What’s Hot: Trends Driving the Packaging Industry in 2026

AI Workflows Leading the Charge

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the industry, changing the way that products are being developed, packaged, and shipped.

AI is streamlining packaging operations as it becomes integrated into more processes¹. For example, product packaging design mock-ups are being developed on the fly, packaging materials are being analyzed to reduce waste, and it’s making customization a standard part of packaging, not just a nice-to-have.

When incorporated into manufacturing and production automation, AI can be a valuable quality control tool for detecting defects or flagging preventative maintenance or cleaning.

Improving Safety & Efficiency Through Automation

Safety and efficiency remain top priorities for packaging operations teams. Automated packaging equipment complements your human workforce by protecting them from repetitive task injuries and other safety risks while increasing productivity.

End-of-line equipment, including case erectors, sealers, and stretch wrappers, ensures that products are consistently packaged properly while freeing up precious warehouse space. 

Automation also allows staff to focus on more important tasks and reduces excess waste, enabling you to meet your goals and plan for future growth. 

The Shift to 2D Barcodes

The GS-1 Sunrise 2027 initiative² is bringing a change to global barcode standards to improve supply chain operations and traceability across multiple industries—from healthcare to retail.

The transition from traditional linear, one-dimensional (1D) barcodes, such as UPC and EAN, into two-dimensional (2D) ones, like QR Codes and DataMatrix, is beneficial for multifunctionality because they can:

• Hold more information about a product
• Ensure regulatory compliance & product traceability
• Enhance customers’ experience with your brand
• Scan with point-of-sale (POS) systems AND smartphones

Updating to the new standard will take some planning and coordination, especially if additional digital content needs to be developed, so plan to be proactive if you’re looking to transition to 2D barcodes in 2026 and beyond.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Compliance

Sustainability has entered a new era with the passage of EPR legislation in multiple states, prompting businesses to rethink and overhaul the way they package, and even repackage, products.

Packaging “producers” are now required to track and report their paper and packaging material usage and pay fees on a state-by-state basis, depending on the type of materials and how sustainable they are.

Companies are reinventing sustainability programs and redesigning packaging to be more recyclable, reusable, and compostable to lessen the impact of EPR legislation.

As more states pass EPR laws, packaging operations teams should pay attention to new program timelines and deadlines to stay compliant.

Smart Packaging Integration Enhances Your Brand Story

Leveraging smart packaging technology³ alongside 2D barcodes, RFID & NFC tags, and sensors can support your brand story, provide proof of authenticity, offer real-time product info, and improve your customer experience.

They include physical packaging elements like:

• Temperature-sensitive labels
• Freshness indicators
• Tamper-evident seals
• Biodegradable or edible packaging

And can be augmented by digital resources that can:

• List ingredients & allergens
• Read a label out loud
• Track a product seamlessly throughout the shipping process
• Include storytelling, marketing, and augmented reality

These are useful for businesses in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, retail, and eCommerce industries where traceability, safety, compliance, and authenticity are essential.