Important Beverage Packaging Trends in 2025

Alongside this economic growth there have been many developments in drinks branding and packaging design, with more innovations appearing every year. It’s important to stay ahead of current packaging trends with regards to materials, design choices and if you want to navigate this industry as seamlessly as possible.

This blog explores drinks packaging trends in 2025, exploring the increased emphasis on sustainability in its various forms.

Recycled collation shrink films
One of the most exciting beverage packaging trends is the use of recycled polythene shrink films for non-food or drink contact packaging. These films can be used to wrap multipacks, with recycled polythene shrink films being brandable for communicating identity on first sight. Oceanix Collation Shrink Film is one of the most exciting examples of this development, being made from recycled maritime waste to help clean up the environment and reduce virgin plastic production.

The increased use of options like this signifies a shift toward recycled materials in packaging, rather than simply recyclable packaging.

Canned & boxed drinks
Many drinks that have traditionally been sold in bottles have started to be sold in cans and boxes – another shift towards exploring alternative materials. For example, Costa Coffee has started to sell ready-to-drink coffee in cans, while Boxed Water Is Better is leading the charge in cardboard beverage packaging trends.

Attached bottlecaps
This is a controversial trend in drinks packaging design but it’s ruffling feathers for the right reasons. Attaching bottlecaps to plastic bottles has been noticed over the last year or so, and while many find them annoying, they’re a notable step in the fight against litter. The attachment makes bottles just one item rather than two, also helping to streamline the recycling process.

Including messaging on the packaging itself
Many brands are promoting their sustainable efforts by presenting information on the packaging itself. This could be simply written messaging, graphics explaining the recycling process, or QR codes leading to digital insights into how the company approaches sustainability. These packaging trends are being followed in an effort to drive brand engagement while also being a great way to advertise eco-friendly practices and connect with customers.

Staying ahead of packaging trends
It helps businesses remain successful by staying ahead of trends in industries like food and beverages, especially as the general consumer becomes increasingly concerned with corporate sustainability. It’s important to maintain awareness of new materials being developed and used, manufacturing processes and exciting design concepts. Check out our blog for regular updates on all things packaging and sustainability,