Packaging Design Priorities for 2022

Data gathered by L.E.K. Consulting shows a steady increase in spending on B2C packaging design over the past two years. This trend is forecast to continue through 2022, but where is the budget being directed?

Printed Packaging

The research revealed that the main driver was graphics and branding. Companies want to stand out from the competition. They need printed packaging that attracts the eye and encourages buyers to take a closer look.

Many brands realise the need to provide packaging design that is up to the scrutiny of unboxing videos. How can a brand entice recipients before the contents are revealed? Printed packaging also supports brand recognition; the more familiar the colours, typography and graphics, the more likely shoppers will pick it up to buy.

Compact, Lightweight Packaging

Reducing the size and weight of products and/or packaging has many financial and environmental benefits. Lower volumes of packaging materials and less space for storage and transportation are required. Collectively, these cut costs and lower carbon emissions.

Bespoke boxes enable products to be packaged to offer optimum protection. Designed specifically for the product, they ensure the packaging contains nothing more or less than is needed.

Sustainable Packaging Design

A big shift in packaging design has been driven by public opinion. Consumers are looking to brands to make it easier for them to make more environmentally-conscious decisions. Buyers are selecting products based on packaging materials and recyclability.

Consumers are favouring:

– Plastic-free packaging

 – Packaging manufactured from recycled or responsibly-sourced materials

 – Boxes that can be recycled in household collections

 – Simplicity of design over excessive layers

Alongside innovative new materials, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional packaging materials including corrugated cardboard, glass and aluminium.

Is your packaging delivering what consumers desire in 2022?