Spring F&D Packaging Trends: Design-Wise
We are continuing to outline all the guidelines that will shape F&D packaging trends for this Spring. This fourth post lays out another trend, which will affect the outcome of upcoming decisions over colour, materials and surface design. Our next key trend for the coming season is called “Design-Wise”.
BREAKING DOWN THE CONCEPT
It is important to remember that consumers are driving demand for products and experiences that are both smart and simple. The Design-Wise trend elevates the importance of environmentally conscious, durable and versatile packaging design to such a level that these qualities are integral to their long-term appeal.
It goes without saying that this concept presents a responsible vision of what a good design can be and do. To foster this initiative, the current direction is moving towards creating offerings that are intelligent, thoughtful and full of optimism. This means that for Food and Drink packaging, brands would do well to ensure that offerings are not only universally informative, but also comfortingly sustainable.
MATERIALS
We must take into account that plastic consumption is set to hit alarming levels. Research shows that the consumption of this material will double in the next two decades. Moreover, the flow of plastic into the ocean is projected to nearly triple within the same timeframe. This is why the solutions that lessen our dependence on single-use plastics are of paramount importance.
Innovations are focused on creating designs that utilise certain shapes or material choices to heighten their chances of being successfully reused or recycled. Innovative new materials including bioplastics and compostables ought to be up for strong consideration. The use of cardboard and aluminium packaging will become commonplace.
AESTHETIC
It is estimated that just 14% of plastic packaging is recycled globally. This is largely due to the fact that plastic can be difficult to separate from other waste or materials. Efforts should be focused on facilitating easier recycling, by creating designs with just a single material. Keep an eye out for mono-material designs that facilitate the recycling process.
On the whole, it seems like optimism will be the key concept that defines design aesthetic. The use of mono-colour and repetitive patterns will be in vogue.
COLOUR PALETTE
This spring, keep the focus on confidence and clarity, by opting for colours that communicate simplicity and versatility. The concept is not about multi-coloured designs, but rather simple yet effective choices like colour pairings or confident monotones. Muted bright colours and core classics will be in strong demand.
While drawing up plans for your packaging design, we strongly recommend tackling the move away from plastic. Bear in mind how wide a selection of alternatives you have, whether it be bioplastics, recycled plastics, cardboard or aluminium. Consider refillables, to extend the life cycle of packaging beyond a single use and have the design encourage consumers to see refilling as the norm. As more companies create refill stations in-store, the benefits of building and boosting consumer loyalty should be taken into account.
Are you ready to experiment with your packaging this Spring?