Packaging Trends for 2010

Mon December 14, 2009

The economy seems to be poised for recovery in 2010, but improvement figures to come slowly. As a result, manufacturers and distribution centers will continue to scrutinize packaging carefully as they attempt to maximize productivity and minimize cost.

Here are three packaging trends we believe will be top priorities in the coming year.

Packaging Inventory Management

Since the long term and even short term business outlook is uncertain, users of packaging must remain flexible, ready to increase or decrease output on short notice. Just in Time (JIT) inventory and other rapid response programs will continue to be implemented and refined in 2010. Reducing inventory levels are also important for the many operations that are attempting to make due with limited space or are converting warehouse space to manufacturing or packaging activities.

A Careful Approach to Packaging Automation

Given the high packaging show attendance we saw in 2009, interest in packaging automation clearly remains high despite challenging business conditions. Packaging automation solutions that clearly deliver increased productivity will continue to be integrated into existing and new lines, but only after careful scrutiny. Interest in proven technologies such as our Lantech stretch wrappers and other high quality, end-of-line systems draw strong interest. Packaging systems that require little or no capital investment, such as Sealed Air Ultipack and I-Pack, also have great appeal. 

Sustainable Packaging

Despite economic unpredictability, we see one constant continuing forward in 2010: strong interest in sustainable packaging solutions. We advocate an Eco-Sensible™ approach to transitioning to environmentally friendly packaging, taking into account all relevant environmental factors as well as cost, design, and functionality. Ideal packaging solutions must make sense in all respects, particularly in these early stages of economic recovery.