Yes, contract outsourcing is stronger today than ever before. With the growth of e-commerce and the need for efficient and cost-effective packaging solutions, many companies are turning to contract packagers to handle their packaging needs. Contract packagers offer a variety of services, including custom packaging design, sourcing of materials, assembly, and shipping. By outsourcing these services, companies can save on capital expenditures, reduce labor costs, and gain access to specialized expertise and equipment. The contract packaging industry is expected to continue to grow as companies seek more flexible and responsive solutions for their packaging needs.
The growing demand for organic and gluten-free food is driving packaging trends in several ways. Firstly, consumers who seek organic and gluten-free products are often more health-conscious and environmentally aware. This has led to an increased demand for packaging materials that are sustainable and eco-friendly, such as biodegradable and compostable packaging. Additionally, many consumers who purchase organic and gluten-free products are looking for packaging that clearly communicates the product’s health benefits and ingredients, such as labels and packaging that prominently display claims like “organic”, “gluten-free”, and “non-GMO”.
Furthermore, the unique needs of organic and gluten-free products require specialized packaging solutions. For example, gluten-free products often require packaging that prevents cross-contamination with gluten-containing products during production and transportation. Organic products may require packaging that is designed to preserve freshness and extend shelf life without the use of preservatives or additives.
Overall, the growing demand for organic and gluten-free products is driving packaging trends towards more sustainable and eco-friendly materials, as well as innovative packaging solutions that meet the unique needs of these products.
Technology is driving packaging standards as digital processes make gains in the industry. With the rise of e-commerce, there is a growing need for faster and more efficient packaging processes, as well as increased visibility and traceability throughout the supply chain. Digital processes such as automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence are being used to streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve accuracy.
In addition, digital printing technologies are allowing for greater customization and flexibility in packaging design, enabling companies to create personalized packaging that appeals to specific consumer segments. This is particularly important in the food and beverage industry, where packaging can play a key role in branding and differentiation.
Moreover, the use of data analytics and sensors in packaging is allowing companies to gather valuable information about their products, such as temperature and humidity levels, to ensure that they remain safe and fresh during transport and storage. This level of data-driven insight is helping companies to improve their supply chain operations and enhance the overall customer experience.
Overall, technology is driving packaging standards by enabling companies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance product safety and freshness, and create more personalized and effective packaging designs.
Consumer industries are increasingly taking on the issue of packaging waste, driven by growing consumer concern over the environmental impact of single-use packaging. Many companies are exploring ways to reduce waste and improve sustainability in their packaging, such as using recycled materials, optimizing packaging design to minimize material usage, and exploring new packaging technologies. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards more circular systems, where packaging is designed for reuse or recycling rather than disposal.
Some companies are also exploring alternative delivery systems such as refillable containers, reusable packaging, and zero-waste packaging. They are also implementing eco-friendly supply chain practices to reduce carbon emissions and waste.
Many industry groups and organizations are also collaborating to drive change towards sustainable packaging practices. For example, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation launched the New Plastics Economy initiative, which brings together key stakeholders to develop solutions for reducing plastic waste and transitioning to a circular economy. The Sustainable Packaging Coalition and the How2Recycle labeling program are also working to promote more sustainable packaging practices and increase consumer awareness of how to properly recycle packaging materials.
