The dynamic transformations the corrugated industry is experiencing are influenced by innovation and changing demands. Industries like e-commerce and corrugated packaging have been significantly impacted by these shifts. The entry of modern, competent technologies has made the creation of better designs and materials possible.
This National Box Month, it’s worth recognizing how corrugated and paper packaging has evolved to meet the moment. The newly emerging trends in this space are widely embraced by businesses due to their lightweight, durable, customizable, and eco-friendly characteristics—making them ideal for a wide range of applications across industries.
As businesses and consumers continue to prioritize practical and sustainable solutions, corrugated and paper packaging stands out. With improved structural integrity, refined designs, and digital printing capabilities, these solutions not only meet functional needs but also support broader environmental goals.
Quick Review of the previous Trends
Trends to Expect
In this new year, the packaging industry must prepare to face certain challenges yet grow with opportunities.
Challenges:
Opportunities:
Top 7 Paper Packaging Trends
1. Sustainability Remains Primary
What are your expectations when entering a store or buying products online as a consumer? By now, we have all become accustomed to spotting eco-friendly packaging, be it the parcel in which your products are packed or the paper bag in which you buy groceries. As consumer preference for brands showing eco-conscious efforts rise, the brands are also giving their best efforts to meet their customer’s requirements.
2. Advanced Digital Printing
Technologically advanced digital printing has already made statements in 2024. But this year, the focus has shifted to improving speed and affordability. More and more businesses are seeking printed packaging solutions. Local trend in digital printing demands the creation of innovative personalized designs, receipts, ready-to-display packaging and short-run productions. The advantage businesses get from printing is establishing brand identity and creating engaging customer experiences.
3. E-commerce-Centric Packaging
Consumers today prefer the convenience of ordering a product within few clicks and receiving them directly at their doorstep. The expectation is that the products must be delivered in an optimal state. E-commerce businesses are exploring options of water-resistant packaging, box designs that are easy-to-assemble, and safe and efficient logistics. As we look ahead to 2025, we observe a growing focus on ensuring product safety as well as providing a surreal unboxing experience.
4. Smart Interactive Packaging
Businesses are getting playful with what they can do with smart technology. QR codes, NFC tags, augmented reality experiences – we have all experienced them. However, more can be extracted from them to improve the interactive experience. Several studies reveal that consumers are willing to pay extra for the user experience than the actual cost of the product.
5. Anti-Counterfeiting Measures
As global markets continue to expand, the risk of counterfeit products rises. 2025 brings more experimentation with holographic labels, tamper-evident seals, and product serialization. Brands facing challenges with fake products threatening their reputation can expect to breathe a sigh of relief.
6. Paperization Trend
The focus of companies is shifting to fiber-based alternatives, meeting sustainability goals and regulatory requirements. Corrugated and kraft paper packaging not only meet the minimalistic design preferences of consumers but also make the packaging more attractive. This trend is set to ignite innovation of molded fiber material, which is durable and biodegradable. For convenience, packaging companies are experimenting with making these new paper packaging options reusable.
7. Trade Regulations
As the market got impacted by the trade regulation, it’s clear that staying informed and proactive is vital for the packaging industry. Collaborating across the supply chain, investing in innovative materials, and focusing on compliance are all essential strategies for navigating these regulatory challenges while pursuing sustainable growth. Strategic geographical presence is important for evolving businesses.
TAPPI
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