Packaging trends change over time and can deeply impact consumer demand for certain products. For ecommerce business owners, keeping up with these trends is important to ensure that your packaging meets the current consumer expectations for sustainability, environmental responsibility, and efficiency.

In this article, we’ll look at three trends for gift packaging shaping the market in 2023 that will help you stand out as a more eco-friendly business.

1. Recyclable and recycled packaging materials

Recyclable and recycled packaging materials are a huge trend for ecommerce businesses as more people become aware of the impact of waste on the environment, and the sustainability movement gains momentum. By specifying solely materials that can be recycled, you can reduce your business’s carbon footprint and demonstrate to your customers that you are committed to sustainability.

There are many options available for sustainable packaging materials, including paper, cardboard, innovative plant-based substrates derived from mushroom fibres, and even biodegradable plastics. These materials are not only better for the environment, but they also provide equal protection to their nonrecyclable, petrochemical-based alternatives, and can be highly customised to suit your brand identity.

2. Reusable packaging and gift wrap

Another interesting trend shaping the gift packaging market in 2023 is the growth of reusable wrapping and packaging. This started several years ago with the custom of people giving gifts to friends and family in an attractive paper gift bag, rather than directly wrapping the present – with the implicit understanding that the gift bag would be passed on by the recipient as a container for further gifts.

The trend is also being inspired by the Japanese Furoshiki wrapping technique, which uses attractive fabrics and papers to create beautiful, zero waste packaging solutions that are completely unique and personalised.

3. Eco-friendly inks and dyes

It isn’t just the substrates used for packaging that are important for sustainability, but also the inks and dyes used to create patterns and brand designs. Many traditional inks and dyes contain harmful solvents and chemicals that are dangerous for the environment, but fortunately, eco-friendly alternatives derived from vegetable-based pigments are now becoming more widely available.

Sustainable inks and dyes are a strong trend in 2023, and by becoming more conscious in your choice of materials and print suppliers, you can create a more unique packaging experience with a greater commitment to sustainability.

Next steps

Gift packaging is an essential part of the ecommerce experience. To find out more about how to stay on point with your packaging solutions and connect with the changing needs of your customers, please have a look at our Guide to Sustainable Packaging, or Contact us to find out more.