Sustainability, E-Commerce and Premiumization: Reshaping Beverage Secondary Packaging Innovation

Sustainability continues to reshape innovation in beverage secondary packaging.

International Packaging Information Network

Beverage manufacturers, under scrutiny over single-use plastics, are pursuing new ways to reduce secondary packaging.

Packaging formats have shifted notably in recent years as consumers gravitate toward more sustainable options. Compared with plastic rings and shrink film, fiber-based packaging is favored by the sustainability trend. Experts say fiber packaging can meet sustainability goals while delivering a premium look and feel.

Strategies vary among companies focused on secondary packaging: some seek lowest-fiber, lowest-cost options, while others use this moment to move toward fiber packaging. Supplying consumer-ready sustainable fiber packaging is a global trend.

Major beverage brands have pledged to cut secondary use of single-use plastics, including AB InBev’s Corona.

Corona introduced a sustainable multi-pack for bottled beer.

The pack is made from surplus barley straw. A unique pulping process, combined with recycled wood fiber, produces paperboard material for packaging.

The material is as strong and durable as conventional packaging, yet it requires less water than traditional virgin wood production while also cutting energy use and chemicals.

According to reports, the first six-packs using this material will be piloted in Colombia.

Later this year, the format will also launch in Argentina.

After a successful pilot, AB InBev will consider extending the technology to other brands.

As beverage manufacturers work to reduce single-use plastics, experts expect this focus to keep moving through the wider secondary packaging market.

“I expect this focus will certainly continue. Companies need to look further for new alternatives that align with consumer expectations.”

Although sustainability is a driving force in secondary packaging, experts note other factors are shaping future innovation. These include the rise of e-commerce for consumer goods. But e-commerce growth may conflict with the sustainability measures brands want to implement.

Beyond e-commerce, experts point to consumer demand for customization and premium products as another influence on secondary packaging. Premiumization and customization will remain drivers, with more attention on personalization, uniqueness and experience.

The pandemic has also had an impact, making cleanliness and protection important factors.

A study titled 'The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Consumer Attitudes toward Packaging' found that safety is influential in secondary packaging.

In summary, sustainability, e-commerce, premiumization and other factors are further driving innovation.

—This article is reprinted from China Packaging Network (pack.cn). Original link: http://news.pack.cn/show-379057.html