Unboxing the future of packaging design. What’s next?

We headed to Packaging Week 2024 to explore the evolving landscape of packaging design for 2025. Whilst each trend is a direction in its own right, the overarching themes are simplicity, emotional connection, and respite from ever-increasing noise.

Nostalgic Charm

Old meets new as brands tap into nostalgia, blending retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities. Big brands are rediscovering their heritage, reinventing timeless classics to stir emotions and resonate - leading to quick, instinctive decision-making.

Key themes: Youthful, expressive, familiarity 

Credit: PASTIGLIE LEONE // DESIGN BRIDGE & PARTNERS

Empowered Pastels

Soft pastels offer a break from the digital overload. Paired with bold accents like deep charcoal, metallics (gold or silver), or black, to create a powerful contrast.  Layering varying shades of the same pastel adds depth and sophistication and adding neon brightness creates impact. 

Key themes: softness, calm, respite

Credit: UP UP CHOCOLATE // FREYTAG ANDERSON

Quirky Characters

Fun, light-hearted, and approachable, these designs use hand-drawn illustrations to create personable, inclusive brand experiences.
Key themes: Playful, honest, lifestyle-driven.

Credit: TIDEFORD ORGANICS // THE SPACE CREATIVE

Simplification

Less is more. Minimalist designs invite curiosity, allowing consumers to engage at their own pace without overwhelming them. Since our brains naturally seek the path of least resistance, simplicity fosters clearer connections and deeper understanding.

Key themes: Simple, quietly confident, mindful.

Credit: GOOD PHATS // OFFICE OF OVERVIEW

Colourful Escapism

Packaging takes on a fantastical edge with vibrant, eye-catching colours that spark imagination and stand out on shelves.
Key themes: Eccentric, fun, visually striking.

Credit:  AIN’T NORMAL COFFEE // PAVEMENT DESIGN

Decoding the Mind & Emotional Engagement

Brands are harnessing neurodesign to create emotional connections through symbolism and behavioural cues, ensuring consumers remember them instantly and navigate fixtures with ease.
Key themes: Emotional engagement, symbolism, consumer psychology.

Credit: CLOTHES DOCTOR // THE SPACE CREATIVE