Packaging trends in 2024
10/01/2024

The wide variety of packaging options available in the market enables companies to securely ship and store products. However, this process results in a substantial volume of waste, posing challenges for both companies and consumers. In an environment where optimization is crucial, there is a constant need to seek alternatives.

This quest is driven by various factors, ranging from environmental considerations to the drive for excellence, research, and innovation – principles guiding companies like Inviker in providing solutions to ensure the integrity of our customers’ products during storage and transportation.

Amid the overwhelming amount of information, new regulations, and demands from companies and consumers, we have identified key points that we believe will set the tone in the packaging sector this year.

Current trends in industrial packaging

Currently, materials such as kraft paper and cardboard are positioned as leading choices, presented as sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. However, it is essential to question whether this perception holds in the long term and what the real impact of these choices is.

C1 papel kraft embalaje industrial
D2 plastico de baja densidad zoom

On the other hand, plastic, in its various forms, remains a protagonist in industrial packaging, as the protection requirements for goods often surpass what paper can offer. Although plastic has faced criticism in recent years, numerous studies and experts highlight its potential as a reusable and sustainable material, provided it is managed appropriately.

In this context, the recyclability of materials and, more importantly, their capacity for reusability are crucial aspects. The concept of the 3Rs – reduce, reuse, and recycle – is gaining momentum, necessitating a reconsideration of our packaging choices based on their lifecycle and long-term impact.

Nuevos materiales

Many companies and startups are directing their efforts towards finding materials that minimise their environmental impact, embracing eco-design for the creation of ecological packaging materials.

Algae

In companies like Futuralga, research is underway on the use of seaweed. Although these solutions are currently more oriented towards the food sector, over time and with research, they could extend to the industrial sphere.

algas

However, for their applicability in the industrial packaging sector, profitability must be improved, given that cost competition is crucial in this sector.

Fungi

Packaging based on fungi, developed by Ecovative in 2010 using mycelium technology, stands out as a plant-based material with exceptional potential. Completely natural and compostable, its cultivation in controlled environments can be reduced to just one week.

Its most distinctive feature is the speed of its decomposition, requiring only 30 days. Moreover, it stands out as a reusable material when kept dry, offering an additional advantage in sustainable packaging management.

This innovative material also brings notable environmental benefits, including the reduction of marine waste and carbon emissions, estimated at an impressive 90% less. Additionally, the production process consumes less energy.

hongos

In 2019, IKEA introduced this fungi-based material as part of its initiative to reduce the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging. This approach not only contributes to eliminating plastic, especially in smaller products but also represents a significant step towards more sustainable practices in the packaging industry.

Agave

The production of paper from agave fibres, a plant native to Mexico, is an ancient technique that has been used for centuries. Currently, through an innovative process, a robust and versatile paper is obtained.

agave

Considered an ecological and sustainable material, agave requires less water and pesticides in its cultivation compared to other plants used in the paper industry. Although the reality in places like Madagascar, where forests are destroyed to clear fields for this raw material to meet demand in Western countries, must be taken into account.

Despite this, agave paper is becoming an increasingly popular trend in the printing and packaging industry.

Water-soluble materials

Often, products need protective filling in their packaging. This is where void filling chips or packaging peanuts made from water-soluble materials come into play.

These packaging materials, made from polyvinyl alcohol, a non-toxic and odourless substance, take on a gelatinous consistency when in contact with water. In a matter of hours, the molecular bonds break, allowing complete dissolution in sewer water. Their biodegradable nature facilitates processing in water treatment stations.

Water-soluble bags are already used to store and transport dry construction materials, such as cement. Designed to dissolve during the mixing process, the packaging fibre simply integrates into the product.

Monoproducts and monomaterials

In the ever-evolving packaging sector, a growing trend is the adoption of monoproducts and monomaterials, marking a shift towards optimisation and sustainability.

The use of monoproducts seeks to unify packaging to streamline both acquisition and storage in businesses. In the realm of industrial packaging, this trend translates to a preference for a single supplier capable of guaranteeing and supplying various packaging options, contributing to more efficient and simplified management.

On the other hand, monomaterials are directly associated with sustainability, playing a crucial role in reducing industrial waste. The use of these packagings aims to facilitate recyclability, meeting growing environmental demands.

In this same context, the importance of customised packaging arises, becoming a strategic ally to reduce costs and minimise environmental impact.

A study by DS Smith addresses the “empty space economy”, highlighting that 24% of transport containers are empty, generating a considerable financial impact. The solution to this problem begins with the implementation of custom packaging, requiring effective design of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging, from planning to application.

The customisation of packaging not only addresses the specific needs of products but also contributes to maximising space and minimising waste, addressing both economic and environmental concerns.

Technological advances

Regarding technology, it emerges as a key driver of innovation, transforming the way we conceive and apply packaging solutions, paving the way for automation and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and reduce human errors.

Automation and AI

Automation has made a significant impact on the packaging sector. The trend leans towards intelligent systems capable of automatically identifying the size and shape of products. This approach not only saves time but also contributes to waste reduction, streamlining the packaging process.

The implementation of AI software in these processes cuts costs and enhances productivity by automating repetitive tasks and optimising efficiency throughout the supply chain.

The adaptation of industrial packaging products to new demands is also a constant. For instance, in the realm of pallet wrapping, there is a shift from manual to automatic stretch film, seeking to improve efficiency in the process.

Traceability and security

Traceability has become a fundamental element. The ability to monitor the journey of products throughout the entire supply chain is essential to ensuring the quality and safety of products, especially in sectors like food. Technology provides complete visibility, enabling companies to respond quickly and effectively to any incidents.

The integration of advanced technologies, such as sensors and QR codes, is transforming logistical processes. The trend towards the development of intelligent packaging aims to provide real-time information about the product’s status.

This not only enhances traceability but also enriches the user experience by providing relevant and updated data about products and their journey.

Hyper-personalisation and future challenges

With the growing integration of AI in our environments and new forms of communication, hyper-personalisation emerges as a necessity. While its practical application in the packaging sector is yet to be determined, we already observe an adaptation in warehouse automation, which may require restructuring and standardisation in various aspects.

These technological advancements not only optimise existing processes but also open new possibilities for innovation in the packaging sector.

At Inviker, we identify and highlight the key trends shaping the future of packaging in 2024:

Sustainability

The ongoing search, innovation, and development of new materials with a lower environmental impact are crucial in the evolution of packaging. Exploring options like mushroom-based packaging, algae, and water-soluble materials reflects the overall commitment to more sustainable practices.

Optimisation

The trend towards monoproducts and monomaterials, along with the consolidation of suppliers, underscores the importance of optimising both the acquisition and storage of packaging. In the realm of industrial packaging, these practices contribute to more efficient and streamlined management, aligning with continuous improvement goals.

Automation

Standardisation and the adoption of materials designed for automated packaging are critical in a world where operational efficiency is key.

Personalisation

The growing importance of personalisation in packaging is evident through advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies enable solutions tailored to the specific needs of products and customers.

The constant evolution of these trends in packaging and logistics demands ongoing adaptation from companies. Those investing in innovative packaging, adopting optimisation practices, and implementing cost-saving strategies not only enhance operational efficiency but also build solid foundations for long-term growth.

Ready to transform your packaging? Contact us for personalised solutions.