Consumer Preferences: Trends Driving Packaging Design and Functionality

Transformative trends, innovative designs, and functionality mark today’s packaging realm. Modern trends influence the consumer’s preferences, right?  Selection of sustainable material to ease of use, minimalist designs, and transparent information about a brand matter a lot to stay competitive in the market.

As per the survey, 52% of consumers are likely to make repeat purchases because of premium quality packaging. In the past year, 2023 the product packaging design service market estimated value is $24.63 billion. Also, hopefully, expected to reach $32.42 billion in 2030. 

In this complete guide, we will explore customer preference, design, and functionality that drive packaging trends. 

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Material

Approximately, 50% of consumers in the USA are willing to pay more for ecological packaging stuff. In addition, globally, 68% of consumers prefer plant-based and natural packaging to promote sustainability.

When it comes to comparing traditional goods with the most recent designs and materials, environmental awareness the average growth is 2.7x faster due to customers’ preference. It means consumers value sustainable material products or packaging 2.7 times faster than common or traditional goods.

Ease of Use and Functionality

Consumers like packaging most which offers convenience and ease of use. Products with easy-to-use features and designs are more favored by trend-conscious customers. In flexible and functional packaging gable boxes, tear-off openings, tray styles, ribbon closures, and resealable zipper bags are the most demanding. According to market research, 80% of packaging functionally is the main force behind packaging demands and driving sales. On the flip side, functional packaging helps to make your brand product stand out on store shelves.

Minimalist Design and Clarity

A survey in 2018 declared that 72% of American consumers make purchasing decisions just because of visual appeal and attractive looks. However, 67% said that durable material and its variety did it. Remember, a product packaging design plays a crucial role in attracting a huge customer base. How? The reason is that your packaging design is the first thing that customers see while looking for something online stores or retail. So, your design must be minimalist and clear to customers.

Customisation Freedom

Customisation is a way to satisfy a vast customer base. Customisation options help to follow the trends with small innovations and modifications. 60% of consumers are willing to pay for premium quality packaging that is not only attractive but also hot in trend. collection of durable materials like (cardboard, corrugated, Kraft, and rigid) to multiple patterns and shapes everything falls into customizing options.  With tailored packaging design you can stay up-to-date in the market and excite

Attractive Typography and Visuals

Graphics and attractive imagery provoke the customers to buy and stay ahead in trendy packaging. The use of eye-catching colours, images, and colour psychology creates a sense of sophistication and elegance. A study indicates that 90% of customers are influenced by visuals and typography which leads to an increase the 40% of brand sales and promotes brand growth as well.

Occasional Themes to Boost Emotional Connection

The most effective way to retain your packaging on the top is by offering occasional themes. Incorporating different themes not only makes your packaging even more visible but also lets you modify it according to the event. For example, you can create two occasional themes in a batch such as “Christmas and New Year”. It is a smart way to build an emotional connection with the customer and match their preferences. With research, it is suggested that product packaging with occasional and seasonal themes increases 30% of consumer’s preference.

Modern Styles Along with Diverse Dimension

Beyond patterns, imagery, and colors selection of modern styles with the exact dimensions also counts to maximise the consumer’s preference.  An average said that 85% of customers are impressed with just the styles and overall look of the packaging, while 50% purchase it because of the right and user-friendly dimension. Window to capture attention, cutout to give a glimpse, gable for the easy carrier, and tray for a luxurious touch are some main styles.

Multi-Functional Packaging

Functionality also plays a crucial role in boosting consumers’ preferences. How? Consumers expect packaging more than a shield of product that protects it. They want multi-functional packaging which not only looks great but also serves as a marketing tool. Further, packaging must be easy to carry, hold, store, and offer re-usability too. All these features, lead to an increase of 35% in sales volume.

Summary

Trends driving packaging design and functionality matter a lot to raise consumer preference. Yes, Eco-friendly and sustainable materials to ease of use and functionality of packaging cheer the consumers. Plus, minimalist design, customisation freedom, attractive typography, occasional themes, and visuals are vital to boost emotional connection. Lastly, modern styles along with diverse dimensions and multi-functional packaging help to boost 75% – 85% sales volume.