new customers and grow your business.
The bottom line
These are just a few of the latest trends we’re seeing in product packaging. As you can see, sustainability, personalization, and minimalism are all big themes right now. So whatever direction you choose for your own packaging strategy, make sure it’s keeping these trends in mind!
