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The Impact of Retail Trends on Packaging to 2031

Automation, data, sustainability, value, and cost are reshaping retail packaging. This report examines how the evolving retail landscape is impacting packaging requirements through to 2031.

The retail packaging market is at an inflection point. Global retail reached approximately $29.2 trillion in 2025, yet growth is slowing as inflation and cost-of-living pressures weigh on consumer spending, with value goods and essentials outperforming discretionary and luxury categories. 

This report maps the forces reshaping packaging demand through to 2031, from AI-driven forecasting and warehouse automation to EPR regulation, sustainability mandates, and the accelerating integration of physical and digital retail. Market estimates and forecasts are segmented by retail type, end-use, and geography, with technology forecasts and competitive analysis spanning direct-to-consumer, click-and-collect, in-store pickup, and home delivery channels. 

The data and analysis in this report is drawn from Smithers’ primary research and authored by specialists with extensive hands-on experience across the packaging industry, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and relevance.

Key questions answered within this report

  • How will changes to retail trends alter consumers' expectations of packaging in terms of sustainability, functionality, and the overall shopping experience? 
  • How can packaging converters be prepared for continually changing retail trends, and what investments in technology, materials, and supply chain flexibility will be critical to staying competitive? 
  • How are brands adapting their packaging strategies to keep ahead of changing retail trends, and what role does data, design, and sustainability play in maintaining shelf standout and consumer relevance?

About the author

Windsor Holden is a payments and technology consultant with over 25 years’ industry experience. He spent eight years at Juniper Research leading its Digital Payments Stream and heading Forecasting & Consultancy, and has since provided payments research and forecasts to clients including PSE and Kaleido Intelligence. A regular speaker at major industry events across Europe, he is known for his interdisciplinary approach and commitment to producing relevant, timely research that is responsive to real-world needs.

About Smithers Market Intelligence

Smithers high quality data and analysis is built on primary research and written by genuine industry experts with deep subject matter knowledge. Our market reports are now delivered in PowerPoint format – redesigned for easier navigation and faster access to insights, without losing any analytical depth. Every report also comes with our Latest Data Guarantee: if major industry developments occur within 12 months of publication, we'll update the data, forecasts, and analysis at no extra cost, so your investment stays relevant for longer.

Want to find out more about our packaging research? Contact the team on the links below.

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Bill Allen

Bill Allen

Head of Sales – Europe and Middle East, Smithers Information Division

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Sean Walsh

Sean Walsh

Business Development Manager, Smithers Information Division

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