Food packaging is no longer just about keeping products safe and intact. Today, packaging is a critical part of a brand’s identity and a powerful tool for connecting with consumers.
Walk down any supermarket aisle and you’ll see the change. Sleek, flexible pouches are replacing bulky boxes. QR codes invite you to learn more about products with a quick scan. And everywhere, there’s a push for materials that won’t take up space in landfills for centuries.
Smart brands are listening and adapting fast. They’re exploring innovative materials, rethinking design, and finding ways to make packaging interactive and environmentally friendly. In this blog, we’re exploring the exciting trends that are reshaping the packaging industry.
Sustainability is Key
Today’s consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, and they’re looking for brands to step up their sustainability efforts. A recent study by Boston Consulting Group found that 59% of consumers are less likely to buy products in packaging that’s harmful to the environment. And, other studies show that 82% of consumers across age demographics are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging. Switching to eco-friendly options can both help you protect the environment and cater to eco-conscious consumers.
Flexible packaging offers sustainable options to fit almost any need. At PPC Flex, our Thrive line includes recycled and compostable packaging materials. We also offer post consumer recyclable kraft paper and recyclable LDPE and HDPE options.
Shift from Rigid to Flexible Packaging
Businesses are switching to flexible packaging instead of rigid solutions, with the food industry leading the charge. In fact, the food sector is projected to account for 40% of the flexible packaging market share by 2025.
According to Research and Markets, this shift is “driven by multiple factors, including sustainability, cost-effectiveness, convenience, and advancements in materials.” Flexible packaging requires fewer materials to produce and often costs less than rigid packaging. Its lightweight nature also reduces shipping costs. Additionally, innovations like high-barrier films have improved product protection and shelf life. This makes it viable for a wider range of products.
Healthy Indulgence and Convenience
Today’s consumers are more health-focused, with 85% of them actively trying to improve their diets. Portion-controlled packaging caters to people who are looking to indulge in great-tasting food while sticking to a balanced diet. Additionally, consumers increasingly prefer on-the-go meals and snacks, which aligns with the convenience offered by portion packs. Flexible packaging makes it easy to create portion-controlled products that appeal to these consumers.
Domestic Manufacturing
There will also be an increased reliance on domestic manufacturing partners who create packaging materials. Supply chain resilience has become a key factor for businesses, with companies looking to reduce risks associated with global disruptions.
Integration of Digital and Interactive Elements
Lastly, businesses are turning to smart packaging solutions to help them stand out in the marketplace. QR codes and NFC tags allow customers to access additional information about the product. Some businesses even add augmented reality like interactive games, puzzles, or immersive experiences related to the product or brand.
Work with PPC Flex for Your Packaging Needs
If you’re looking for a quality food packaging manufacturer, you’ve come to the right place. For decades, our team has been helping businesses like yours get purposeful, powerful packaging solutions. When you work with us, our team will develop a deep understanding of your business, matching you with the custom option that fits your exact specifications. To date, we’ve worked with hundreds of happy customers. We’d be delighted to help you, too.
With an agile and experienced approach, we leverage the most experienced industry leaders to anticipate challenges before they arise. We’ll take on all the complexity so you can focus on what matters most — growing your business. With nimble systems, a passionate team, and leading-edge innovations, we offer a complete suite of services that scale as you do. And we do it all with sustainability in mind. From the initial design to the final shipment, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s Get Started
Want to learn more about what we can do for you? Reach out to our team for an initial consultation.