The start of a new year is often a time of change and reflection, as well as being an opportunity for businesses to set the agenda for the months ahead. 2022 is already looking to be filled with new innovations, trends and disruptions, and our team has put together their thoughts on what is set to dominate the industry.

Are you ready to make these a priority within your packaging strategy?

Eco Action: Eco packaging is not a new concept within the industry, with demand for the use of re-usable, recyclable and/or green materials now at an all-time high. However, with new legislation set to call on businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, and the UK’s net zero goal, 2022 is set to be the year we begin to see measurable change.

Investments into reusable packaging, the rise of circular economy materials and critical reviews of business sustainability are just some of the actions we will see more businesses taking as they looking to demonstrate their eco-commitment.

Plastic-free: The UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax will take effect from the 1st April 2022, which will apply to all plastic packaging manufactured or imported in to the UK containing less than 30% recycled; equating to around £200 per tonne. Keen to avoid the tax, we can expect more businesses switching to high recycled content packaging, or ditching the use of plastic all together.

Connected Packaging: The year ahead will see more businesses harness packaging as a communication tool, as part of a concentrated effort to further connect both the physical and digital consumer experience. Utilising QR codes, imagery and barcodes to provide unique experiences, exclusive content and information will fast become the norm to elevate brands above competitors, while building customer loyalty.

Accessibility: From making bottles easier to open for those with conditions such as Parkinson’s, to ensuring people who are blind or partially sighted have access to the same information, significant steps are being made to ensure packaging is open to all, regardless of abilities or disabilities.With more calls for accessible packaging to become standard offerings, 2022 will likely be a year of positive change and adaption.