Packaging Trends for 2022

Now more than ever, brands need to differentiate themselves, and packaging is one way to stand out. Considering that 72 % of U.S. consumers say their purchase decisions are influenced by packaging design, your packaging could be the deciding factor in supporting your consumers versus your competitors. 

As Steve Jobs said, "Packaging can be theater; it can create a story." That's exactly how your brand should look at it. Your packaging is an important way for consumers to interact with your brand. It creates a product experience and speaks volumes about who you are as a brand. That's why you should invest in the right elements, taking into account everything from materials to style. It's always best to find the perfect balance between looks and function. 

Many packaging trends will emerge in 2022, and here are some of our favorites. From security to best-in-class design, these are some ideas for staying ahead of the packaging game. 

F710 Transparent Water Bag

 

Protective and Tamper-Resistant Packaging 

Now, more than ever, manufacturers and consumers are focusing on health and safety as a top priority. This investment in health and safety has led to the need for protective and tamper-proof packaging. For example, we see many manufacturers using blister packs, sealing tapes and tamper-resistant closures. 

Using this type of barrier packaging allows consumers to see if their package has been tampered with, giving them more confidence and peace of mind.

One of the most common uses of tamper-resistant packaging is for pharmaceuticals. However, this approach is important for many industries, including food and beverages, nutraceuticals and pet care. 

Tamper-resistant packaging must have one or more indications or barriers to entry that can reasonably be expected to provide consumers with visible evidence that tampering has occurred if it is tampered with or lost.

 

Virtual and Augmented Reality Packaging

These trends are gaining some traction in 2021 and show no signs of disappearing. The goal behind these trends is to engage consumers. While it's not for all businesses, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) packaging can benefit companies that offer higher-priced products or services. It also makes sense for more engaged brands looking to engage consumers in a meaningful way. Whether it's a dedicated coupon, offer, game or interactive experience, consumers can engage through the use of an AR or VR device such as a tablet, smartphone or VR headset. 

When you take packaging to the next level, these technologies can give your company an edge that your competitors lack. You can also attract more customers and increase brand loyalty. 

 

Connected Packaging

If your goal is to deliver more attractive packaging and provide an enhanced user experience while collecting relevant data, then connected packaging may be the answer you seek.

Also known as smart packaging, connected packaging incorporates technology into its design. This capability is thanks to digital printing technology, which allows you to transition to a greater sense of connection. This benefits both your brand and your customers. Your customers feel engaged and understood, and you gain deeper knowledge about preferences, behaviors and other demographic information. 

Part of this modern technology approach is the use of QR codes. Think of these codes as unique fingerprints. This "fingerprint" allows you to identify and communicate targeted information about a specific package. 

Here are some applications.

● Authentication to protect against counterfeit products

● Traceability, so consumers can identify the exact lot or person who processed their product 

● Ability to communicate marketing messages and details such as geographic location, date or description

● Collecting data for market research 

This type of packaging benefits brands in a variety of industries, from personal care to household and industrial chemicals.

 

Clean copy

In the past, we've discussed trends in clean packaging. Now, we are discussing the concept of clean copy.

Clean copy is the perfect example of how less is more. Sometimes, the simpler the message, the more likely it is to get through to the consumer. The goal is to create simple messages that demonstrate the power of words.

Let the package speak for itself.

When consumers see packaging that conveys a clear message, they know what they are buying. Sometimes, it's the difference between buying something or moving on.

 

The key is to avoid "marketing talk," speak more casually to your audience, and talk more. Consumers are more savvy than ever. They are tired of being sold in ways that lack authenticity and transparency. Get it right and you'll stand out from your competitors. 

Additional tips.

● The font you use matters. No matter how well written your copy is, what's the point if your customers can't read it? Use a clear font that matches your brand identity, whether that font is fun and playful or professional and serious. 

● Keep it short so the text is easy to understand. You want consumers to be able to quickly look at your tag and see if it's what they're looking for. Be specific and draw a picture. 

● Watch industry jargon. The terminology used in your industry may be second nature to you, but do your customers use the same language?

 

E-commerce and brick-and-mortar store design

Despite the growth of online sales, consumers still crave the physical experience that digital shipping can't deliver. That's why many brick-and-mortar storefronts now offer both - an in-store shopping experience and an online shopping opportunity. 

With these two considerations in mind, it's important to design packaging for both. To thrive in both business environments, you need to focus on packaging that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. 

Again, simplified packaging is favored by consumers. Use large fonts, single colors and straightforward marketing, while letting creativity shine through. When designing to sell online, your packaging needs to arrive safely at its destination. Therefore, how well it travels is something to consider.