Trend watch: Top 7 types of packaging materials that are industry favorites today
The global packaging market is one of the fastest-growing economic segments today. In India, too, the packaging industry — worth over $917 billion in 2019 — is growing at a CAGR of 2.8% and is expected to hit the $1.05 trillion mark by 2024. If your business operates in this dynamic market segment, it is imperative that you remain aware of what’s driving the packaging sector and what your peers are doing.
One such essential trend to watch is what packaging materials are the industry favorites in the current scenario. Here’s a closer look at the seven most common packaging materials businesses use today.
1. Paperboard boxes
Boxes made of paper and paperboard are among the most common types of packaging used today. Paperboard is available in different varieties like kraft paper and SBS paperboard. It is typically preferred by businesses in the food and beverage industry, although paper packing is also standard in transporting electronics, cosmetics, chemicals and even heavy goods.
2.Corrugated boxes
Valued at $70 billion in 2022, the corrugated packaging market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry. Since most corrugated boxes are entirely recyclable, this is one of our most sustainable packaging options. Corrugated packaging is suitable for various products like food, textiles, electronics, healthcare goods and more.
3.Plastic packaging
Plastic packaging is everywhere, from bottles and boxes to cups and bags. Data shows us that the global plastic packaging market is growing at a CAGR of 4.2% today. Despite this, plastic remains a global concern since it is highly unsustainable. It is why many companies prioritise using plastic-free packaging, or at the very least, recyclable plastic.
4.Rigid box packaging
A tad bit more luxurious than corrugated boxes and paperboard packaging, rigid boxes are around four times thicker. So, they are typically preferred for premium products like mobile phones, jewelry, watches, expensive electronics and other luxury goods. In addition to being sustainable, rigid boxes also offer superior product protection and brand value addition.
5.Metal packaging
The growth of e-commerce and retail, the rise in global Predominantly used in the food and beverage industry, metal packaging can be sustainable depending on the material used. Aluminum tops the list of sustainable metal packaging since it is easy to recycle and results in minimal wastage. Tin is also another sustainable packaging option in this category.
6.Glass packaging
Glass is also a sustainable choice for businesses looking to switch to plastic-free packaging. Best suited for premium food and beverage products, glass packaging is also preferred for other products like chemicals, medicines, cosmetics and more. But, on the flip side, it is pretty expensive and fragile.
7.Flexible packaging
Due to its ease and convenience, flexible packaging is quickly becoming one of the industry’s most preferred types of packaging. This kind of packaging is cost-effective, and rescues waste. It is made from pliable materials like paper, foil, coated paperboard or polymer films.
What packaging materials are you choosing today?
There’s no denying that it’s easy to opt for the most common packaging materials in the market. However, sustainable options like plastic-free and recyclable packaging are the need of the hour. And businesses keen on remaining at the top of the game over the long run need to strike the right balance between what’s easy and what’s right.
A competent packaging solutions provider like Moglix can help you make the right choice with innovative and competitive primary, secondary and tertiary packaging solutions. Visit our website to know more.
