Adding Experiential Value

“Sustainable packaging is now the baseline. The focus has shifted to how we can add value to the pack through experience,” a representative from global manufacturer Quadpack told Stylus. Through playful gestures, sensory excitement and attentive responses to market demands, manufacturers are working hard to stay ahead in a competitive sector. 

Refillables as a Bonding Moment

Experience is also a key driver behind luxurious refillable packs. As a product that remains in constant use, packaging becomes a powerful medium for storytelling and an opportunity for connection, while the refill process is evolving to be seamless, thanks to fully automated or intuitive designs.

The New Look of Sustainable Luxury

The European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation – adopted in early 2025, with initial measures set to take effect in August 2026 – was a key talking point. Secondary legislation is still pending, causing widespread frustration over the lack of detail. But the industry is taking proactive steps to prepare for the mandates, resulting in material innovation, shifts in manufacturing approaches and new aesthetics.

The Art of Gifting

As gift boxes become ever more elaborate, and advent calendars increasingly claim prime position in exhibitors’ booths and on consumer wish lists, gifting design continues to offer designers and manufacturers a chance to pull out all the stops. This year, there was a notable emphasis on Chinese holidays and emerging gifting occasions.