During the past decade, packaging industry trends have evolved from traditional packaging to technology-enabled smart packaging solutions.
According to the reports of the Packaging Industry Association of India (PIAI), the packaging sector is the fifth largest sector in India which was valued at US$ 50.5 billion in 2019 and is expected to reach a market value of US$ 204.8 in 2024.
The packaging industry has been seeing steady growth over the years due to an increase in consumer needs. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the packaging industry's growth exponentially with the surge of the e-commerce sector.
Growing concern for the environment made people opt for various eco-friendly substitutes for plastic. This led to the evolution of multiple innovative packaging trends. In the article, let us try to look at the top packaging trends which are going to rule in 2022.
Technology-Enabled Smart Packaging
The packaging industry has immense scope to leverage technological advancement. Today, we can see QR code/barcode on every branded product which makes it unique to trace while also ensuring authenticity of the brand to the customer. But the role of technology in packaging doesn’t stop with barcodes, integration of sensors i.e., RFID packaging, enhances safety against theft during shipments.
To add fun and interactive elements, Augmented Reality (AR) can be integrated in packaging to make the user engage with high-end video content.
In addition, AR can be used to scan and display more specific information about the products by scanning images on the package through a smartphone.
Sustainable and Climate Friendly Packaging
With growing awareness about the adverse impact of plastic usage on the environment, GenZ and Millennials are not hesitating to spend additional cost on eco-friendly products instead of ‘bearing the guilt’ of promoting climatic disasters.
Before the usage of plastic, glass and metal were majorly used for packaging purposes, but cost-effectiveness and convenience provided by plastic has thrown back glass and metal. Due to their eco-friendliness, glass and metal are revamping their position in packaging. Industries are opting for glass, metal and paper-based packaging to add attractive designs on the packages to gain traction of customers.
Personalized and Portable Packaging
Personalization is an ever-green trend. One cannot deny that personalized packaging makes them feel special about the product. Personalization can be bought by simple tricks like using customized stickers, adhesive tapes, or rubber stamps.
Further, portability is an undeniable need of any product. Portable packaging refers to on-go-carry packages which one can carry anywhere or everywhere. Although portable packaging cannot be possible in all industries, it can be leveraged in food, drink, and dairy products.
McDonald’s has launched McBike Package specially designed for cyclists, which is one of the best examples of portable packaging.
Final Thoughts
Mere purpose of packaging is not just limited to ensuring safety of the product against any damage. However, attractive packaging plays a major role in driving sales of the product.
Although the current trend of the packaging industry has been significantly shifting to eco-friendly solutions, some major shifts are yet to be seen and latest innovations in technology and design are going to play a major role in bringing the change. So, undoubtedly, we can anticipate this decade to be disruptive in the packaging industry.
To know more about the current market scenario for the Packaging Industry, request a sample.
Divyanshu Sharma
Co-founder and Director at RationalStat
Divyanshu is an experienced market research consultant. He helps growth-driven organizations and entrepreneurs understand market entry prospects, industry assessment, and grow their revenue strategically.
