Uncover Key Packaging Insights for 2025 & Beyond

The packaging industry leverages advanced technologies to address challenges like material waste, supply chain inefficiencies, and product tampering. This data-driven report provides packaging insights for the future, focusing on how industry leaders are adopting cutting-edge solutions. AI-driven automation, big data, analytics, and CleanTech transform packaging operations, while blockchain enhances supply chain transparency. For instance, Vault Security Systems offers blockchain-based solutions to manage supply chain integrity and prevent counterfeits.

Connectivity technologies, such as NFC and RFID, enable real-time product monitoring. Leveraging these technologies, Manufact’s smart seals incorporate tamper-evident features. Robotics and nanotechnology also improve packaging precision and durability. Further, cloud computing and internet of things (IoT) enhance operational efficiency by integrating data and systems. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications create immersive customer experiences and new ways to interact with products. As these technologies reshape the industry, decision-makers must adopt them swiftly to remain competitive and meet consumer demands.

Why should you read this report?

• Gain in-depth insights into the top 10 emerging packaging technologies
• Learn about three practical use cases for each technology
• Meet 10 innovative startups advancing these technologies

Key Takeaways

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
   • Use Cases:
     • Automated Quality Control
     • Supply Chain Optimization
     • Predictive Maintenance
   • Startup to Watch: EyePick
2. Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)
   • Use Cases:
     • Virtual Prototype Visualization
     • Machinery Training
     • Enhanced Customer Experience
   • Startup to Watch: Meetpack
3. Big Data & Analytics
   • Use Cases:
     • Consumer Behavior Analytics
     • Supply Chain Analysis
     • Efficiency Optimization
   • Startup to Watch: Real Time Intelligence
4. Blockchain
   • Use Cases:
     • Packaging Traceability
     • Anti-counterfeiting Measures
     • Sustainable Sourcing Verification
   • Startup to Watch: Vault Security Systems
5. CleanTech
   • Use Cases:
     • Sustainable Material Development
     • Energy-efficient Production
     • Waste Reduction and Recycling
   • Startup to Watch: Suppli
6. Cloud Computing
   • Use Cases:
     • Collaborative Design & Prototyping
     • Supply Chain Management
     • Customer Relationship Management
   • Startup to Watch: Pacdora
7. Connectivity Technologies
   • Use Cases:
     • Connected Machinery
     • Interactive Consumer Engagement
     • Real-time Shipment Tracking
   • Startup to Watch: Manufact
8. Internet of Things (IoT)
   • Use Cases:
     • Inventory Management
     • Smart Labeling and Tracking
     • Quality Control
   • Startup to Watch: reo
9. Advanced Robotics
   • Use Cases:
     • Robotic Packaging Systems
     • Automated Sorting and Handling
     • Palletizing Robots
   • Startup to Watch: Tuva Makine
10. Nanotechnology
    • Use Cases:
      • Smart Packaging
      • Antimicrobial Packaging
      • Enhanced Barrier Properties
    • Startup to Watch: VERDE Nanomaterials

Packaging Industry FAQs

How big is the packaging industry?

The global packaging industry is valued at approximately USD 1.14 trillion as of 2024. It is projected to reach around USD 1.38 trillion by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.89%. Factors like the surge in eCommerce, increasing urbanization, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability drive this growth.

What is the future of packaging?

Emerging technologies and changing consumer expectations shape the future of packaging. Sustainability initiatives, such as zero-waste and carbon-neutral packaging, are gaining prominence. The integration of smart technologies like IoT devices and augmented reality enhances interactive consumer experiences.

Moreover, personalization through digital printing is increasing, and AI-driven automation is improving efficiency. Innovative materials like nanomaterials and edible packaging are under development, while stricter regulations are enhancing safety and environmental responsibility.

How We Identify Emerging Technologies & Startups

The data in this report originates from StartUs Insights’ Discovery Platform, covering 4.7+ million global startups, scaleups, and technology companies, alongside 20K+ emerging technology trends. Our platform makes startup and technology scouting, trend intelligence, and patent searches more efficient by providing deep insights into the technological ecosystem.

Utilizing the trend intelligence feature, we analyze industry-specific technologies for this report, detect patterns and trends, and identify use cases along with the startups advancing these areas. Further details and capabilities are accessible via the website.

10 Emerging Technologies Impacting the Future of Packaging [2025 & Beyond]

1. Artificial Intelligence

AI is transforming the packaging industry by leveraging machine learning for real-time quality control, identifying defective products, and reducing waste. In packaging design, AI-driven computer vision ensures precise label placement and customization to create packaging that meets specific customer preferences. Predictive analytics further optimize the supply chain by forecasting demand and managing inventory levels. AI also supports sustainability by analyzing environmental data to allow companies to select materials that reduce waste and lower carbon emissions to improve the ecological footprint of packaging.

3 Practical Use Cases of Artificial Intelligence in Packaging:

• Automated Quality Control: AI-driven computer vision systems enhance packaging quality control by detecting defects, imperfections, and misprints in real-time to ensure consistent product quality and reduced waste.
• Supply Chain Optimization: AI-powered predictive analytics streamline packaging supply chains by forecasting demand fluctuations, optimizing inventory levels, and improving transportation efficiency thus minimizing bottlenecks.
• Predictive Machine Maintenance: AI-powered predictive maintenance tools analyze equipment performance data, identifying potential issues before they cause downtime. This ensures uninterrupted packaging operations and extends the machine’s lifespan.

Startup to Watch: EyePick

French startup EyePick develops AI-driven robotic systems for sorting and packing processes. Its technology uses computer vision and robotics to identify, handle, and pack various products, including fragile or irregular items, with precision and speed. The system offers features such as real-time weight optimization, minimizing surplus, and ensuring accurate product placement. It also integrates 3D vision and soft-gripper technology, adapting to different shapes and sizes. EyePick’s solution enhances operational efficiency and benefits industries seeking automated packaging solutions that reduce waste and increase throughput.

2. Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality

AR technologies let consumers interact with packaging by overlaying digital content, such as 3D product visualizations or tutorials, onto physical products. This improves customer experience and allows brands to provide additional information, like sustainability details, without printed materials. On the development side, VR transforms the design phase by enabling packaging teams to visualize and test prototypes in realistic virtual environments, reducing development time and material costs.

3 Practical Use Cases of AR & VR in Packaging:

• Virtual Prototype Visualization: AR and VR technologies enable designers to create and visualize packaging prototypes in immersive 3D environments. This allows real-time adjustments and reduces the need for physical materials.
• Machinery Training: VR offers an interactive, risk-free environment for machinery training in packaging operations that allows employees to practice using complex equipment without halting production.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: AR enriches customer engagement by offering interactive features, such as product visualizations, tutorials, or personalized experiences directly from the packaging to foster deeper connections with the brand.

Startup to Watch: Meetpack

Spanish startup Meetpack develops a virtual reality platform enabling businesses to design, visualize, and test their packaging solutions within a simulated environment. For this solution, the startup leverages VR and customizable templates to create 3D models of packaging designs that allow businesses to interact with and modify their concepts in real-time. The platform features real-time collaboration tools, interactive simulations, and comprehensive analytics, which optimizes packaging for functionality, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Meetpack streamlines the packaging development process and reduces time-to-market.

3. Big Data & Analytics

Big data and analytics allow companies to gather insights from large datasets, including consumer behavior, supply chain dynamics, and environmental impacts. These insights enable businesses to tailor packaging to market demands, optimize material usage, and improve operational efficiency. Real-time data analytics provides immediate feedback on production performance for rapid adjustments to reduce downtime and enhance quality control.

3 Practical Use Cases of Big Data & Analytics in Packaging:

• Consumer Behavior Analytics: Big data and analytics allow packaging companies to understand consumer preferences and behavior in terms of packaging design and marketing strategies, ensuring their strategy resonates with their target audiences.
• Supply Chain Analysis: Big data improves supply chain efficiency by analyzing large datasets and offering real-time insights into inventory levels, transportation routes, and supplier performance to reduce costs and improve delivery accuracy.
• Efficiency Optimization: Advanced analytics optimize packaging operations by predicting equipment failures, reducing downtime, and improving resource allocation across production processes.

Startup to Watch: Real Time Intelligence

US startup Real Time Intelligence offers eP360, a platform that collects and processes returnable packaging data using sensor-based technology. It tracks inventory locations, localizes assets, and links products with packaging to monitor shrinkage and spoilage. The startup’s platform provides insights to identify problem areas and remove the need for manual data sifting. eP360 automates tracking processes and uses advanced data analytics to improve supply chain visibility and accountability. This way, Real Time Intelligence enables businesses to reduce returnable transport items (RTI) losses, cut labor costs for rerouting containers, and enhance forecasts with accurate data.

4. Blockchain

Blockchain, a type of distributed ledger, through smart contracts, improves tracking and verification processes. In the packaging industry for example, they can ensure that all materials, from raw sourcing to final delivery, are traceable and meet sustainability standards. Blockchain’s decentralized structure securely records every transaction along multiple points in the packaging process to reduce fraud risk and enhance efficiency. Smart contracts further automate various logistics and compliance tasks to minimize human error and cut operational costs.

3 Practical Use Cases of Blockchain in Packaging:

• Packaging Traceability: Creating an immutable, decentralized ledger records each step in the supply chain through blockchain, allowing stakeholders to track the journey of products from origin to destination in real-time.
• Anti-Counterfeiting Measures: Blockchain provides a tamper-proof system that verifies the authenticity of products to ensure that only genuine items reach end-consumers.
• Sustainable Sourcing Verification: Offering transparent and verifiable blockchain records of materials used in packaging enables companies to prove their commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices.

Startup to Watch: Vault Security Systems

Swiss startup Vault Security Systems offers blockchain-based solutions for supply chain management and counterfeit prevention. It utilizes distributed ledger technology (DLT) to create immutable records of product authenticity. The startup’s technology also features asset tracking and container monitoring options to simplify the tracing of products at every stage of packaging and distribution. Vault Security thereby enhances supply chain efficiency and reduces risks such as theft and fraud.

5. CleanTech

Biodegradable materials like polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and algae-based plastics offer fully biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics, with applications in food packaging and as shipping materials. Other eco-friendly innovations such as biodegradable inks and coatings improve the environmental footprint of packaging without sacrificing durability or aesthetics. Further, active and intelligent packaging technologies, which integrate sensors for real-time product monitoring, also promote sustainability by extending product shelf life and reducing waste.

3 Practical Use Cases of CleanTech in Packaging:

• Sustainable Material Development: The creation of biodegradable and recyclable materials reduces the environmental impact of packaging while enhancing sustainability efforts.
• Energy-Efficient Production: Advancements in CleanTech reduce energy consumption in packaging manufacturing by implementing more efficient production processes and renewable energy sources.
• Waste Reduction and Recycling: CleanTech supports circular economy models by introducing advanced recycling technologies such as chemical recycling, which turn packaging waste into reusable materials thus minimizing landfill contributions.

Startup to Watch: Suppli

Canadian startup Suppli offers a returnable packaging system to replace single-use containers in the food takeout industry. The company works with restaurants to provide reusable stainless steel and silicone containers, which customers return within two weeks to one of Suppli’s drop-off locations. Each container is made from food-grade, recyclable materials to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to disposable packaging. Suppli’s system reduces waste and integrates easily with platforms like Uber Eats, making it accessible to a wide audience.

6. Cloud Computing

Technologies including cloud and edge computing give packaging companies the flexibility to manage operations across diverse platforms while reducing latency. For example, serverless computing allows developers to build and deploy packaging software solutions without having to manage infrastructure, which ultimately accelerates innovation. Moreover, integrating AI through cloud platforms enhances data analytics and real-time decision-making thus optimizing the entire packaging lifecycle from production to distribution. Green computing initiatives further support this shift toward cloud-based solutions to minimize the environmental impact of data centers and IT infrastructure.

3 Practical Use Cases of Cloud Computing in Packaging:

• Collaborative Design & Prototyping: Cloud computing enables real-time collaboration among designers and engineers across multiple locations. This allows for faster iterations and seamless sharing of packaging prototypes, enhancing efficiency and innovation.
• Supply Chain Management: Cloud-based platforms provide end-to-end visibility into the packaging supply chain. For instance, companies track inventory, shipments, and supplier performance in real-time to improve decision-making and reduce disruptions.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Cloud-based CRM systems enable packaging companies to store and analyze customer data more efficiently, allowing for personalized customer interactions, better forecasting, and improved sales management.

Startup to Watch: Pacdora

Singaporean startup Pacdora offers a custom packaging design tool that enables the creation of professional 3D packaging designs directly in their browser. Its platform integrates features such as dieline generation, 3D previews, and real-time editing that allow designers to customize packaging dimensions, materials, and shapes. The startup’s tools support a wide range of packaging formats, including boxes, pouches, and jars, offering thousands of templates. Pacdora offers easy design-to-export workflow and high-resolution rendering, simplifying packaging design for industries such as food, cosmetics, and retail, enabling brands to create visually appealing, functional packaging.

7. Connectivity Technologies

Near-field communication (NFC) and QR codes integrate into packaging to enable an interaction between consumers and products. These interactions vary from digital content and product verification to brand engagement. Further, NFC tags within the packaging itself provide real-time product information and track supply chain activities to enhance traceability and security. Meanwhile, cloud-based platforms and embedded smart sensors gather data for better inventory management and monitor packaging conditions during distribution.

3 Practical Use Cases of Connectivity Technologies in Packaging:

• Connected Machinery: Connectivity technologies, like the IoT, enable packaging machinery to communicate with central systems and other equipment in real-time. This optimizes production efficiency by monitoring performance and automating operations.
• Interactive Consumer Engagement: Connected packaging, using QR codes or NFC tags, allows brands to engage consumers directly by offering personalized content, rewards, and product information through interactive scans.
• Real-Time Shipment Tracking: IoT-enabled packaging systems provide real-time tracking of shipments by integrating GPS or RFID technologies. This offers end-to-end visibility into the location and condition of products throughout the supply chain.

Startup to Watch: Manufact

Australian startup Manufact develops smart seals incorporating NFC, RFID, and tamper-evident technologies to secure products and detect unauthorized access. Its seals feature NFC/RFID chips combined with blockchain digital twins to create a unique digital identifier for each item. The startup’s products such as the NFC Anti-Tamper Heatshrink Capsule, ideal for bottle caps, and the NFC/RFID Wet Inlay, which adheres between surfaces, provide strong tamper protection. What’s more, the company also offers NFC/RFID Anti-Tamper Labels to ensure that any tampering leaves clear evidence, and NFC/RFID Temperature and Humidity Detection labels, which track environmental conditions during transit. In short, Manufact provides real-time tracking, customizable seals, and data insights that allow brands to enhance product security, traceability, and consumer trust.

8. Internet of Packaging (IoP)

Embedded sensors, RFID tags, and QR codes enable real-time tracking and monitoring of products. They provide manufacturers with data on inventory management, product quality, and supply chain performance. IoT-powered packaging monitors environmental factors like temperature and humidity to ensure optimal storage conditions for sensitive products. This connectivity enhances supply chain transparency, enabling consumers to engage directly with products via their packaging. Overall, these advancements empower packaging companies to drive sustainability by minimizing waste, optimizing recycling, and ensuring product safety throughout the product’s lifecycle.

3 Practical Use Cases of the Internet of Packaging:

• Inventory Management: Connected sensors and RFID tags track stock levels, automate reordering, and ensure optimal stock control to reduce the risk of overstocking or shortages.
• Smart Labeling and Tracking: IoT-powered smart labeling systems integrate RFID and GPS technologies to provide real-time visibility of packages. Companies can track the location, condition, and movement of products throughout the supply chain.
• Quality Control: IoT-enabled sensors monitor environmental conditions like temperature and humidity both in packaging and production lines. This maintains product quality and prevents damage or spoilage during transportation.

Startup to Watch: reo

German startup reo develops IoT-enabled circular packaging solutions to transform traditional packaging into sustainable and reusable assets. Its platform integrates smart IoT chips into packaging, enabling brands to track and trace each item throughout its lifecycle. This technology allows companies to conserve resources by reusing packaging and reducing waste. The startup’s solution includes transparent data collection on product use, return, and refurbishment processes to provide insights for brands and consumers. reo promotes closed-loop packaging and supports brands in reducing their ecological footprint.

9. Advanced Robotics

Autonomous robots equipped with machine learning algorithms and advanced vision systems speed up sorting, palletizing, and packaging tasks. Meanwhile, cobots, or collaborative robots, work alongside human operators to improve productivity and safety in complex environments. Robotic systems use AI-powered control software for real-time adjustments and adaptive learning to make packaging processes more efficient and scalable. These innovations, combined with smart sensors and data analytics, provide manufacturers with enhanced operational insight, optimizing workflows and reducing downtime.

3 Practical Use Cases of Advanced Robotics in Packaging:

• Robotic Packaging Systems: In the packaging sectors, advanced robotics automate repetitive tasks like packing and sealing, offering precise and continuous operation to meet high production demands.
• Automated Sorting and Handling: Robotics-enabled automated sorting systems improve the accuracy and speed of handling various products, minimizing errors and optimizing material flow through packaging lines.
• Palletizing Robots: Stack products with precision to reduce labor costs and increase throughput while ensuring stable and efficient pallet configurations for transportation.

Startup to Watch: Tuva Makine

Turkish startup Tuva Makine offers packaging machines and robotic systems for efficient, automated production. Its technology combines machinery with intelligent robotic solutions to enhance packaging speed and precision. The startup’s product range includes case preparation and banding machines, robotic box filling lines, vertical filling packing machines, shrink machines, pallet stretch wrapping machines, and conveyor systems. With modular designs, automatic product handling, and flexible configuration, Tuva Makine ensures smooth operation in various industrial settings. These systems reduce labor costs, improve packaging consistency, and optimize production flow.

10. Nanotechnology

By adding nanoparticles to packaging materials, manufacturers improve barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and UV light. This enhancement extends product shelf life, particularly in food and pharmaceuticals. Technologies like nano-coatings and nanocomposites create durable, lightweight packaging that protects products and reduces material usage. Further, biosensors powered by nanotechnology monitor environmental factors such as temperature and humidity to ensure stable product quality throughout the supply chain.

3 Practical Use Cases of Nanotechnology in Packaging:

• Smart Packaging: Incorporating nanosensors monitors environmental conditions like temperature and provide real-time data on product freshness and quality to improve supply chain transparency.
• Antimicrobial Packaging: Nanoparticles, such as silver or zinc oxide, are embedded in packaging materials to provide antimicrobial properties. This extends the shelf life of perishable goods by inhibiting microbial growth.
• Enhanced Barrier Properties: Nanotechnology improves the barrier properties of packaging materials by using nanocomposites. These prevent the infiltration of gases and moisture to preserve product quality and extend shelf life.

Startup to Watch: VERDE Nanomaterials

US startup VERDE Nanomaterials develops cellulose nanofibers from plant waste. It transforms low-cost raw materials like agricultural residues and invasive grasses into biomaterials. The startup’s proprietary process breaks down cellulose fibers into nanofibers to create a lightweight, biodegradable, and strong material for packaging and other uses. It uses feedstock-flexible technology to optimize production for scalability and environmental impact. The cellulose nanofibers absorb water, are transparent, and strong, which makes them ideal for sustainable packaging. VERDE Nanomaterials’ approach reduces waste while improving product performance across various industries.

For more actionable insights, download our free Packaging Innovation Report.

Additional Insights into the Packaging Industry

Patents, Grants & Investment Landscape

Technological advancements are transforming the packaging sector. The industry holds over 171000 patents and more than 9000 grants, highlighting its focus on innovation.

Investors like Techstars, Plug and Play Accelerator, Y Combinator, Google for Startups, and Google Ventures support this growth. They provide funding that fuels new ideas and technologies. The funding landscape includes seed funding, early-stage VC/series A, pre-seed, angel investments, and equity crowdfunding. The average funding amount is USD 22.5 million which shows strong financial backing for emerging solutions in the packaging industry.

Global Footprint

The industry has a global presence in the US, UK, India, Germany, and Canada. Key city hubs include London, New York City, Sydney, Melbourne, and Mumbai, serving as centers of innovation and activity. This geographical concentration drives the industry’s evolution in response to market demands and technological possibilities.

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