How Greiner Packaging Detects and Redefines Trends
06/02/2025 | 3 min read
Jörg Sabo
Innovation isn’t a coincidence – it’s the result of a structured process. At Greiner Packaging, innovation management is therefore a core part of the company’s strategy: the goal is to identify trends early, assess their relevance to the market, and translate them into sustainable packaging solutions. This approach not only ensures competitiveness but also creates real added value for customers. Whether through sustainable materials, new technologies, or more efficient production processes – innovation is present throughout the entire company. It’s no surprise that the company’s slogan is “do the innovation.”
Megatrends in Focus
Like every industry, the packaging sector is shaped by global megatrends – they bring challenges, but also enormous opportunities. At Greiner Packaging, these developments are systematically analyzed to develop innovative solutions for tomorrow’s demands. Based on extensive trend analyses, cross-departmental and internationally staffed teams are formed to develop, evaluate, and explore the potential of new ideas.
In this first part of our innovation blog series, we present two current trends that are significantly influencing the future of the packaging industry.
1. Connected & Smart Packaging
Digital technologies are changing how we use and perceive packaging. Connected packaging uses smart technologies such as QR codes, NFC (Near Field Communication), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Augmented Reality (AR), or sensors to provide information or enable interactive experiences. By scanning or interacting with the packaging, consumers gain access to digital content or services. Smart packaging is revolutionizing how brands and consumers interact.
Why is connected packaging so important?
Consumer engagement: Interactive content like videos, contests, or AR applications fosters stronger brand connections.
Expanded product information: Packaging can offer detailed information about ingredients, origin, or recycling options.
Sustainability & circular economy: Connected packaging supports circular systems by providing recycling instructions or disposal guidance.
Transparency & trust: Consumers get insights into the product’s supply chain and sustainability footprint.
Customer satisfaction: Personalized digital experiences enhance user satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Logistics optimization: RFID chips can be used to track packaging across the entire value chain.
Real-world examples At trade fairs, Greiner Packaging has successfully used QR codes on packaging: visitors could use an app to take part in a recycling quiz and interactive games that conveyed sustainability in a playful way. Additionally, RFID chips are used in reusable event cups to precisely track circulation and usage patterns. This makes it easier for organizers to switch from single-use to sustainable reusable systems.
2. Reusable Packaging
Ideally, packaging should be reused as often as possible. Reusable packaging is a key to greater sustainability, as it not only reduces waste but also decreases resource consumption and CO₂ emissions.
Why is reusable packaging so important?
Resource conservation: Less single-use waste and lower demand for raw materials.
CO₂ reduction: Reduced environmental impact through less energy-intensive production.
Economic benefits: Reusable packaging can save companies money in the long term.
These benefits, of course, depend on how long the packaging remains in the cycle and how often it is reused.
Real-world examples One example from Greiner Packaging is reusable meal boxes for take-away food. These are designed to replace traditional Styrofoam containers while remaining functional, durable, and environmentally friendly. Similarly, Greiner Packaging’s reusable drinking cups help reduce single-use plastic at concerts and large events, supporting more sustainable event planning. The company is also analyzing various concepts for food and non-food markets to find the best reusable solutions for different applications.
More and more food producers are turning to paper packaging because it is considered environmentally friendly. But are they really the more sustainable choice? In this blogpost we examine assumptions and myths.
