As in most industries, the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the packaging sector. The impact of COVID-19 has been wide and varied and will also be long-lasting.

The pandemic has not only changed our lives as we knew it, but it is expected to influence our daily life for the next 12 to 18 months. This uncertainty has impacted consumer attitudes towards packaging solutions too.

In this post, we look at some of the key packaging trends in the UK during the COVID-19 era.

Single-Use Packaging on The Rise

Owing to consumer concerns about the safety of reusable packaging, many businesses have favoured single-use disposable packing solutions over reusable packaging.

Moreover, a recent study found that consumer attitudes towards packaging have completely changed since the pandemic. About 68% of consumers state they have a more positive attitude towards single-use packaging.

This stands in stark contrast to the growing concern about single-use packing solutions and their negative impact on the environment as well as their effect on the price of the end product.

However, owing to COVID-19, there’s a marked shift in attitudes towards packaging with greater emphasis being placed on product safety and minimising infection and contamination.

But in the long-term, we are likely to see a return and an increasing focus on reusable and eco-friendly packaging as more and more consumers demand sustainable solutions.

Demand for Hygienic, Secure Packaging

When the government put in place lockdown measures to clamp down on the virus, the shopping habits of consumers changed dramatically, almost overnight.

With people restricted to their homes and the need to reduce contact, more and more consumers began showing interest in online shopping.

However, there was still the concern of minimising human contact with the packages being delivered. Studies suggest that coronavirus can linger on surfaces for up to 24 hours. This has resulted in the need for innovation where packaging solutions were concerned.

For instance, packaging products with antibacterial properties, packing solutions that are previously unwrapped or products that do away with the need for consumers to touch certain parts of the package.

Automated Packaging Processes

To stay in operation, many businesses have been searching for ways to reduce human interactions, and this includes automating the packaging process.

These processes must work seamlessly in order to support automation and to ensure businesses can make this dramatic shift.

Automation was a huge trend even before the COVID-19 era, and here at Tripak, we believe that it is sure to play a huge role in the packaging industry once things are in control.

Demand for Contactless Delivery

With online orders on the rise, the use of shipping boxes has grown tremendously. There’s also a marked increase in the use of cup carriers, carry-out bags and other packing solutions as companies turn to contactless delivery.

Looking for Quality Packaging Solutions? We Can Help

Here at Tripak Ltd., we offer an array of packing solutions suited for every type of product and industry. Whether you are delivering food, electronics or fragile materials, we are here to help you choose the right packaging solutions for your business.

Contact us today for more information.