International cosmetics and beauty packaging manufacturer and supplier Quadpack's marketing department has outlined the trends that will accompany us in the industry over the next twelve months of 2024.
The company has highlighted increased public awareness of climate change and the conflicts of war that surround us today, not to mention the scarcity of resources and raw materials and rising prices. The trends of 2024 will, of course, adapt to all these circumstances that we live with us every day.
The first consumer trend that the cosmetics packaging manufacturer talks about is "made for me". This "made for me" is directly linked to a desire for ultra-personalisation that has been with us for several years now. Artificial intelligence offers all kinds of opportunities for beauty brands, from digital diagnostic tools and virtual fragrances to in-game launches. Shops are no longer just retail outlets but have also become a 'testing' space. Consumers go there to test products and then purchase them through the online channel. Brands are pursuing the goal of connecting with their target in an original, new and creative way that puts them at the top of mind of their consumers. Examples of this new link that brands seek to create are podcasts, festivals, collaborations with public figures and influencers and, of course, pop-up shops. Bringing this down to the packaging sector, Quadpack points out that packaging can support this trend by offering conscious, memorable experiences.
The second trend that will be with us, according to Quadpack, is blue, as the environment and care for our oceans will be very present in 2024. Like the previous trend, it is something that will be with us for years to come, with many beauty brands already developing and formulating water-free, microplastic-free and reef-friendly products. In terms of packaging, this trend will inspire the development of marine-themed décor, with a palette of reflective blues and greens, water-like finishes or "quirky" textures such as seapunk neoprene or mermaid scales.
Silent beauty will also be present in the coming year. We have already indicated that silent luxury will be strong in the coming year and this also applies to the beauty sector. Consumers are willing to pay more for quality. Quiet beauty prioritises simplicity and efficiency. In terms of packaging, Quadpack explains that packs can protect high-performance products and natural ingredients with airtight designs or airless technology. The look is timeless elegance, a kind of handcrafted aesthetic, with minimalist lines.
Oasis in dystopia is the penultimate trend highlighted by Quadpack. In packaging, this means that alternative packaging materials support the protopian vision of the future: biocomposites such as Sulapac, recycled plastics, wood, aluminium, leather, cement, terracotta, cork and so on. Climate-adaptable formulations will also be possible with some form of protection, be it barriers or airtight or airless formats. This trend goes hand in hand with a dark and sombre aesthetic, with organic and at the same time brutalist forms. Metallic finishes and materials serve to highlight this futuristic touch.
The latest trend predicted by Quadpack is 'in search of timelessness' and this will influence packaging in pack design. Mini vials offer effective single-dose solutions. The aesthetics are pure, clean and laboratory-inspired, while new creative concepts for nutricosmetics packaging can, in turn, transform the look of the traditional 'pill jar'.