Packaging / Advertising & Office

For beverage manufacturers, the conversation around single-use plastics is driving them to find new ways to reduce the use of secondary packaging.

Packaging formats have changed significantly in recent years as consumers gravitate towards more sustainable solutions. Sustainability favors fiber packaging solutions over plastic rings and shrink wrap. When it comes to secondary packaging, experts point out that fibrous packaging solutions can be sustainable while offering a high-end look and feel.

For those companies focused on secondary packaging, some are looking for the lowest fiber, lowest cost solution, while others are looking to take the opportunity to switch to fiber packaging. The push to provide sustainable, fibrous packaging products suitable for consumer use is a global trend.

The beverage industry has seen some major brands announce their commitment to reducing the use of single-use plastics, including Anheuser-Busch InBev's Corona brand.

In March, Corona launched a sustainable six-pack of beer packs made from excess barley straw. Through a unique pulping process, combined with 100% recycled wood fibers, this packaging cardboard material is created. It is as strong and durable as regular packaging but uses 90% less water than the traditional virgin wood production process, while also reducing energy consumption and chemicals. According to reports, in March, the first 10,000 six-packs using the material will be piloted in Colombia and will be launched in Argentina later this year. Following the successful completion of the pilot, AB InBev will consider the possibility of rolling out the technology to other brands.

As beverage manufacturers grapple with the reduction of single-use plastics, experts expect this to continue to penetrate the entire secondary packaging market. "I expect this focus will definitely continue. There is a need for businesses to look further for new alternatives that are in line with the consumer vision."

While sustainability is a driving force affecting the secondary packaging market, experts point out that other factors are influencing future innovation in this field. These include the rise of e-commerce for consumer goods. But the rise of e-commerce can conflict with the various sustainability measures brands want to implement.

In addition to the impact of e-commerce, experts also pointed out that consumer demand for customized and high-end products also has an impact on the secondary packaging market. Premiumization and customization will continue to be the drivers, with an increasing focus on personalization, exclusivity and experience.

The epidemic also has an impact on this, so cleaning/protection is also an important factor. A study titled "The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Consumer Attitudes to Packaging" found that safety plays a role in secondary packaging.

All in all, factors such as sustainability, e-commerce, premiumisation are driving innovation further.