2023 is here, and with it comes new CPG packaging trends. While some existing ones may remain, you can bet the way companies pack their products will change. Here are some of the trends we can expect.

Why Trends Evolve

Packaging trends evolve and change because of changes in consumer purchasing habits, advances in technology, and changes in social norms and regulations. As consumer preferences and product requirements evolve, so do the types of packaging materials and designs. Brands must keep up with the changing trends in order to remain competitive and meet the needs of their consumers. Additionally, advances in technology are allowing for more innovative and sustainable packaging materials, designs, and processes. Finally, changes in social norms and regulations can also influence packaging trends, as brands strive to create packaging that is more sustainable and compliant with regulations.

The need for flexible CPG packaging is growing. Plas Pack predicts this global market will grow from $248.9 billion in December 2022 to $315.7 billion by 2027. This growth will occur at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8%.

Packaging design trends follow the demands of consumers and the changing economy. Here are some trends you can integrate into your brand.

Sustainable Packaging

While not a new trend, sustainable packaging design will continue to be popular in 2023. Sustainable packaging design is popular with consumers because it reduces waste, is often made of recycled or recyclable materials, and can help reduce the environmental impact of packaging.

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of their choices on the environment, and sustainable packaging design offers them an opportunity to make environmentally conscious choices. Additionally, sustainable packaging design can often be more cost-effective than traditional packaging, which can be a big draw for brands looking to save money.

It's crucial to communicate your commitment to using sustainable CPG packaging. Consumers want to know which brands share their values of sustainability, so the messaging should be clear and concise.

Multi-Functional Packaging

Multi-functional packaging designs are innovative. This trend is especially popular in the food and beverage industry where lots of food goes to waste each year.

As the costs of food increase, consumers will want CPG packaging that keeps food fresh for longer periods. A resealable packaging design is convenient and reduces waste.

The spout pouch, which can easily dispense food without requiring utensils or exposing it to the air, is another example of multi-functional packaging design. These pouches are growing in popularity and are also used in industries like beauty and pharmaceuticals.

Microwavable CPG packaging is also multi-functional. It protects food and serves as a cooking container.

Microwavable packaging is a trend that will continue to grow. Consumers want simplicity, convenience and portability. This type of packaging design will provide these things while adhering to changing lifestyles.

Influential Colors

Colors have major impacts on the purchasing decisions of consumers. They can evoke positive and negative emotional responses. The responses your color choices conjure can be personal or specific to your consumer base. This makes it critical to understand your consumer.

Research shows that up to 90% of snap judgments made about products are based on color alone. Colors can evoke different emotions and associations, which can have a major impact on how consumers perceive a product or brand. For example, warm colors such as red, orange, and yellow tend to evoke feelings of excitement and energy, while cool colors such as blue and green are more calming and relaxing. Color can also be used to influence the perceived value of a product. For example, luxury brands often use gold and silver to give their products a high-end look and feel. Ultimately, the use of color has the potential to influence a consumer’s decision to purchase a product or brand.

Colors will play important roles in your CPG packaging materials, graphics, and text. Consider this when creating your packaging design budget.

Conclusion

Packaging design has a significant impact on consumers. In 2018, Ipsos reported 67% of consumers were influenced by which CPG packaging materials were used when deciding which products to buy.

Keeping up with CPG packaging trends will help you stay ahead of the competition. This gives you opportunities to communicate your brand values to consumers and establish a packaging design and style all your own.

PKG Brand Design is always at the forefront of new CPG branding and packaging initiatives. Subscribe to our blog for the latest package design industry news!