The world is changing at an unprecedented rate. New technology, increased automation, and digitization of just about everything have resulted in a more dynamic society than ever before. In this new world, constant change has become the status quo. And it applies to how we do the packaging as well — manufacturers need to adjust their strategy accordingly if they want to remain competitive.
Here are eight industry-wide trends to look for in the year 2022:
Optimal use of 3D printing
3D Printing has been around for decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it became powerful enough to create parts that can be used as functional end-products. Philips, for example, is now using 3D-printed parts in its new smart light bulbs. But when will we be able to use the same technology for nail paint bottle packaging?
That is not very far by 2022 when 3D printers weighing less than one kilogram can print objects that fit into a 100-millimeter cube and achieve intricate details smaller than a millimeter (much like printing with icing on a cake). This would not only allow for more efficient, cost-effective packaging designs but could also be used to print graphics directly onto flexible pouches or bottles.
Mass customization
Manufacturers are striving to make products that exactly match what consumers want, ideally through mass customization. And increasingly, this is becoming a reality: Customers will be able to pick and choose all kinds of details and options, for example, for a shirt. This becomes even more relevant as customers have come to expect their products to be exclusive — only they should wear those shoes or have that specific shade of paint.
In 2022, it is expected that customers will customize their products at the design and manufacturing levels. This means that designs can be made in one configuration and then mass-produced through 3D printing for consumers all over the world.
More sustainable packaging
Manufacturers are constantly developing new materials with better performance in terms of quality, economics, and sustainability to meet consumer demands. In 2022, it will become even more critical that paper bags and custom setup boxes for packaging are made from sustainable or biodegradable materials — for both manufacturers and consumers.
Given the constant rise of demand, we can also expect to see an increase in greenhouse gas emissions as a result. The question then becomes: How do you produce more with less footprint?
One option would be to reduce the amount of packaging material (e.g., reduce or eliminate secondary packaging) or make it lighter. Another option is to increase reuse and recycling rates, which is already picking up speed across all industries as consumers are now recycling their cans, glass bottle packs, and plastic bags.
The rise of additive manufacturing
Additive Manufacturing (AM) has been seen as an alternative to traditional manufacturing for years. It will become one of the essential pillars of production by 2022, allowing manufacturers to produce small quantities at low cost and high quality while opening up new opportunities in product design.
AM should be used extensively for prototyping and short-run final products, should these prove desirable to consumers. For long-run production, AM should be used for low-volume production runs and difficult or impossible parts to stamp.
The rise of food printing
Many people have seen 3D printers as a novelty at first, but the technology has rapidly evolved beyond desktop printers with extrusion heads. By 2022, it is expected that 3D printers will become more common and affordable, enabling consumers to print their own food.
One such example is the Foodini from Natural Machines, which uses fresh ingredients and allows you to prepare a meal with minimal fuss. This could lead to yet another rise in the DIY movement as people will have more options for customizing their meals at home and saving money.
The rise of custom fakes and counterfeits
With the advent of 3D printing, we can expect to see an increase in counterfeit products, whether food or medicine. Research firm Gartner predicts that counterfeit goods will cost manufacturers $200 billion by 2015. Even if these numbers do not include parts or materials, they make a strong case for why you should be careful when printing your own products.
Another growing problem is the trade of counterfeit 3D models that can lead to copyright infringement and knock-offs — whether it’s a toy or part of the artwork. It’s easy to see how this can become an even more significant issue if we do not put proper protections in place.
The rise of augmented reality and virtual reality
We’ve all seen what has happened to the video game industry by introducing new devices: Virtual reality headsets such as Oculus Rift and augmented reality glasses such as Google Glass will become more common and available by 2022, allowing users to blend physical and digital worlds seamlessly. This will create new possibilities as companies such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo provide funding for innovative products that do not require significant investments to start.
Use of glass bottle packaging to continue rising
The increase in glass bottle packaging is not only due to consumer desire for healthier, more transparent products; it’s also due to the growing number of beverages that are bottled. The largest sector of glass bottles is still beer (44%), but there has been a rising demand for carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) and bottled water.
High-profile brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been making sustainable packaging a priority. It is necessary to remain competitive against smaller players that have already made the switch because it sends a message of corporate responsibility to consumers.
Conclusion
Consumer behavior is evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends. The above trends are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to changes in packaging. The packaging industry has been one of the most stable for years. Still, now more than ever, we can expect significant shifts over the next five years as new technologies become more widely available and easier to use.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. What trends do you notice? What would you like to see more of? Which brands do you think are doing it right? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!