A pandemic and war hit the packaging market hard. Also on that of food packaging. This does not prevent us from detecting certain trends that we believe are important for 2023.
Packaging, more than just a cost
We cannot ignore the numerous price increases over the past year. The budget associated with packaging is therefore increasingly important. Since no significant declines are expected in the short term, the added value of packaging will become increasingly important. What is the role of packaging and for what purpose should I invest in packaging? These are crucial questions. Food packaging must prove its added value. Other than the means of transport and the protection of what it contains, possible considerations include:
Delivery & Dark Kitchen
The trend towards home deliveries will only increase. Just because of staffing issues and rising labor costs, we are seeing an increase in “dark kitchens”, kitchens that are entirely focused on delivering to customers. In addition, digitization has also given a strong boost to the possibilities of quick ordering and home or office delivery. Many catering formulas or shops have developed a professional “delivery” range, using personalized packaging.
Large print
Clear and soothing packaging in bright colors is the design trend of the moment. Under the motto “less is more”, large letters are used with accompanying images and, why not, even letters are deliberately omitted. In a society where everyone is looking for attention, it’s not only about standing out immediately, but also conveying the desired message quickly and clearly.
Codes QR
The use of QR codes is increasing significantly. This allows you to provide the customer with a much richer user experience. Think artificial intelligence and your food packaging almost literally comes to life. Obtaining a lot of additional data is also very easy thanks to QR codes. Every interaction can be constructed in such a way that relevant and interesting content is shared with pleasure. To enhance all subsequent customer interactions, for that matter.
Seamless durability
“Green washing” should really be forgotten from now on. People want to know clearly and unequivocally how your packaging contributes to a more sustainable planet. Biomaterials are on the rise, but the last word has not yet been said about them. Indeed, the origin of these materials, like all other materials, is very important. Partly because of the reality of war, attention to local production increased. Drive fewer kilometers and provide more transparency on how we produce and treat waste or energy.
Coatings
Plastic, especially monomaterials, is infinitely recyclable and is therefore not necessarily “bad”. Seas filled with plastic waste and calls to reduce fossil fuels keep the pressure on to use less plastic. The first alternatives are paper and cardboard. However, if they are to have the same functional properties as their plastic counterparts, there is no escaping “coatings”, i.e. additional layers with the desired functional properties. As such, we are seeing increased demand for solutions to process paper and cardboard for
These are the food packaging trends for 2023, according to Intersac. Wondering how you can take advantage of these trends to make your packaging project a reality? Let us know and we will be happy to help you. Or do you want to know more about Studio Intersac? We can do it too!
Do you want to organize a free packaging workshop at Intersac? Email Marc and he will contact you to make arrangements.
