The packaging design can enhance the value perception and help businesses differentiate their products from those of competitors. The purpose of packaging is not limited to just protecting items and products; packaging also connects with new consumers and builds loyalty among existing ones in a creative way.
Table of Contents
Packaging: an industry that will transform the brand experience
Futuristic packaging trends that will impact businesses
Impact of packaging on consumers
Packaging: an industry that will transform brand experience
According to Smithers, the global packaging market will reach $1.2 trillion by 2028, indicating that the future of packaging is full of potential. Furthermore, innovative materials like biodegradable plastics and interactive packaging will help brands create more sustainable distribution channels and convenient products.
As an entrepreneur, it’s indispensable to understand how packaging trends are evolving. From 3D decorations to transparent materials and beyond, packaging designs are constantly changing. In the years ahead, packaging trends will reflect the increasing emphasis on sustainability, use of technology, and engagement with the customer, to differentiate a product and make it stand out.
Futuristic Packaging Trends That Will Impact Businesses
Sustainable packaging
Companies are increasingly considering sustainable packaging as part of their business strategy and are making a big push for sustainable packaging innovations. There are many different ways to make packaging more environmentally friendly.
Recycled packaging
Packaging design with recycled materials has become a trend due to increased consumer awareness of the negative environmental impact of disposable packaging. Many companies have started to use recycled content in the packaging, such as corrugated cardboard, plastic, and paper. Some have even taken the next step and created packaging with 100% recycled content.
Biodegradable and compostable packaging
Paper and biodegradable materials such as bioplastics are quickly taking the place of plastics in the market. Bioplastics are manufactured from renewable organic materials such as starch and cellulose. Compostable materials are another alternative for eco-friendly packaging. This type of packaging originates from plant-based materials such as corn or sugarcane instead of petroleum-based plastics that are hard to decompose naturally.
Transparent packaging
Recently, the demand for transparency has increased as more consumers want to know the details and ingredients of the products they purchase. For this reason, many brands are adopting transparent packaging to build consumers’ trust and loyalty.
Whether it’s a transparent bag or box, the goal is to create a more engaging shopping experience by providing customers with visual access to the product they want to buy.
There are different types of transparent packaging, including transparent labels that allow customers to view the contents through the label and transparent overwraps which are clear plastic that lets consumers see what is inside without opening the package.
Personalized Packaging
Brands are placing more personalized touches on their packaging to deliver a positive experience for shoppers. In fact, according to Progressive Grocer’s research, 85% of U.S shoppers prefer personalized offers and are looking for more personalized retail experiences that are relevant to their shopping needs.
Creative storytelling is an innovative way to create personalized packages. It’s the art of telling a story through product packaging. Brands can use this method to convey a message, entertain, or inform. It’s also an appealing way to grab people’s attention and make them want to learn more about what’s inside the box.
3D decorated packaging
With the help of 3D packaging designs, businesses can easily capture customers’ imagination and lure them towards their products. These packages are made from paper, plastic, or cardboard and are covered with decorative materials like metallic foils and holographic films to create a three-dimensional effect.
Besides making the packaging attractive, 3D decorations can also provide information about the product. For example, some food companies have nutritional details printed directly onto the packaging using special inks that only become visible when viewed at certain angles.
Color layering packaging
The layering of colors, or the use of one color with a misted effect, creates a unique and innovative look. The idea behind color layering packaging is the use of different color layers to serve as a background for the textual information in the package. This style can work across many ranges, from food and health to beauty products.
Packages with natural colors emphasize the use of natural ingredients. People like seeing natural colors on the packaging because they feel like they are being healthy or bettering their health through their purchases. Many people also believe that going with more natural-looking packages is a way of being environmentally conscious and helping out the planet in a small way.
Interactive tech packaging
Packaging trends are starting to include advanced technology to enhance the shopping experience. Interactive packaging can help consumers decide if a product is right for them. For example, an interactive display can interact with smartphones, inviting shoppers to scan a QR code or enter an alphanumeric code. This technology can provide consumers with helpful tips about products.
RFID (radio frequency identification) tags and smart labels are prominent examples of interactive packaging. These labeling technologies can transmit information from a tag attached to a package to an electronic reader. The information contained in the data can include details about the product, such as its price or quantity, expiration dates, and other relevant information.
Impact of packaging on consumers
Packaging plays a crucial role in the marketing of products. It is the first impression a customer has of the brand, and hence business owners need to choose to package wisely. Myriads of new techniques and ideas are coming up in the packaging industry every day as it’s one of the essential aspects of every brand. It can be a powerful tool to build a perfect brand image and create a strong relationship with customers.
The use of innovative packaging solutions will increase and gradually replace traditional materials. These trends will influence the shopping experience in the coming years as packaging designs will elevate the shopping experience by incorporating high-end technology, interactive elements, and personalization, thus providing a win-win deal for both companies and consumers.
