2011年5月12日 星期四

Top ten trends for 2011


As we approach the close of 2010, Packaging Magazine predicts some of the trends and changes facing the industry for 2011.

1)      Importance of design: As the part that communicates directly with the consumer, the importance of design should never be underestimated. Understanding the market and understanding the customer you are trying to attract is a key.
2)      Life cycle analysis: Demand is increasing for manufacturers to consider environmentally friendly practices for every facet of their operation. Energy saving, water saving, material reduction, recyclability are just a few of the considerations involved with a LCA.
3)      The robotic age: Automated technology is improving all the time and with post-GFC companies’ alert to methods of lowering costs while upping production, robots are becoming an increasingly familiar feature in the packaging process.
4)      Digital printing: Individual customization, shorter production runs, flexibility and rapid turnaround are just a few of the benefits of digital printing. Digital printing has been gathering momentum for a few years and 2011 will see in an increase in versatility and application.
5)      Shrinking packaging: less is more in packaging, with thinning, lightening and generally reducing of packaging materials.
6)      Labeling revolution:  An overhaul of food labeling policy will take place in 2011, which will probably result in dramatic changes to the labeling process.
7)      RFID tagging: tracking products across the supply chain is taking off in a big way. It provides security and authenticity and will become a common feature of the labeling of products.
8)      Portion size: Consumers are demanding a great choice when it comes to portion size – the packaging industry will need to be flexible enough to adapt to these changes.
9)      Disposability and recyclability: With a number of new bio-plastics and paperboard products appearing on the market and an increasing push for glass bottles, 2011 will see a great drive towards biodegradable and recyclable packaging products.
10)  Customization: Companies are beginning to ask more of packaging manufacturers, particularly for unique, customized designs.