Whether browsing stores or social media, it’s clear that packaging is more than just a protective layer around products. It’s a powerful tool that strengthens brand recognition, shapes consumer experiences, influences purchasing decisions, and reflects evolving societal values.
A 2018 study showed that 72% of Americans said that a product’s packaging design impacted their purchasing decision. In the same survey, 67% noted packaging materials also influenced their purchase. As unboxing videos continue to gain popularity on TikTok, Instagram, and other social platforms, there’s no doubt that packaging has had an even bigger influence on sales in recent years.
With more competition online and in stores and increased consumer awareness, it’s clear that packaging can significantly impact your business. It’s more important than ever to ensure your packaging is on-trend, aligned with your company’s values, and exceeds customer expectations.
As we enter 2025, we’re seeing some exciting packaging industry trends driven by technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and changing consumer preferences. Let’s delve into the top packaging trends your business should keep in mind as they look to improve their packaging and customer experience in the coming year.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Packaging
We’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about sustainable packaging trends. Today’s consumers are not just demanding eco-friendly and sustainable packaging; they expect a holistic approach to sustainability. As businesses respond, we expect sustainability to continue to be a dominant theme in packaging in 2025.
Research from McKinsey & Company shows that half of United States consumers are “highly concerned” about the environmental impact of packaging in general. The research also showed that consumers will pay more for sustainably packaged products, with an interest in recyclable and recycled plastic packaging and fiber-based substitutes.
From sustainable packaging materials like seaweed and fiber-based films to biodegradable plastics and circular design principles, more and more brands are aligning with the global movement toward a circular economy. We’ve also seen an increased emphasis on recyclability, reusability, compostability, and frustration-free packaging that reduces waste and materials.
Smart Packaging
In 2025, packaging will not just be a passive container. Like everything else, it’s becoming smarter. Intelligent packaging equipped with technology is set to revolutionize supply chains, enhance product safety, and provide consumers with real-time information about the products they purchase.
QR codes and near-field communication (NFC) tags on packaging are becoming popular among consumers and businesses, allowing more personalized experiences in a competitive market.
These smart additions allow consumers to scan and connect instantly to brands with their smartphones. They can access loyalty/rewards promotions and other exclusive content and easily share or connect with others who’ve bought the product. This takes unboxing experiences and loyalty to the next level.
QR codes and NFC tags also allow for increased safety and convenience. In addition to providing access to additional product information, they can also support automatic returns, refills, or replacements. Some luxury brands have also used these codes and tags to verify the authenticity of their products, minimizing fraud and counterfeits.
We also expect to see steps forward in smart packaging that helps users track product temperature, freshness, and other indicators to improve safety and use.
Minimalism and Simplicity
Some brands are embracing minimalist packaging in 2025, adopting clean, simple designs that communicate transparency and authenticity.
With a minimalist approach, brands attempt to say and do more with less. This includes eliminating unnecessary graphics and visuals to focus on clarity and ingredients. In a world of constant advertisements, minimalist packaging aims to minimize distractions and the brainpower needed to make a purchase decision.
This trend aligns with the aesthetic preferences of many modern consumers and supports sustainability efforts by minimizing excess materials and reducing packaging waste.
augmented reality (AR) packaging experiences
Augmented Reality is no longer confined to the digital realm; it’s making its way into the physical world through packaging. In 2025, brands are incorporating AR elements into their packaging to provide immersive and interactive experiences for consumers.
From virtual product demonstrations to gamified packaging, AR is transforming how consumers engage with products on the shelf. It not only grabs consumers’ attention, but it allows companies to showcase their brands in unique ways.
Depending on your goals and brand, AR could include immersive text, graphics, videos, animation, and games that allow customers to immerse themselves in your product. For example, you could give customers a behind-the-scenes look at how your product is made or even bring iconic brand mascots to life.
Personalization
As brands look to make emotional and long-lasting connections to customers, personalization in packaging has become bigger and more important than ever. In 2025, we expect to see brands finding unique ways to put customers front and center, including with the packaging process.
In terms of personalization, we expect to see more limited-edition packaging designs and seasonal exclusives that are Instagram-worthy and on-trend. This packaging strategy taps into customers’ fear of missing out (FOMO), causing them to clamor to order before time runs out.
User-generated packaging has also caught on. Turning to social media and other marketing platforms, brands are letting customers submit design ideas and/or vote on their favorites. And some have given customers more control over packaging at shipping, allowing them to choose certain designs, sizes, or other packaging preferences. This makes customers feel like they’re a part of the process and builds a stronger connection to your brand.
Innovative Colors & Finishing
The colors and finishing of your packaging can make all the difference. We expect to see more brands embracing unique colors and finishing options in 2025 and beyond.
The 2025 Pantone Color of the Year is Mocha Mousse. As you look to produce on-trend products that are Mocha Mousse in 2025, you can showcase them via your packaging with clear film and windows.
Experimenting with different films, materials, and finishing options can also help make your brand colors and logo stand out on your packaging. We’ve seen an increase in interest in holographic and iridescent finishing options, adding a touch of luxury and intrigue to make your product stand out on the shelf and land in your customers’ digital or physical shopping cart.
With the rise of e-commerce, packaging is evolving to meet the unique challenges of online retail. In 2025, expect to see more ephemeral or temporary packaging solutions that prioritize functionality and reduce waste associated with excessive materials. Brands will explore creative and sustainable ways to ensure that the unboxing experience is memorable without compromising on environmental responsibility.
stay on-trend in 2025 with CastlePierce
As we step into 2025, the packaging industry is at the forefront of innovation and transformation. From intelligent packaging solutions to sustainable practices and personalized experiences, brands are redefining the role of packaging in the consumer journey.
The packaging experts at Castle Pierce can help you stay ahead of the curve. We can help you bring your packaging designs to life and find innovative ways to delight customers and protect your products.
