As 2025 gets underway and we settle back into work mode, one question we often hear is: What trends will shape the packaging industry this year?
While no one can predict the future with absolute certainty, discussing emerging trends is always a great way to spark conversations and stay ahead of industry shifts. So, here’s our take on what’s coming in the world of packaging!
1.Sustainability and Packaging Will Become More Intertwined
For years, sustainability and packaging have often felt like two separate conversations. While they occasionally intersect, they have largely been running parallel races.
In 2025, we expect sustainability to be more deeply embedded in packaging strategies. Rather than just focusing on sustainable materials, discussions will shift toward how packaging can actively drive sustainable behaviours. This means packaging solutions that encourage recycling, reduce waste, and contribute to a more circular economy will take centre stage.
2. Creative Artwork and Design Will Be a Key Differentiator
Standing out on the shelf has always been important, but in 2025, brands will take creative packaging to the next level.
Expect to see more limited-edition and collectible-style packaging that creates a sense of exclusivity and excitement. This trend isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about fostering emotional connections with consumers and enhancing brand loyalty. Whether through artistic collaborations or seasonal designs, brands will use packaging as a storytelling tool.
3. Packaging Will Get Smaller
If you’ve followed our content, you know we champion the less is more philosophy in packaging—even as a packaging supplier!
In 2025, we anticipate a shift toward smaller, more convenient packaging formats. Brands are increasingly catering to on-the-go lifestyles, leading to a rise in miniature packs, portion-controlled servings, and travel-friendly packaging. For example, instead of large packs of cookies, we might see an increase in individually wrapped, lunchbox-friendly portions. Whilst this may enhance convenience, this also means more packaging material is needed. Consumers will ultimately need to decide whether convenience out weighs the use of more packaging.
4. Governments Will Ease Packaging Regulations
In recent years, significant progress has been made in setting regulations around packaging sustainability, waste reduction, and recyclability. While these frameworks have provided essential guidelines, 2025 may bring a shift in focus.
We predict that some governments will ease or delay packaging regulations as they prioritize other economic and environmental concerns. Whether this is the right move or not remains up for debate, but it could mean that some sustainability deadlines or compliance requirements get pushed further into the future.
5. The Cost of Packaging Will Rise
Not to sound like Captain Obvious, but economic pressures aren’t going away in 2025.
Despite some positive strides in 2024, factors like currency fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and rising material costs will continue to impact pricing. With the NZD/USD exchange rate dipping, packaging production is becoming more expensive and less profitable.
As a result, brands and suppliers will face tough decisions:
- Pass increased costs onto consumers (risking reduced sales)
- Absorb the higher costs (impacting profitability)
While some brands might try to balance both strategies, absorbing costs will likely emerge as the dominant approach in an effort to maintain customer loyalty and market share. Unfortunately, packaging costs won’t be immune to this financial squeeze.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—five key packaging trends we expect to see unfold in 2025!
From sustainability playing a bigger role to the rise of smaller, more creative, and potentially more expensive packaging, these shifts will shape the industry in the year ahead. Let’s check back in 12 months and see how our predictions hold up!
Until next time,
Hi-Tech Packaging