Industry Insights: Top Trends in Packaging 2026

This report examines the upcoming top trends that are shaping the packaging world. It investigates how new regulations, evolving consumer demands, and market developments are shaping the future of packaging.

This report provides an overview of major packaging regulation announcements across the world, from the new EU PPWR to state-level regulation updates in the US. From these regulation announcements, five trends have emerged: smart packaging, biobased packaging, hyper-personalized packaging with AI, mono-materials, and refillables and reusables.

Report Scope

• Packaging is becoming digitally enabled, helping brands improve traceability and freshness while giving consumers clearer information and safer products.
• The use of renewable, plant-based materials reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers the environmental impact of packaging.
• Companies are using AI to tailor packaging design and messaging and to offer more individualized products.
• Packaging structures are being simplified into single materials to improve recyclability and the efficiency of waste processing.
• Players are encouraging the use of refilling to reduce single-use packaging waste and overall material consumption.

Reasons to Buy

• Identify future potential commercial applications for emerging concepts in packaging.
• Understand the relevant consumer trends, attitudes, and market drivers that drive and support innovation success so you can tap into what is really impacting the industry.
• Gain a broader appreciation of the fast-moving consumer goods industry by gaining insights from both within and outside of your sector.
• Access valuable strategic take-outs to help direct future decision-making and inform new product development.