The current packaging landscape, and why it matters
Businesses are dealing with a tough mix of tighter packaging rules, economic pressure, supply chain challenges and rising customer expectations. Getting ahead will come down to smart planning, and packaging has a much bigger role to play than many people realise.
With packaging trends for 2026 in mind, here are the main things businesses need to think about.
Growing regulatory pressure
Schemes like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the Plastic Packaging Tax and Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) are pushing packaging costs up fast. These regulations are designed to improve sustainability, but they also mean businesses need to use more recycled content and make sure packaging is recyclable or reusable to avoid higher fees. On top of that, compliance reporting is increasing the pressure on data collection and systems. Recycled materials are also in higher demand, which is likely to keep prices unpredictable.
UK growth remains slow and customers are feeling the pinch, making them more sensitive to price increases. Add to that the rise in employer National Insurance contributions in 2025, and businesses across the board are facing higher operating costs.
Labour shortages across logistics, manufacturing and retail are reducing flexibility and driving costs up. When time really is money, not having the right people in place can quickly impact productivity and service levels.
Packaging trends to watch in 2026
So, what does all this mean for packaging in 2026? Our experts have identified seven key trends that are set to shape the year ahead.
- Easier-to-recycle packaging and circular design
EPR will have a big impact in 2026, especially through the Recycling Assessment Methodology (RAM), which links fees to how easy packaging is to recycle. As a result, easier-to-recycle packaging and circular design is the first big trend to watch.
- Better packaging data and transparency
In 2026, businesses will need to collect and report more packaging data than ever before. That makes packaging data transparency trend number two.
- Smarter packaging optimisation
Packaging optimisation is our third trend for 2026. Well-designed packaging is increasingly being used as a performance tool, helping businesses work faster, waste less and meet customer expectations.
- Using less packaging overall
As environmental regulations shine a spotlight on how much packaging businesses use, cutting back is becoming a major trend for 2026.
- More powerful packaging automation
Packaging automation continues to grow and will play a big role in 2026. It helps balance productivity, cost control and sustainability, while also futureproofing operations.
- Smarter, more sustainable material choices
Sustainability remains a major driver of packaging decisions, and material selection is becoming more strategic.
Making the most of packaging trends in 2026
Packaging can make a real difference to business performance in 2026. The right approach can help offset rising costs, boost productivity, save space and cut emissions across your supply chain. With regulatory and operational pressure building, acting now is key.
At Sustainable Packaging Scotland, we help businesses navigate change with confidence, backed by expertise across our business.
If you’d like to talk about how these trends could shape your packaging plans for 2026, get in touch to arrange a tailored consultation.
