US $975 billion turnover generated with packaging

The multi-national market research company Mintel sees a need for action in a total of five categories if companies do not want to “miss the boat” for future packaging trends. The evaluation of the study produced the following results:

Key Elements

- Packaging structure and trademark:
Not only generate attention at the POS but also create a lasting image and thereby foster long-term shopper loyalty.

- Two-thirds shop online:
In Great Britain alone two thirds of all polled consumers expect to make their purchases – including food - predominantly online within the coming decade. Innovative design as well as swift and safe shipping boost confidence in a brand.

- Smart Packaging:
Software, QR codes and real-time interaction options integrated into packaging are considered a priority.

- Building loyal customers with entertaining qualities:
Packaging should also be fun! Authenticity and a sense of community influence purchasing decisions.

- Brand trust:
Shape, colour and material of packaging create a basis of trust with consumers and extend the customer’s relationship with the original product line.

In general, the Mintel experts expect purchases in bricks-and-mortar retail to decline and online shopping to rise instead. This is why packaging design should be impressive rather than expansive and make for safe shipping. This means compact dimensions as well as durable material that withstands any kind of weather.

In contrast to this, others see a trend towards yesteryear: emotional attachment to products should be focused on and feelings of nostalgia awakened. A comeback of hand-written labels and vintage packaging is expected.