We live in an experience economy. Today's consumers are not only driven by aesthetic appeal but also by the overall experience offered by a product or Brand.

We live in an experience economy. Today's consumers are not only driven by aesthetic appeal but are captivated by the overall experience a product or Brand offers. When it comes to packaging design, whether it's arriving directly at a customer's doorstep or viewed on a store shelf, it plays a significant role in the overall experience people have with your Brand. Clearly, the growing demand for meaningful and interactive consumer moments is shaping the world of packaging design.

 

Interactive Packaging

Crafting a packaging experience is all about appealing to the senses in different ways, and packaging trends are doing just that. Interactive or “smart” packaging serves a dual purpose—it aims to delight and engage the customer. By creating additional functionalities or Applications for the packaging, you encourage consumers to interact with your Brand beyond just the unboxing experience.

This multi-purpose trend can take many forms. From packaging that transforms into a functional or playful object (such as a puzzle), or materials that engage the senses in innovative ways—like smell or touch—to sustainably-conscious labels and seed-containing, plantable paper packaging.

Even the unassuming quick response QR code can be a great way to add a digital interactive layer to packaging design.

 

High Contrast

With consumer attention more sought-after than ever, the visual experience of packaging design remains just as important as the interactive one—and this next trend is a striking one on our list.

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Over the past few years, with consumers celebrating joyful moments in their everyday lives, “dopamine dressing” and “dopamine decorating” have become regular vocabulary in our lexicon. We will see this increasingly influence how Brands appeal to consumers seeking that extra spark of joy in what they buy.

The high contrast packaging trend takes a “more is more” approach to packaging design. It leverages the striking juxtaposition of angular shapes, mismatched patterns, and bright, highly saturated color palettes to create a purposeful clash of creative elements. This style is perfect for Brands with a bold, playful personality that wants to make a confident and impactful impression.

 

Understated Yet Luxurious

When it comes to creating memorable experiences through packaging, not everything has to be loud or flashy. In 2024, there will also be a trend of Brands opting for an understated yet luxurious packaging style, aiming to create appeal and intentional subtle design choices throughout the unboxing process. Similar to the interactive packaging trend, it's all about creating little moments of discovery that keep consumers engaged and appreciating the design longer than usual.