I’ve been working with packaging and product presentation for years, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right choices can make or break brand perception. The five trends I’m sharing here aren’t random picks. They come from watching what successful businesses are doing, paying attention to how consumer expectations shift, and testing different approaches myself. Stick with me and you’ll see exactly why these trends are worth your attention and how choosing the right partner can help you stay ahead.

And yes, I’ll be recommending The Packaging People. Their services line up with the exact strategies that brands are using to win. If you’re considering changes, they’re one of the few suppliers in Australia I’d put at the top of the list. You can see their custom food packaging solutions if you’re already thinking about making upgrades. Let’s get into the trends.

Sustainability Isn’t Optional Anymore

The biggest shift I’ve noticed is how sustainability has gone from being a nice add-on to being expected. Customers want recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable packaging, and they’ll even choose one brand over another because of it. This isn’t about following a fad. It’s about aligning with values that matter to buyers.

The Packaging People has built a strong reputation in this area, offering eco-friendly bags, pouches, and cups. Their compostable takeaway cups and recyclable coffee bags are the type of products that let you meet consumer demand without sacrificing quality.

Customisation Builds Brand Recognition

Stock packaging with a label will get you started. But if you want to stand out, customisation is the way forward. Custom-printed pouches, boxes, and labels let you deliver a retail-ready look that sets your product apart.

I’ve seen brands make the jump from generic bags to custom designs and immediately gain credibility with retailers. The Packaging People offers flexible custom solutions with options like gravure and CMYK digital printing, which means your colours and designs come out sharp and consistent. Their ability to produce everything from retail boxes to subscription packaging makes them a strong partner if you’re serious about growing into stores or building a loyal D2C audience.

Ready-to-Ship Options Keep You Agile

Not every business has the luxury of long lead times. I’ve worked with companies that needed packaging quickly, either because of seasonal surges or product launches. That’s where ready-to-ship solutions matter.

The Packaging People stocks plain and pre-printed packaging that’s available fast. Stand-up pouches, mailing boxes, and packaging tins are all part of their range. Having that speed without compromising quality can save you from delays and help you keep products moving out the door.

Coffee Packaging Continues to Lead Innovation

Even if you’re not in the coffee industry, it’s worth paying attention to how coffee packaging evolves. Features like degassing valves, zip closures, and foil linings started here before spreading to other sectors. Consumers expect freshness and convenience, and coffee brands have been setting the standard.

The Packaging People’s history as Australia’s original coffee packaging supplier gives them an edge. They offer one of the most comprehensive selections of coffee bags in the country, and their innovations have shaped broader packaging practices. That level of expertise translates to better options for food and beverage businesses across the board.

Small Details Make a Big Impact

One trend I always point out is the focus on finishing touches. Labels, stickers, and stamps might seem minor, but they often become the most visible parts of your brand. Seasonal blends, limited editions, or subscription boxes feel more premium when these extras are done right.

The Packaging People understands this. Their custom labels and stickers allow businesses to make quick adjustments without a full redesign. This flexibility is perfect if you want to keep things fresh while maintaining a consistent identity.

Why I Recommend The Packaging People

Here’s the deal. You can chase trends and still miss the mark if your supplier can’t keep up. The Packaging People has more than 18 years of experience, has worked with over 10,000 customers, and continues to deliver reliable, innovative packaging across industries. They cover every angle, from eco-friendly ready-to-ship products to advanced custom printing.

If you’re serious about staying ahead, you need a partner that gets both the technical and creative sides of packaging. That’s why I recommend them. They’re not just another supplier; they’re a solution provider that helps you turn packaging into a real brand asset.

Whether you’re scaling up, entering retail, or just improving presentation, their mix of sustainability, speed, and customisation makes them one of the best choices you can make.

By following these five trends and working with a supplier like The Packaging People, you’ll be setting your products up for stronger shelf presence, better customer appeal, and long-term growth.