General, Sustainable Packaging / June 18, 2018
Cosmetics packaging is a booming industry predicted to approach between $30-40 billion within the next 5 years. Many of the trends in cosmetics packaging and branding follow not only the history of the beauty industry itself, but current consumer demands and interests. This year’s trends to watch reflect the global interests of responsibility, simplicity, and the explosion of online shopping (both for unique brands and more generic commodities).
Recyclable, sustainable, and more responsible packaging and transportation are in high consumer demand, particularly with regard to the spotlight on marine conservation and keeping plastics out of global waterways.
Cosmetics packaging is rising to meet these consumer demands with packaging solutions that can be reused, recycled, or even composted, and that take up less space and weight in shipping and on shelves. Flexible packaging is one solution that can be designed to meet these criteria and deliver a great consumer experience.
A recently popular product labeling trend is minimalism, and it’s made its way into cosmetics packaging as well. Consumers have embraced the simplicity of monochromatic packaging with clear yet minimalist messaging and lots of white space (or the inverse). Simple design is a chic standout amongst the busier designs of competitors.
Cosmetics manufacturers have embraced flexible packaging solutions including bio-based compostable materials and stand-up pouches as alternatives to traditional rigid packaging. With the many benefits of flexible packaging in the cosmetics industry, adoption can be expected to grow significantly.
Online sales aren’t new, but grocery and personal care sales have risen, both in online purchases for shipment and for local delivery. Since consumers can’t interact with the product and its packaging until the product arrives in-hand, manufacturers and retailers are employing creative methods to enhance consumer experience through packaging that is easier to open, implements interactive or augmented reality (AR) experiences, is personalized to build brand loyalty, and incorporates data features (such as RFID) for faster picking and packing—and therefore quicker delivery.
The vital cosmetics industry promises to expand over the next several years, and affords great opportunity for manufacturers to grow their businesses. Capitalize on consumer-embraced trends in every part of the supply chain, including packaging, and buyers will reward you. Ready to explore your packaging solutions? Give us a call or contact us! We’re also exhibiting at Cosmoprof North America in July, booth # 50482, and look forward to seeing you there!