Over the years the Pharmaceutical industry has evolved greatly from its traditional form to high-tech equipments and inspiring innovations. With an increasing awareness of sustainability and the ever growing population, advancements in the market are expected to drive further growth and could exceed £84 billion by 2024.
The Pharmaceutical industry has faced many changes in the past year. The pandemic has causing companies to revalue their strategy and approach. With all eyes on this sector, today we look at 5 emerging Pharmaceutical Packaging trends.
1. Eco-friendly packaging
Consumers have become much more aware of how their everyday activities effect the world. As the increasing trends towards ethical shopping continues there is a rise in green, sustainable packaging. With safety top of mind for the Pharmaceutical industry, it is not as simple as it is other industries to adjust their packaging solutions. However, we do have a solution. PLA Packaging which would help reduce emissions as well as producing more sustainable end product. PLA uses 65% less energy during production and is also combustible.
2. Accessible packaging
When it comes to Pharmaceutical packaging, it’s key that consumers have all information they need to understand the product. They need to be able to find the details required fast and clearly e.g dosage or ingredients without turning the product every angle to source what they are after. Accessible product packaging should be one of the main considerations of Pharmaceutical packaging design. The increase in self-medication means that clear instructions are vital to ensure medication is taken correctly and safely.
3. Glass Formats
There is a rising demand for glass and container pharmaceutical packaging, mainly from densely populated countries such as India and China. Due to increased opportunities in these markets, Schott AG invested BRL 50 million in its pharmaceutical tubing production in Brazil. The increasing number of people with diabetes is also fluctuating the growth and demand of glass bottles for injectable pharmaceuticals. The World Health Organisation estimated 422 million people have diabetes across the world. Look out for more innovations in glass packaging due to the increased interest.
5. Blister Packaging
Blister packages are a popular way of packaging pharmaceutical products and this isn’t slowing down any time soon. They have gained popularity in particular to protect medicine from moisture. Companies such as Buropak and Ecobliss have recently developed blister packaging that is child proof. There are also in increasing number of companies that require visible evidence of tamping. This has driven the need for tamper evident packaging and with blister packs being deterrent to tampering, they are the ‘go to’ packaging solution. Other benefits include improved shelf life, light weight, clean area for instructions, product visibility and cost effectiveness.
5. Smart Technology
With ever increasing stock levels and demands, pharmaceutical companies are exploring how smart technology can be incorporated into packaging. Smart technology such a Bluetooth, NFC and QR codes are set to transform the industry. One example of smart technology for pharmaceutical packaging is temperature tracking that helps eliminate the use of unsafe products. Very smart!
With the market constantly changing to meet consumer health priorities, we expect many more trends in this fast growing sector. Furthermore, Pharmaceutical companies have a chance to meet consumer needs with their packaging that innovates and inspires. All trends are courtesy of Modor and Packaging360.
If you would like to contact us about packaging design, drop us a line or meet us in person. We are located in the centre of Hammersmith, London.
