Current trends and expert overview of the packaging industry

What do experts foresee for the next twelve months?

Packaging industry trends for 2025 will include reducing material usage and packaging sizes, simpler designs, and branding that reflects this shift. Sustainability and geopolitical uncertainty are also expected to drive an expansion of local production and packaging supply. While artificial intelligence is unlikely to have a significant impact on the packaging industry in 2025, legislation and expectations around e-commerce delivery could lead to substantial changes.

Expected packaging trends for 2025

Key trends predicted by various experts include:

• Stabilization of material prices, though rising costs will pressure businesses.
• Increased importance of local production and packaging supply.
• EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) regulations will encourage the use of smaller and lighter packaging.
• Higher taxes on plastic packaging will accelerate the shift to paper-based solutions.
• Political uncertainty and economic pressures are likely to affect packaging demand.
• Reshoring and nearshoring will create opportunities for reusable packaging.
• Changes in e-commerce will drive significant improvements in packaging and warehousing.
• Consumers will demand greater clarity regarding on-pack recycling information.
• Printing and branding will reflect the growing minimalism in packaging design.
• Recycled materials will increase their market share, but biodegradable alternatives may face challenges gaining traction.

Over the past five years, businesses have faced considerable financial pressures. COVID-19, inflation, the cost-of-living crisis, and political uncertainty have all affected demand, leading to sharp increases in costs at various times.
However, material prices are expected to stabilize in 2025. This consistency would benefit both packaging manufacturers and businesses relying on their products.

The importance of local production and packaging supply

With sustainability becoming increasingly vital for consumers and businesses, a shift toward local suppliers is anticipated.
While recyclable and biodegradable packaging is often celebrated, the CO2 emissions associated with its transport are frequently overlooked. Future-oriented businesses can reduce their Scope 3 emissions (those indirectly caused by the supply chain) by sourcing packaging locally.
Companies adopting this approach in 2025 can also expect improved services, particularly regarding flexibility and delivery schedules.

EPR regulations will promote smaller and lighter packaging

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation will come into greater effect in October 2025, when qualifying businesses will be liable for fees related to the amount of packaging they introduce to the market.
This will encourage businesses to reduce packaging weights and avoid unnecessary materials. A shift toward simpler and minimalist designs is also expected, which, besides enhancing sustainability, could result in significant cost savings.
Collaborating with experienced packaging designers will be crucial.

Limited influence of artificial intelligence on packaging processes

Artificial intelligence significantly impacts many industries, but its effects on packaging remain limited.
While tools exist for designing packaging through text prompts, their adoption has been slow. However, data analysis using AI could support informed decisions about packaging designs that attract customers and boost sales.

Quick commerce will drive improvements in packaging and warehousing

Quick commerce, characterized by same-day or even one-hour deliveries, will demand new approaches to efficient warehouse management and logistics.
The development of local fulfillment centers will require advanced order-sorting techniques and innovative storage solutions.

Printing and branding will reflect increasing minimalism

In 2025, a stronger trend toward simple, clean designs is expected. This minimalist approach underscores sustainability and reduced material usage.
The use of legible fonts and carefully crafted messages will be crucial for both impact and accessibility.

In conclusion

Despite challenges, 2025 trends present numerous opportunities for businesses to use packaging as a tool for engaging customers, improving quality, and cutting costs. By following expert predictions, companies can gain competitive advantages through innovative packaging solutions.