Dive Brief:
- While sustainability and simplicity will continue to be major packaging trends in the new year, changes are coming for food and food packaging, according to a new report from UK-based design and packaging firm Slice, published on FoodBev Media.
- Crafty nostalgia is expected to extend to artisanal food and beverage producers beyond craft beer brands. Slice also expects brands to embrace artificial intelligence as a way to expand their presence, visibility and interaction with consumers.
- Other packaging trends predicted for 2017 include ceremony; convenience and on-the-go; customization and personalization; and specialty spirits.
Dive Insight:
Trends like customization and personalization or the use of AI for more interactive consumer experiences show how more manufacturers and packaging designers are embracing state-of-the-art technology and big data to be innovative.
These customer-facing, high-tech packaging elements help brands stand out on grocery store shelves. But they also extend brand reach online and to consumers' mobile devices, where brands can better craft customer experiences and foster brand loyalty.
Also key has been the exploration of how to balance appearance — such as crafty nostalgia — with functionality — such as convenient packaging suitable for on-the-go lifestyles. Pursuing both can be challenging and cost-prohibitive, unless brands can devise a packaging element that serves both, such as a decorative handle.