David Roberge

By: David Roberge on March 23rd, 2017

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Green Packaging Material Trends in 2017

Packaging Materials

AdobeStock_30189808.jpegIf you had to make a list of the things that are most important for a product's success, packaging would undoubtedly be near the top. According to a 2015 Cone Communications and Ebiquity Global CSR Study on Consumer Trends, 84% of respondents said they were very likely to buy a product if they thought it had social or environmental benefits like green packaging and related materials.But green packaging itself is not the trend—it is merely the catalyst to a series of new perspectives on packaging. There are a number of key green packaging material trends that you should definitely watch out for in 2017.

Customer-Focused Packaging

One of the most interesting trends in green packaging materials that has grown steadily over the last few years is customer-focused packaging. This can come in many forms, but one of the most prevalent is portion control in food products. As populations age and consumers become more focused on cutting weight and living healthier lifestyles, portion control starts to become more important. According to IRI/FMI, consumers are more frequently looking for food items that are easier to eat, easier to prepare, and easier to customize; green packaging can help make all of this possible.

It's All about Flexibility

According to an integrated study on packaging conducted by the FPA, consumers consider general flexibility to be one of the defining reasons they select particular products over others, especially when it comes to food. People routinely said they were looking for packaging that is easy to store, reseal, and open, as well as packaging that can extend the shelf life of the product they've just purchased.

Logistical Goals

Finally, one of the major trends in green packaging materials in 2017 has nothing to do with consumers and everything to do with the businesses who serve them. According to a study conducted by the Flexible Packaging Association, brand owners are continually looking for ways to break new ground with green packaging by decreasing packaging waste and increasing transportation efficiency. All of these help not only cut costs, but increase the operational efficiency of a business and improve already-thin profit margins in a way that benefits everyone involved.

If you’re considering making your packaging more sustainable, contact the professional packaging advisors at Industrial Packaging!

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About David Roberge

I am grateful for my 9 years as part of the outstanding Industrial Packaging team. I was able to hang out with some of the most knowledgeable folks in the packaging industry. I feel even luckier that I was able to share that knowledge with you. I love learning, hiking, and growing people and teams both personally and professionally, and helping companies grow better.