Packaging Design Trends in 2023
The pandemic has really changed the definition of what consumers want. 2022 has brought a wave of change with it. With emerging trends and practices that make life simpler yet exciting, technology has managed to woo audiences and helped brands gain numbers. New packaging trends have taken the market by storm. They not only make the product look more desirable, but are also functional for the consumers. Let’s discuss a few of these trends:
1. Sustainable Packaging
With rampant changes in the climate and the environment, it is becoming increasingly important for companies to realize their responsibility towards safeguarding the environment. Consumers are now willing to make choices based on the brand's consciousness towards the environment. This is where sustainable packaging comes into play. Sustainable packaging is using sustainable materials that have less impact on the planet, for packaging. This results in lowering the plastic content of the plant and creating a positive impact for future generations. Sustainable packaging may include materials like cardboard, inks, reusable materials, paper, etc. for packaging. These materials are recyclable. Some brands that have rolled out products using sustainable packaging are Zara, Puma, Calvin Klein, among others.
2. Personalization
Who doesn’t like packaging designed exclusively for them? Well, everyone does! Personalized packaging creates a personal connection between the consumer and the brand. In this generation where people have the shortest attention span, personalized packaging grabs the attention of the youngsters effectively. One classic example of personalized packaging is Coca-Cola’s Share a Coke campaign. The company printed individual names on coke cans, making the teens and young adults connect with the brand. The brand saw a 2.5% increase in sales following this campaign. Along similar lines, Nutella too offers personalized jars. These are available in partner stores and online and make for the perfect gift for a loved one.
3. Internet of packaging
Technology has brought about disruptive changes in this world. Things have become easier, less complicated, and much more approachable. IoT has opened up new avenues for brands to communicate with their consumers. With technologies such as QR codes, smart labels, RFID, etc., brands can provide consumers with more information, security and details about the product. Smart packaging also helps in tracking the freshness and temperature of the food. It offers the consumer a value-added experience with better visuals, detailed infographics, video tutorials, history of the product, etc. According to Grand View Research, smart packaging revenues are expected to reach $26.7 billion by 2024, compared to $10.8 billion in 2015.
4. 3D printing
Packaging for a product has to be just right. It should convey what the product stands for and appeal to the masses. Deciding on the packaging design is a time and money consuming process. 3D printing solves the problem here. 3D printing packaging brings a digital design to life. It gives the designers the freedom to experiment and deliver top-notch results. It allows designers to create different prototypes for their product line. Not only this, 3D printing also generates zero plastic waste. It gives the scope for assessing and evaluating a design before its actual production.
5. Active packaging
Food wastage is a global problem that needs to be addressed. Active packaging plays a crucial role in solving this problem. Active packaging adopts technology that releases and absorbs chemical compounds to keep the food fresh and increase its shelf life. It delays the degradative reactions of food because of microbial growth, moisture loss, and several other reasons. It helps in keeping the original smell, taste and color of the food intact. Active packaging is mainly used for meat, dairy products and fresh produce.
