The global paper packaging market is expected to experience significant growth over the next few years, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.68%. This growth aligns with the increasing importance of sustainability in consumer buying decisions, as 82% of surveyed consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging. Continue reading to explore the key trends shaping this market.

The Psychological Impact of Packaging 

Packaging serves not only a functional purpose but also plays a vital psychological role in influencing consumer perceptions of quality, value, and brand identity.

The Visual Appeal of Packaging Design

The vast majority of consumers agree that packaging design often influences their purchasing decisions. Notably, 30% of businesses report a revenue increase following improvements to their product packaging. Beyond its functional role, product packaging also impacts consumers’ emotions; for instance, color expression in packaging design can help alleviate depressive symptoms in patients with bipolar depression and lower the likelihood of recurrence.

This emotional connection highlights the importance of creativity in packaging, as consumers often make product choices driven by curiosity, which plays a significant role in persuasion. Highly creative cues attract greater attention due to their uniqueness and imaginative qualities, whereas less creative packaging fails to elicit the same degree of curiosity. As a result, the interplay between effective design and emotional engagement can lead to enhanced consumer interest and increased sales.

Read More: Foopak Anchor Plus: Premium Poly-Coated Paperboard for Superior Seafood Packaging

The Role of Material and Finish in Perceived Quality

Alongside visual appeal, the selection of materials plays a critical role in shaping consumer purchasing behavior. As sustainability continues to gain prominence, paper and cardboard packaging are anticipated to dominate the market. Both businesses and consumers increasingly prioritize recyclable, biodegradable, and renewable packaging materials. The growth of online food deliveries, which emphasize eco-friendly packaging options, significantly amplifies this trend. 

Furthermore, paper packaging is highly regarded for its numerous advantages. Specifically, products from Foopak by APP Group are scientifically validated to ensure hygiene and effectively maintain food quality. Additionally, consumers appreciate paper packaging for its lightweight nature and the convenience it offers in terms of ease of opening and storage.

Consumer Trends and Preferences

Consumer trends have shifted, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and the influence of social media reshaping preferences in packaging.

Shifts in Consumer Values

As the rising consumer segment in the market, Gen Z is characterized by a strong commitment to social responsibility, seeking brands that align with these values. This commitment encompasses various issues, including mental health, environmental sustainability, and racial and gender equity, among others. 

Furthermore, research by DS Smith found that four in five UK online shoppers prefer receiving products in cardboard or paper packaging over plastic alternatives. Having been exposed to media highlighting the overwhelming issue of plastic waste, they naturally gravitate towards more sustainable packaging options.

Read More: Biodegradable Food Packaging Trends

Impact of Social Media

Given that approximately two-thirds of the global population utilizing social media and Gen Z spending four or more hours on these platforms daily, it’s no surprise that 76% of consumers have purchased products they encountered online. A notable trend within this sphere is the phenomenon of unboxing products, which has gained immense popularity. Businesses have recognized this trend as a low-cost, high-return marketing tool on TikTok and YouTube, which have garnered over 25 billion views in 2023 alone.

The role of product packaging in these videos is crucial, as it enhances the overall unboxing experience. Insights from a study by Dotcom Distribution reveal the following:

• Over 40% of consumers are more likely to share a product image or video on social media if the packaging is branded. 
• Additionally, 36% of consumers have watched unboxing videos, with 55% of that group making a purchase as a direct result. 

This emphasizes the importance of attractive packaging and engaging content in boosting consumer engagement and sales, especially in a social media-driven market.

Discussing the Impact of Paper Packaging on Buying Decisions

Paper packaging is emerging as the leading material in the packaging market, widely recognized for its eco-friendly attributes. It offers additional marketing advantages, including customization opportunities, lightweight design, and ease of use.

Foopak, a food and beverage paper packaging company under APP Group, provides environmentally friendly packaging solutions that maintain product quality. Foopak products are made from virgin natural fiber, free of harmful compounds, and contain no bacteria, making them a sustainable choice for businesses. Learn more about Foopak here.