Speak to any retailer and collectively they say packaging is paramount when they consider onboarding a brand. Think of it as a first date— it’s that, “You had me at hello!” moment. DIY boxes and laser printed labels are quickly becoming a distant memory as indie brands win over consumers by investing money and creating strategic packaging that speaks to their brand ethos, whether that is high glamour or sustainability, and are rightfully taking market-share.

Below are 5 major packaging trends that will stand out at IBE NY on August 22-23rd at Pier 36. See them in the slider above. 

Storytelling

O’o’ Hawaii: Holly Harding’s superfood ingredients blended with crystals like rose quartz and sapphire inspired her geometric shaped cartons and white glass jars.  From soup to nuts, this brand’s sustainable packaging is the “jackpot;” the outside reflects what's inside. The packaging collectively tells the brand’s story.

Luxe

Sea Buck: Hailing from Switzerland, founder Human Afschari, a Buddhist, spent years in the Himalayas where sea buckthorn is sourced for the product. The sleek handmade orange casing represents joy, sunshine and stimulation (and most South Asian buddhists wear the hue) and opens up to reveal delicate jars with gilded details meant to last well beyond one use. Since a portion of the profits goes to the non-profit The Mountain Institute, it is worthy of displaying and repurposing! 

Minimalist

Cardea Auset: Intentionally simplistic branding has exploded in popularity, particularly with the Millennial set. This version of stylized packaging allows consumers to visualize the products sitting in any bathroom or being given as the perfect gift. Clear glass with minimal text lets Cardea Auset's pretty formulas, like their Sea Mineral Soak with pastel petals and salts, do all the talking.

Zero Waste

Ethique: Going green certainly isn’t a new trend, but brands are taking it to the next level by eschewing traditional (and often environmentally damaging) containers. New Zealand brand Ethique created naturally derived beauty bars with biodegradable wrappers as an alternative to the 80 billion plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles that end up in landfills every year.

Distinguishing

Black Chicken Remedies:  No matter what shelves you shop, Black Chicken Remedies stands out. The clean beauty brand from Australia combines apothecary wellness with contemporary esthetics. Think touches of mint green and striking script that pop in a sea of streamlined black and white, beckoning to those looking for something unique.