Shaping the Future of Packaging: Smithers Reveal Market Trends

As Beyondly, alongside leading brands and packaging suppliers, attend London Packaging Week on the 15th and 16th October 2025, the packaging landscape stands at a pivotal point; a key time to reflect on its evolution and look ahead to the future of the ever-changing industry. Celebrating London Packaging Week’s 15th anniversary, Easyfairs, organisers of the event, have partnered with Smithers to publish an exclusive report that unveils both the current and projected trends reshaping the industry. Charlotte Davies (PISEP AssocMCIWM), Beyondly’s Senior Consultant – Resource Efficiency & Circularity, summarises key takeaways from the report, giving businesses an insight into the changing landscape.

1. Packaging’s Resilience and Growth

Despite economic turbulence, the global packaging market remains robust, worth over $1 trillion and with forecasts to reach $1.43 trillion by 2028. This growth is underpinned by rising demand across paper, board, plastics and fibre-based innovations, with moulded pulp gaining traction thanks to its versatility and low EPR fees.

2. E-Commerce Is Reshaping Material Demand

E-commerce has moved from niche to norm, accounting for over 20% of total retail sales in 2025 and driving a $81.6 billion packaging market which is expected to surpass $100 billion by 2028. This shift is fuelling demand for corrugated cardboard (81% share) and flexible food packaging solutions, especially for on-demand delivery platforms like Uber Eats and Deliveroo.

3. Consumer Expectations Are Driving Convenience and Circularity

Urbanisation, solo living, and rising incomes are changing what consumers want. 83% of shoppers now prioritise convenience more than they did five years ago, while 70% expect minimal packaging. This has direct implications for design, with minimal packaging, re-sealability, and material efficiency now fundamental features.

4. Sustainability Is No Longer a Nice-to-Have

Sustainable packaging is now a strategic imperative. The report highlights a growing shift toward low-carbon, recyclable and reusable solutions, particularly in Europe. Brands are integrating post-consumer recycled content, with paper, board and moulded pulp now represent almost 40% of packaging consumption. The sustainability challenge is as much about systems as materials, with calls for better infrastructure, consistent standards, and producer-led design.

5. Policy Pressure Is Reshaping the Packaging Landscape

2025 brings landmark regulation with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) now in force. Coupled with packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) and developing Deposit Return Schemes (DRS), these legislations are rewriting the rules and encouraging change across the industry. They’re not just compliance levers; they’re innovation drivers, pushing industry to reduce virgin material use and rethink product lifecycles.

This year’s London Packaging Week isn’t just about showcasing new ideas, it’s about reimagining packaging as part of a systemic shift towards circularity, equity, and resilience. Beyondly can help you navigate these pressures with informed, forward-thinking strategies: whether that’s advising on sustainable packaging solutions, life-cycle assessments, future-proofing materials, or compliance.

Our team are on stand F92 at London Packaging Week, or you can contact us at [email protected], to speak to our friendly team and discover Beyondly’s full circle solution to packaging compliance and sustainability.

Reference: Packaging Market Trends, Smithers