Top 10 packaging trends to watch in 2024

Sustainability in packaging
In 2024, we can anticipate a growing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions, encompassing biodegradable and recyclable materials. The shift towards sustainability is driven by several factors, including consumer demand, regulatory pressure, and the business benefits associated with sustainability, such as cost reduction, enhanced efficiency, and bolstered brand reputation. A range of sustainable packaging options is available, including biodegradable materials such as paper, cardboard, and cornstarch, as well as recyclable materials like glass, metal, and plastic, and reusable materials like metal water bottles and canvas bags.

Smart packaging
Smart packaging is a trend leveraging technology to provide consumers with supplementary information about products, such as freshness, origin, or nutritional details. This empowers consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions. Smart packaging can be applied in various ways, such as tracking food freshness through sensors measuring temperature and humidity, offering product origin information via QR codes, or providing nutritional data through technology-driven means.

Personalised packaging
Personalised packaging is on the rise as businesses seek to establish deeper connections with their customers. It enables the creation of unique and personalised experiences for each customer, fostering brand loyalty. Personalised packaging can include personal touches like the customer's name, custom messages for example, thank you notes, birthday wishes, or unique designs tailored to individual preferences.

On-demand packaging
Driven by the growth of eCommerce, on-demand packaging is a trend that allows businesses to print and package products as needed, thereby reducing waste. As eCommerce sales were projected to reach USD 4.9-trillion in 2023, on-demand packaging addresses the environmental concerns associated with excessive packaging waste generated in this sector.

3D printing in packaging
The development of 3D printing technology is revolutionising packaging by enabling the creation of custom packaging perfectly suited to the product it contains. This technology facilitates the design of custom containers, complex shapes, and innovative packaging solutions that were once challenging to achieve through traditional manufacturing methods.

Augmented reality (AR) in packaging
AR technology is reshaping packaging by creating interactive experiences that engage consumers and provide them with valuable information about products. AR can offer information about ingredients, usage instructions, and even immersive virtual experiences, allowing consumers to visualise products in their real-world environments.

Virtual reality (VR) in packaging
VR technology is making an impact by immersing consumers in virtual experiences that allow them to explore and experience products before making a purchase. This technology enhances engagement, provides insight into product histories, and ultimately helps boost sales.

Blockchain for provenance and sustainability
Blockchain, a secure and transparent technology, is gaining traction in the packaging industry to trace the origin of products, ensuring authenticity and sustainability. It provides a tamper-proof record of a product’s journey throughout the supply chain and helps businesses make more sustainable choices.

Artificial intelligence (AI) in packaging
AI is a versatile tool that automates various packaging tasks, including product defect inspection, packaging design optimisation, and demand prediction. AI enhances quality control, cost-efficiency, and sustainability in packaging operations.

Internet of Things (IoT) in packaging
IoT-enabled packaging is transforming the industry by tracking product locations, monitoring product conditions, and providing real-time data to businesses. This technology optimises supply chain efficiency, aids in condition monitoring, and informs data-driven decision-making.

These represent just a selection of the top trends and innovations in the packaging industry to anticipate in 2024. As the packaging industry evolves continually, it promises exciting developments in the year ahead.