According to “Global Packaging Trends,” a new report compiled by Euromonitor International for PMMI Business Intelligence, there are other regional trends as well, including premiumization, value-for-money packs and re-fillable packs – all driven by consumer demand for convenience and health consciousness.
Sustainability has a continued focus, as more eco-friendly materials for green and sustainable packaging have been introduced. In China, Ecolean packaging is gaining popularity as an innovation in plastic pouches that is lightweight and eco-friendly, with a convenient shape for portability. In North America, recyclable PET is also gaining popularity due to rising environmental concerns.
Globally, flexible plastic and PET bottles were the most sought-after pack types across multiple categories (salty snacks, noodles, confectionery) in 2018. Lightweight and convenient for on-the-go use, they are also customizable and cost effective to manufacture.
Bottled water was the leading global packaging category with the largest volume share in 2018, followed by beer. PET bottles are the most preferred pack type, with an expected continued growth due to the development of recycled PET bottles. Glass bottles remain the most popular pack type due to heritage, returnability, and premiumization, while metal cans are seeing healthy growth due to the rising trend of craft beer.
