Due to the innovative and collaborative spirit of the flexible packaging industry, pouches have become the fastest-growing packaging segment. In recent years there have been significant developments made to every feature of the package, from increases in sustainability to new interactive consumer features.
Many companies in the industry are working on implementing more active and intelligent packaging, which includes everything from QR codes to temperature indicators to augmented reality. Though use right now is limited, as these technologies become more affordable, more flexible packaging companies, including us here at ePac, are interested in using them to create a deeper consumer experience.
Consumers are interested in sustainability more than ever and the flexible packaging industry is taking notice. With growing interest in recyclable, reusable, and compostable packaging, brands have been finding creative ways to grab the attention of a ‘greener’ consumer base without skimping on convenience. Methods like turning towards single layer packages for recyclability, resealable packages, and bio-based plastics all work towards higher sustainability in the industry, while keeping packages effective and easy to use.
Molson Coors has even won an award for their Grab and Chill Pouch, which replaces the cooler with a resealable bag, good for filling with ice to keep drinks cold again and again. Green Giant has gotten in on the resealable game with their frozen Veggie Spirals, packaged in a semi-rigid rectangular container that cuts out the need for additional dishware. All heating, mixing, and eating can be done right in the package, and all with less plastic waste than a typical frozen dinner.
Nestle and BioLogiQ have both turned their focus toward materials. Nestle has started their move from plastic to paper with their creation of a recyclable paper pouch for Nesquik All Natural powder. BioLogiQ has been going straight to the way plastic is made, moving away from using fossil fuels in plastic creation and toward plant-based biopolymers. Their NuPlastiQ is not only recyclable but when blended is often stronger than the other plastics on their own.
The flexible packaging industry is working to create sustainable packaging solutions while ensuring a more comprehensive consumer experience. To learn more about the future of the industry from experts and brands, follow the link to the full article here.