If you work in the packaging industry, or you buy plastic bags, paper bags, boxes or any other kind of packaging for your business, it’s always worth keeping an eye out for the latest trends and innovations.
Every year, the pace of innovation across the industry quickens and 2014 is no different. So, here are our top five packaging trends to look out for over the next 12 months, and the ones we think we’ll definitely see in general use before the year is out.
Easy to use packaging
Convenience is king in the retail business which is why we’ll soon see a huge influx of packaging that’s not only easy to open, but which is just as easy to close and seal again too. Expect products targeted at both over 65’s and anyone else on the go all day to make use of this packaging trend first.
Higher quality packaging
Retailers and manufacturers are fast becoming wise to the fact that consumers are willing to pay a little extra for the same products if they’re packaged a little nicer. We should see this thought materialising with a glut of products that make the most of premium materials and manufacturing techniques in their packaging.
Energy efficient/environmentally friendly packaging
On the flipside, rising energy costs are also driving many manufacturers to lower their own costs too. Consumers in a number of markets are also turned on by efficient manufacturing processes and will buy a product if they believe it also helps them do their bit for the environment. Expect to see a marked shift to small-footprint, environmentally friendly packaging in some sectors.
Intelligent, interactive packaging
RFID, QR codes and even materials with built in circuitry will continue to build a market share in the packaging industry throughout 2014. Think food packaging that alerts you to its own use-by date and interactive point of sale packaging, and you’ll be on the right lines.
Packaging and products that promote health
2014 will see a huge shift in consumer attitudes towards fitness and health, and the packaging industry is set to respond to that in a huge way. We’ll see innovative drinks bottles, designs and colours that communicate active lifestyles, and bags and other packaging that are easier to carry on foot or on bikes.
What it all means is that 2014 is going to be another brilliant year for packaging innovations. So keep an eye out for them all!
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