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Five trends that will dominate global packaging markets

As e-commerce grows, brands must explore the opportunities and threats it can bring, as the shift from in-store to in-home shopping becomes a core part of packaging design.

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Market research firm Mintel announced five key trends set to impact global packaging markets during 2017, including implications for consumers, brands, retailers and package manufacturers.

1.The [Re] Union of Package Structure and Branding

The time is now for brands to roll out unique packaging structures that not only differentiate on shelf, but also help form and support brand identity.

2. The Face and Role of Packaging Online

As e-commerce grows, brands must explore both the opportunities and threats that this can bring, as the shift from in-store to in-home shopping becomes a core part of the packaging design.

3. Packaging Gets Smart, Active and Intelligent

While there is a lack of standardized definitions for smart, active, intelligent and even mobile-enabled packaging, there are still clear and measurable connections with consumers and in some cases, it is even saving lives.

4. The Experience of Packaging

Packaging design has become dominated by the need for brand recognition and variant identification and information. Consumers are increasingly looking for brands to entertain and engage them.

5. Extend My Brand

Price is a key factor in consumers’ purchasing decisions, but brand trust also plays a pivotal role. Brands can leverage trust to create loyalty and extend a product portfolio well beyond traditional categories.

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