How will the packaging industry change in the next year?

The product packaging industry has gone through many different changes over the years. This is thanks to advances in design principles and printing technology. Many packaging trends come and go, but there are always new trends on the horizon that continue to gain a foothold. Today, we’re going to look at some of the changes – and continuations – that you can expect for product packaging in 2023.

Creative Package Fonts

You may never have thought about it before, but some of your favorite brands have become stuck in your head because of the typefaces they use. This is a big reason people can immediately identify a brand even if it’s subtle and they don’t consciously notice it. Using creative fonts on your packaging, as well as, in your brand itself is a great way to grab attention. This is certainly something we’ll continue to see in 2023.

Minimalist Designs 

This specific packaging design concept has become quite trendy over the years, and we think it will continue for a long time to come. Many of today’s consumers aren’t huge fans of packaging that’s filled with numerous shapes, colors, illustrations, and other design elements all over. Instead, many people are turning to a minimalist design where empty space is the rule rather than the exception. With this kind of design concept, you’re making a statement about your brand with as few design elements as possible.

Space-Saving Packaging

As we head toward 2023, we can expect companies will try to reduce the size of the product packaging they’re using as much as possible. Not only does this mean they’ll be paying for fewer materials, but it’ll also result in more products being able to fit in less space. Companies will be able to ship more items for the same cost and retailers can fit more of them on a shelf.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

In recent years, companies have been switching over to eco-friendly packaging. Whether it’s recyclable, already recycled, or both. It’s a good bet that this type of customization principle will remain in 2023 and most likely for years to come. Whenever possible, companies will also attempt to move into fully sustainable packaging, and they’ll use that to cement their brand as eco-friendly.

Localized Illustrations 

In recent years, the concept of localized illustrations has cropped up. This is basically where companies are designing product packaging that’s geo-targeted to certain areas. For instance, if products are being sold in a specific state, you may want to design packaging that has a beach, mountain, or other illustration that fits what the stat is known for. The same thing can be done in a more localized area, such as using a city’s skyline or local venue as part of the packaging design.

Smart Packaging

Smart packaging is a general term that’s used to describe any time technology is used to enhance packaging. This could be something as simple as a QR code or GPS tracking, but it can also be used for anti-theft, tamper-proofing, logistics trackers, and several other applications. This will be a great way for businesses in 2023 and beyond to improve the experience for both the user and the company itself.

Social Media Connection

Social media is another aspect of branding and marketing that isn’t going anywhere. In 2023, companies will likely be pushing their social media platforms even more, so don’t be surprised if you see more packaging where websites and social media addresses are listed as part of the design. You might also see an uptick in the use of QR codes that will send people directly to a website or social media account.

Augmented Reality

Companies have barely begun to understand the capabilities of using augmented reality with their products. Not only is this something that can be used for the products themselves, but it can also be used to enhance packaging. This is a concept where a consumer can point their phone at a piece of packaging and what’s on the screen will interact with the box, carton, bag, etc. We haven’t seen it used a lot, but 2023 is ripe for this sort of interaction.

Contact Color Pages for Custom Product Packaging 

Color Pages offers product packaging for pharmaceuticals, food, beverage, cosmetics, and all other industries. We specialize in graphic design and professional printing services, making us a one-stop shop for product packaging and folding cartons. If you have any questions about our services or would like to receive a free estimate, call us at (727) 530-3370 today.