2022 Packaging Trends

2021 has flown by! 

A year of ups and downs, and a resemblance of normality here and there, we saw many trends and changes in the packaging industry. Looking ahead to 2022, we’re expecting to see the following trends when it comes to packaging:

Secure Packaging

It may seem like a mandatory characteristic of packaging but, since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in the need for tamper-evident packaging and protective packaging, especially with the rise of e-commerce. As a result, brands are looking to put their customers’ minds at ease by the following to their packaging:

• Barrier Protection: Depending on your product, you may need to consider adapting your barrier properties for a longer shelf-life.
• Materials & Specialty Finishes: Whether you’re using labels or flexible packaging, it’s important to analyze the materials you use to ensure that they don’t arrive to the customer torn, scuffed, or peeling. Utilizing stronger materials, specialty finishes, or even shrink sleeves in place of labels could be a great alternative, especially when packaging liquids.
• Tamper-Resistance & Traceability: Integrating functions like tamper-evident shrink seals or labels, tear notches, or child-resistant zippers into your packaging can add an extra level of security for your customers. 

To find out more, check out our post about preparing your packaging for e-commerce here.

Transparent Packaging

One of the most common trends we’ve seen in the last few years is transparent packaging. As the focus on clean labeling and transparent sourcing and messaging grow, brands are taking it one step further by incorporating transparency into their packaging. Integrating a clear window, clear labels, and other similar options demonstrates transparency to your customers.

Vintage Packaging

Vintage-inspired packaging has been a strong trend for many years, but it has risen in popularity significantly since 2020. With consumers experiencing uncertain times, the nostalgia from vintage packaging is more welcome than ever. When comfort and assurance are so needed, vintage packaging portrays a level of authenticity and familiarity that reassures consumers.

Vintage packaging can be achieved through retro colour schemes, manuscript lettering and old-time typefaces, foil stamping, and many other design options. To find out more, check out our blog post on how to achieve vintage packaging here.

Minimalist Packaging

A strong trend for many years now, the demand for minimalist packaging will continue into 2022. Whether this is achieved through design with minimal text, basic or abstract patterns, solid block colours, or structure selection, minimalist packaging is typically very well-received by consumers.

To find out more about how to achieve minimalist packaging in all its forms, check out our post here.

For more information about incorporating any of these trends into your packaging, reach out to our team of experts here or request a quote online today!