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In this festive episode of Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Cory Connors, and Adam Peek break down the latest holiday packaging trends and reveal which seasonal designs actually boost sales—and which are just expensive distractions.

We cover:

• What design elements are trending this holiday season (and why)

• How brands are using limited-edition packaging to drive urgency and shelf appeal

• The power of sensory elements: sparkle, texture, scent, and sound

• Real-world case studies of packaging that sold out during the holidays

• Tips for procurement teams and designers working on next year’s seasonal launch

🎁 Whether you're a packaging buyer, brand manager, or designer, this episode delivers the insights you need to turn festive packaging into real revenue.

🔔 Subscribe and leave a comment with your favorite (or worst) holiday package of the year.

From QR codes and NFC chips to pop-ups, reveals, and boxes that move—interactive packaging is having a moment. But is it actually worth the cost, engineering, and complexity? Or is it just a flashy gimmick brands can’t stop chasing?In this episode of Packaging Today, we dive deep into interactive packaging that goes beyond tech. Think: lids that lift the product, drawers that slide out, compartments that spring open, and packaging that turns every unboxing into theater.What you’ll learn:The true ROI of interactive packagingWhen interactivity enhances user experience, and when it just adds costWhat structural elements consumers remember (and which they ignore)The difference between gimmick and strategy in luxury, beauty, and DTCHow interactive packaging impacts recyclability and sustainability claimsWhether you’re designing packaging for wow-factor, function, or both. This episode will help you think smarter about what interactivity actually means in 2025.

Connect with our hosts:Evelio Mattos: www.IDPdirect.comCory Conners: www.atlanticpkg.comAdam Peek: www.LabelKing.com

How do you design packaging that is the most sustainable for your brand?Let's ask the questions that get you to the results that matter.What does Sustainability mean to you?

Think your turkey is the only thing getting roasted this Thanksgiving? Think again.In this holiday episode of Packaging Today, we carve into the worst examples of Thanksgiving packaging—products that miss the mark, confuse the consumer, or straight-up kill the vibe at the dinner table. From tone-deaf graphics to frustrating form factors that turn gravy into a game of chance, we’re breaking down how bad seasonal packaging still makes it to shelf in 2025.Whether you’re a designer, marketer, or just someone trying to open cranberry sauce without a meltdown, this is the episode for you.🗂️ In This Episode:The seasonal packaging sins that haunt shelvesWhy “festive” doesn’t mean “cluttered”Functional fails that ruin the unboxing momentWhat good Thanksgiving packaging should actually do📦 Plus, we crown the Packaging Turkey of the Year—you’ll want to see this one.Connect with our hosts:Evelio Mattos: www.IDPdirect.comCory Conners: www.atlanticpkg.comAdam Peek: www.LabelKing.com

Ever wonder who designs the cereal box sitting on a sitcom kitchen counter—or how a 1980s soda can ends up looking perfectly era-correct in a Netflix period drama?In this episode of Packaging Today, we dive into the fascinating world of movie packaging design:How brands use product placement to steal scenesWhy fake brands (hello, Los Pollos Hermanos) sometimes hit harder than real onesWhat it takes to recreate authentic vintage packaging from decades pastAnd the surprising creative freedom (and legal minefields) that come with designing packaging for film and TVWe’ll talk about how packaging helps set tone, build character, and sell nostalgia—and whether these on-screen packages need to follow the same design rules as their retail counterparts.🎥 Whether you’re a packaging designer, film buff, or just a fan of the little details that make movies magic, this one’s for you.

This week on The Packaging Today Show, we’re tackling a seismic shift in the CPG world: skyrocketing metal‑packaging prices driven by U.S. tariffs — and how brands are scrambling to re‑engineer their grocery‑aisle packaging from steel and aluminum cans to stand‑up pouches, paper cartons, and other alternatives.We’ll dig into:How the doubling of tariffs on imported steel and aluminum to 50% has forced metal‑packaging costs to spike in the U.S. by as much as 10–15%. Why can manufacturers and food brands are now eyeing materials like aseptic cartons, foil pouches, and flexible plastics — not just for sustainability, but for cost containment. The hidden downstream effects for packaging: retooling machinery, changing supply chains, and redesigning pack formats (which often means higher initial CAPEX).What this downtime actually means for packaging designers, engineers, and brand buyers — from format performance trade‑offs to consumer perception and shelf impact.Whether this shift is purely reactive to tariffs or genuinely heralding a longer‑term structural change in packaging material use.Tips for managing this transition: how to assess material alternatives, align packaging strategy with cost curves, and design for both brand and unit‑economics in this new era.If you’re in the packaging game — or advising brands facing packaging upheaval — this episode gives you a frontline seat to the change happening now. Subscribe, comment with your questions, and come ready to rethink what happens inside the grocery aisle.Work with guys:Evelio - https://www.IDPdirect.comCory - https://www.atlanticpkg.comAdam - http://www.TheLabelKing.comSupport those that support our show:Manage your packaging specs with www.specright.com Learn more about water soluble papers from www.Smartsolve.com

Today on Packaging Today, we’re peeling back the headlines and digging into what's really happening in the packaging world:🧾 Packaging Tax Pain in the UK: UK food firms say the new packaging tax—part of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme—is pushing up prices. For example, one brand reported £153,000 in extra costs this year just from this levy. We’ll talk: which packaging formats are hardest hit? Will brands shift to less‑sustainable materials just to avoid the fees?📉 Waste Declining, But Can We Trust It?: According to the Eurostat data, plastic packaging waste in the EU fell by 1.0 kg per person in 2023 (to 35.3 kg each). European Commission But we’ll ask: is this real progress—or clever accounting? What’s the catch behind “less waste per person”?🏆 Award‑Winning Packaging: Innovation or Same Old?: We’ll look at a recent gold‑winning design in the packaging awards world and ask the hard question: are we really innovating—or just dressing up the same ideas in shine and polish?Join us as we break down:Why packaging taxes are already changing brand material strategyHow “waste reductions” may hide new problemsWhether “award‑winning design” still moves us forward—or keeps us spinningIf you’re in packaging design, sourcing, supply‑chain or brand strategy, this episode is your mid‑week wake‑up.Don’t forget to subscribe, share the show, and drop your thoughts in the comments. Let’s keep the packaging conversation real.It's also Wednesday so it's time for CAN WE SOLVE IT! brought to you by Smartsolve.com soluble packaging solutions to actually reduce packaging waste.

Today on Packaging Today, we’re covering the biggest packaging news you need to know—including regulatory shake‑ups, major plant closures, and breakthrough materials.What’s lined up:Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): U.S. states are moving fast with packaging‑specific obligations that could force brands to rethink material choices and supply chains. FoodPrintPlant Closures Alarming the Industry: Packaging Corporation of America is shuttering multiple sites by year‑end, impacting 160+ jobs and signaling serious pressure on the corrugated and containerboard segment. Paper AdvanceSustainable Materials Stepping Up: From paper innovations to bio‑based replacements, new developments are forcing us to ask: are these the future or just green noise? Whether you’re a designer, buyer, sustainability lead or production manager, this episode gives you the context and urgency to act now not just listen later.Tune in for the headlines, the implications, and what they mean for your next packaging move.

In this episode, Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors hit the mic fresh from the floors of Pack Expo Las Vegas and the Sustainable Packaging Coalition event. We’re diving into:🔍 What we saw, who we met, and which booths actually blew our minds.🌍 The new sustainability trends that are more than just buzzwords (yes, there were some real standouts).🥇 The emerging materials, packaging formats, and innovations redefining what’s possible in retail packaging.💬 Honest conversations from the show floor—what packaging professionals are really excited about… and what’s missing.🎯 How these events are influencing the future of packaging design, sourcing, and storytelling.From walking the show floor to walking the sustainability talk, we’re unpacking everything that matters—and roasting a few trends that maybe don’t.

Bring your biggest packaging questions to *Can We Solve It?Stump us and win a limited-edition shirt, courtesy of https://smartsolve.comWatch live on LinkedIn + YouTube every Monday & Wednesday @ 7:30am PST👉 Subscribe to the show & be part of the future of packaging.

Want packaging that dissolves? check out www.Smartsolve.comNeed to manage your packaging specs for EPR regulation? go to www.Specright.comWork with guys:Evelio - https://www.IDPdirect.comCory - https://www.atlanticpkg.comAdam - http://www.TheLabelKing.com

In this episode, Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors hit the mic fresh from the floors of Pack Expo Las Vegas and the Sustainable Packaging Coalition event. We’re diving into: What we saw, who we met, and which booths actually blew our minds.The new sustainability trends that are more than just buzzwords (yes, there were some real standouts).The emerging materials, packaging formats, and innovations redefining what’s possible in retail packaging.Honest conversations from the show floor—what packaging professionals are really excited about… and what’s missing.How these events are influencing the future of packaging design, sourcing, and storytelling.From walking the show floor to walking the sustainability talk, we’re unpacking everything that matters—and roasting a few trends that maybe don’t.

It’s Wednesday — which means Can We Solve It is back! Tonight, Evelio, Adam, and Cory tackle your toughest packaging riddles. Send us the questions — if we can’t crack them live, you win a T‑shirt (thanks, SmartSolve).But first — we dig into the week’s most provocative headlines:🏷 Aldi’s Private Label Rebrand: Aldi is finally putting its name front and center on nearly all its private-label products. What does this mean for trust, shelf presence, and the future of store brands? Axios+1🍽 Does Packaging Change Flavor?: A new deep dive into how the food packaging itself—not just the food—can shape how we perceive taste.🚭 Plain Packaging for Vapes in the UK: New research shows that standardized, logo‑free vape packaging reduces its appeal to teens while having minimal effect on adult users. University College London+2EurekAlert!+2Whether you’re here for game‑show chaos or serious packaging debates, tonight’s packed with insights, laughs, and maybe a little humility when we get stumped.

Recycling is collapsing in real time. In this episode, Evelio Mattos, Cory Connors, and Adam Peek break down the shocking closure of rPlanet Earth, California’s $100M vertically integrated PET recycler. Why are domestic recyclers shutting down while brands claim to be “sustainable”?We dive deep into the real economics of plastic recycling, the softening PET markets, and why chemical recycling isn’t living up to the hype. Then what everybody is asking: is paper packaging the only viable path forward?Don’t make 2025 packaging decisions based on yesterday’s news.

One wrong word on a bottle. One missing allergen warning. One incorrect dosage. That’s all it takes for a packaging error to turn into a fatal recall.In today’s episode of Packaging Today, Evelio, Cory, and Adam dive deep into the terrifying world of packaging-related recalls, where bad information, sloppy approvals, or rushed production can literally cost lives.We discuss:🧯 How packaging errors happen (and who’s responsible)⚖️ What the FDA and other global agencies expect from packaging and labels🧪 Why it's not just food and pharma at risk, cosmetics, supplements, and even candles can kill🧠 How small brands can build safer approval workflows without enterprise-level systems🛠️ How to fix a packaging error when it’s already on shelvesWe’re not fear-mongering, we’re giving you the toolkit to protect your brand, your customers, and your team from the costly (and sometimes deadly) fallout of packaging mistakes.The life this episode saves may be your own! ok, probably not saving anyone's life, but we've always wanted to say that.Work with the guys:Reach out to Evelio: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eveliomattos/Contact Cory: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/Ask Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adampeek/Support those that support our show:Manage your packaging specs with www.specright.comLearn more about water soluble papers from www.Smartsolve.com#packaging

Apple's iconic packaging is just about to change and it's due to regulations that are challenging all brands to rething their packaging.- What Apple’s “carbon neutral” mark looked like—and why it’s being phased out globally- How new EU regulations are tightening claims and pushing brands to rethink sustainability messaging- Why this matters beyond Apple—any brand calling itself eco-friendly needs to pay attention- What replaces the carbon neutral badge? Is transparency the new luxury?This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about trust, compliance, and the packaging of the future.Curious? Let’s peel back the layers and decode the shift.Work with guys:Evelio - https://www.IDPdirect.comCory - https://www.atlanticpkg.comAdam - http://www.labelkingcorp.comNeed to manage your packaging specs for EPR regulation? go to https://www.Specright.comCheck out https://www.Smartsolve.com Packaging Dissolve your waste, not your standards.

If flexible packaging isn’t recyclable today why do brands insist on calling it sustainable?Today on Packaging Today, K-Pack Demon Hunters Evelio, Cory, and Adam dive into a critical turning point for flexible packaging recycling in the U.S. with the launch of the U.S. Flexible Film Initiative (USFFI) a coalition of CPG giants like General Mills, PepsiCo, Nestlé, and more, aiming to finally make scalable recycling for flexible films a reality.We break down:What USFFI is actually doing and yes, they’re funding MRFs to get flexible packaging recycled. The biggest infrastructure gaps: Only ~2% of U.S. households can recycle flexible film curbside right now. The friction points consumers face: from tangling in sorting machines to multi-layer barriers that defy recycling. Why California is ground zero thanks to its aggressive EPR mandates and SB54 requirements for recycling rates. We’ll challenge the snack pouch assumptions, ask whether these programs are real solutions or just expensive PR and predict whether real recycling for flexible films can ever match consumer convenience.Work with guys:Evelio - https://www.IDPdirect.comCory - https://www.atlanticpkg.comAdam - http://www.labelkingcorp.comWant packaging that dissolves? check out https://www.Smartsolve.comNeed to manage your packaging specs for EPR regulation? go to https://www.Specright.com

Is the marketplace shrinking—or are boxmakers simply boxed in? This episode of Packaging Today dives deep with Bloomberg analyst Ryan Fox to decode the alarming year-over-year slide in cardboard packaging—and what it says about consumer behavior, the economy, and sustainability.What you’ll hear:Why cardboard shipments are the unconventional economic red flag everyone should be watchingHow tariffs and inventory freeze cycles are skewing demand—but not telling the full storyThe ripple effect: What a box shortage could mean for brands, designers, and your living roomWhy smarter packaging isn’t optional it’s survivalTune in as Evelio, Cory, and Adam push past headlines and ask Ryan: What are you missing?Work with guys:Evelio - https://www.IDPdirect.comCory - https://www.atlanticpkg.comAdam - http://www.labelkingcorp.comWant packaging that dissolves? check out https://www.Smartsolve.comNeed to manage your packaging spoecs for EPR regulation? go to https://www.Specright.com

Join hosts Evelio Mattos, Cory Connors, and Adam Peek as they break down the latest packaging news and share a step-by-step guide on how startups can design packaging that stands out in today’s market. Learn how to choose the right materials, create cost-effective designs, and build packaging that tells your brand story while meeting sustainability goals. Perfect for new business owners, entrepreneurs, and creators ready to launch with packaging that sells.

Discover the strange but lucrative world of flipping empty luxury packaging. From Loewe bags to Chanel boxes, people are reselling what most of us throw away for hundreds online. Learn why buyers pay top dollar for used packaging, how this resale economy works, and what designers and brands can take away from it to add value, boost sustainability, and create collectible packaging experiences.

Engine Organic Gin's packaging design is gassed up and ready to disrupt your bar cart. Today on Packaging Today, Evelio, Cory, and Adam break down the bold branding move that puts high-end gin in what looks like a motor oil can and why it works.We’ll dive into:Why Engine Gin’s packaging stands out in a saturated spirits shelfThe psychology behind unexpected formatsOther brands taking wild risks with form, function, and storytellingPlus: What lessons can luxury, beauty, and CPG brands steal from this petrol-powered bottle?It’s Pack of the Week, and Engine Gin just might run away with the win.

You’ve been lied to. That compostable bag? Not compostable. That “recyclable” pouch? Only in your dreams.In this episode of Packaging Today, Adam Peek and Evelio Mattos blow the lid off the biggest packaging myths brands and consumers still believe and expose the truth behind so-called “sustainable” materials.From fake eco claims to greenwashed innovation, we’re naming names and breaking down how to design smarter, legally compliant packaging that doesn’t destroy trust (or the planet).💥 Plus, we launch a new segment: Liar, Liar, Pack on Fire 🔥The game where we test 3 viral packs and vote: Sustainable solution or pure BS?🎯 What you'll learn:How to spot and fix greenwashing in your packagingThe myths hurting your brand’s reputationHow to ask your suppliers the right questionsThis isn’t about shame, it’s about getting real.#packaging

Today, we reveal the Label King of Utah, the behind-the-scenes powerhouse who's printing labels. But here's the real question:Is a label considered packaging?Evelio and Adam dig deep into the wild world of labels:Why they’re often overlooked in packaging strategyWhen a label is packaging… and when it’s just decorationThe sustainability questions brands should be asking label printersAnd how this Utah-based king of stick-ons built a label empireThis episode peels back the layers (literally) to reveal the sticky truth about what gets counted in EPR reporting, supply chain compliance, and circular design — and what doesn’t.👑 Come for the crown. Stay for the stickers/labels.Labels just got interesting.💬 Drop a comment: Is a label packaging or not? Let’s settle this.

Today on Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos and Adam Peek are joined by Matthew Wright, the founder of Specright, to uncover a critical but overlooked tool in EPR compliance: specifications management.As states roll out Extended Producer Responsibility laws, brands need accurate reporting and traceability more than ever. Overly complex packaging, multiple tiers of material, and diverse supply chains make data collection a nightmare—unless you're using a platform built for it.In this episode, we’ll explore:What EPR means for suppliers and brands and how confusion around packaging specifications can drive up fees.How centralized spec management platforms (like Specright) help streamline BOM reporting, automatically tracking materials, weights, and flows.Real-world examples of teams avoiding duplicate paperwork, pinpointing problematic materials, and filing returns before deadlines.Why spec data from adhesives and handles to marcom labels and flexible films is foundational to EPR success.Whether you’re a designer, supplier, CPG exec, or sustainability lead, this is the episode you need to watch to ensure your packaging future is built on solid data not guesses.Learn more at www.Specright.com#EPR #packaging

3 packs enter, 1 pack leaves.This isn’t your usual polite packaging panel — this is an all-out brawl. Each host enters the ring with their contender for best packaging of the week. From genius sustainability plays to outrageous luxury flexes, only one design will be crowned victorious.👊 Evelio. Cory. Adam.Each brings one pack.We debate. We defend. We dissect.And at the end — only one survives the chaos to claim the crown.If you love clever design, bold branding, and a little bit of packaging smack talk, you’re in the right place.It’s packaging. But make it war.💥 Watch till the end to see who gets knocked out and who reigns as PACK OF THE WEEK.Want to vote for next week’s winner? Drop your pick in the comments.#PackagingDesign #PackoftheWeek

Did you register your company with CAA for EPR?EPR is not a one-and-done conversation so we’re back with round two.This week on Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors continue the deep dive into Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) with guest Paul Kearns, who helps us dig deeper into the realities brands are facing as reporting deadlines approach and questions keep piling up.We’re expanding the conversation to explore:When does a manufacturer become the producer?How do Incoterms shift responsibility?What packaging really counts under EPR?How should you manage reporting across states with conflicting rules?This isn’t a compliance checklist it’s a survival guide for brands, designers, suppliers, and anyone with their name on a box.Join us as we keep the EPR series going with new questions, clearer answers, and the conversations no one else is having.

Today we’re joined by Liz Morris from Anthesis Group, one of the world’s leading sustainability consultancies, to break down Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) what it is, where it’s going, and what your brand needs to do to stay ahead.With deadlines approaching fast in the US, UK, and EU, and states like Colorado requiring producer data now, brands can’t afford to stay in the dark.We cover:What exactly EPR laws are requiringHow they affect packaging material choicesHow fees will be calculatedHow to prepare your supply chain, design teams, and reporting systemsAnd audience questions from brands who are already deep in itWhether you're in packaging, procurement, sustainability, or compliance this is your must-watch EPR crash course.And yes, bring your questions, because we're playing Can We Solve it!

Aluminum is being called the champion of recyclable packaging but is it the right choice for your brand?In this episode of Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Cory Connors, and Adam Peek debate whether aluminum is the future of sustainable packaging or just another overhyped material swap. From infinite recyclability and lower transport emissions to high production energy and bad consumer UX, we dive into the facts, myths, and use cases that matter in 2025.We cover:Where aluminum works (and why)Where it fails (hard)Why consumers still associate glass with luxuryAnd why aluminum might disrupt the wine aisle, but not the moisturizer shelf.This episode was inspired by the BBC’s reporting on Meadow, Ball, and Vinca’s shift into aluminum formats for everything from wine to shampoo. We break it all down, and give our hot takes.

Today on Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Cory Connors, and Adam Peek break down Colorado’s looming Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) reporting deadline—and why brands selling packaging, paper products, or foodware into the state need to act now.We’ll unpack:What the Circular Action Alliance (CAA) actually does.Why this July 31st deadline matters beyond Colorado.How your packaging data will be used to calculate next year’s Producer Fee Rate Schedule.And why reporting isn’t just a legal checkbox—it’s your ticket to shaping how recycling systems work in the future.Plus, we discuss what this means for brands navigating multiple EPR laws across the U.S., and what you can do today to stay ahead of compliance chaos.If you thought the EPR storm was still on the horizon… it’s already here.

Brad Pitt’s skincare line Le Domaine just dropped new “sustainable” packaging and we’ve got questions.In this episode of Packaging Today, we break down the design decisions behind the reimagined bottles and jars: real wood caps, reduced glass weight, and a brand story steeped in French vineyards and circular luxury.But does luxury wood mean true sustainability?We ask:Is using real oak for a packaging lid actually better for the environment?What bin does a wooden cap go in, and what about the hidden plastic insert that makes it functional?Are these kinds of material choices improving sustainability… or just greenwishing with a celebrity face?Join Adam, Cory, and Evelio as they uncork the truth about Brad Pitt’s Le Domaine packaging one biodegradable cap at a time.

A challenge based on the following items I found together at the side of the road this morning on my walk: 1) A smashed Dunkin'​ plastic cup marked "Drive Thru" and with a label indicating the order was no ice, original coffee, black, two additional espresso shots 2) An empty pack of sugar-free Trident gum3) An empty box of over-the-the counter anti-diarrhealWhat scenario would explain these three items being simultaneously thrown out a car window on a remote dirt road?

This week on Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors crack open the craziest packaging in the industry — starting with none other than Ozzy Osbourne. That’s right, we’re diving into the Prince of Darkness’s most iconic (and absurd?) packaging moments. Is it genius? Is it gothic glam? Or just a hot mess with foil stamping?Then we shift gears into our fan-favorite segment: Can We Solve It? — the fast-paced game show where your wildest packaging questions get tackled live. If we can't solve it, you win a free T-shirt, thanks to our sponsor Smartsolve.com.It's part packaging design breakdown, part game show chaos, and 100% must-watch.Bring your packaging problems and your devil horns. 🤘

On this episode of Packaging Today, we’re digging into the delicious world of meal transport packaging — and how to do it without compromising presentation or sustainability. From elegant pie boxes that cradle your crust like couture, to clever inserts that keep your sauces, soups, and sides in check, we break down what it takes to ship food that actually arrives looking like food.Inspired by stunning concepts like this pie packaging, Evelio, Cory, and Adam discuss how designers can balance protection, presentation, and eco-friendly materials to elevate the entire unboxing experience — even for a lasagna.Whether you’re designing for meal kits, bakeries, or gourmet delivery, this episode will leave you hungry for better structure, better materials, and better ideas.🍽 Packaging for food that travels and delights? Let’s dig in.

ALDI UK just announced a switch from plastic rings to Snap Pack tech for their own-label beer a move that claims to reduce packaging waste by over 100 tonnes per year. But is this really a sustainable upgrade… or just a new version of the same problem?In this episode of Packaging Today, Evelio, Adam, and Cory break down:What Snap Pack packaging is and how it worksHow it stacks up against traditional plastic rings and paperboard toppersThe trade-offs in recyclability, energy use, and user experienceWhether this solution is scalable — or just a limited win for opticsWe’ll also debate what sustainable actually means in 2025 and challenge the idea that “less material” always equals better.Join us as we unpack the snap.

This week on Packaging Today, we’re serving up the packaging industry’s hottest developments—from adhesive trends to ocean cleanup efforts:🔥 Hot Melt Adhesives: Boon or Burden?With the global market now around $9–11 billion and growing at 4–5% CAGR, hot melts are booming across packaging for corrugated, e‑commerce, and more. But does “solvent-free” actually mean more plastic and more waste in your products?🔍 UV‑Tagged Plastic Packaging Hits ShelvesMarks & Spencer (and Aldi in Europe) are testing invisible UV tags on plastic bottles, enabling traceability and real-time recycling data . Could this finally fix contamination in the recycling stream? Or is it just another layer of complexity?🏝️ Bali’s Ban on Small Plastic ScrewsStarting 2026, Bali plans to ban sachets and small single-use plastics to reduce ocean pollution. Can local bans like this actually bend the curve on marine waste and are they replicable elsewhere?📉 Paper Packaging’s Rollercoaster RideU.S. packaging paper shipments are down up to 7% in some months year‑over‑year, despite a slight rebound in June (+5%) . What’s driving this volatility: e‑commerce slowdowns, tariffs, or a pivot to digital? And what does it mean for corrugated brands?Why This MattersAre hot melt adhesives really greener—or just hiding more plastics?Will UV tagging finally make recycling data transparent enough to act on?Can regional plastic bans like Bali’s scale into global policy?What do paper shipment trends signal for packaging design, supply chains, and sustainability strategies?#packaging #sustainability

In today’s episode of Packaging Today, we’re diving into the shiny, guilt-washed world of recycled beauty packaging and asking the tough question: is this actually sustainable, or just another PR pump & dump?We unpack MOB & Credo Beauty’s collaboration with the Pact Collective to create the first-ever lotion pump made from recycled cosmetics packaging, much like Method did years ago with ocean plastics. This is an impressive feat built on 232 tons of waste, hundreds of retail collection points, and a touch of ocean plastic from Malaysia.Cory Connors, Adam Peek, and Evelio Mattos debate:Are recycled stunts like this scalable… or just symbolic?Why most beauty packaging can’t be recycled, and never will be without massive infrastructure changes, or changes to packaging design like MOB.How these high-effort projects highlight the real investments we need: better recycling systems, simplified materials, and smarter regulations.Should designers aim to make packaging precious... or recyclable?We also share what packaging WE would actually keep, what we throw away, and why design for landfill is the default unless we flip the system.🔁 This episode is a must-listen for designers, brand managers, and packaging professionals trying to balance storytelling, sustainability, and real-world scalability.

This week on Packaging Today, it’s a vanilla face-off.In our Pack of the Week segment, we’re putting two pure vanilla extract brands head-to-head: Cook’s and Rodelle. One leans vintage apothecary with heritage typography and gold accents, while the other goes modern organic with crisp white space and botanical illustration.Which bottle tells a richer story?Which one whispers "premium" from the shelf without shouting?And—more importantly—what design cues are they using to justify your $12+ purchase?We break down materials, hierarchy, color theory, and whether or not we’d keep the bottle after the last drop.🎯 In this episode:Why label texture might be more powerful than colorHow Rodelle’s design plays the trust gameThe subconscious nostalgia baked into Cook’s🧠 Tune in for a sharp critique, honest rankings, and inspiration you can use in your next project.

we dive into a story that sounds like science fiction but is very real: scientists are using genetically modified E. coli bacteria to convert plastic waste into paracetamol (acetaminophen). Yep your headache might one day be cured by yesterday’s packaging.We’ll break down:What it could mean for the future of packaging wasteWhether this is just a PR stunt or a real step toward circularityPlus, we cover the latest packaging news, from regulatory shakeups to design trends you need to know. Whether you're an engineer, designer, or supply chain manager, this episode will give you a new lens on what packaging waste could become.Can science actually detox the plastic problem or is it just putting a Band-Aid on a landfill?

Evelio, Adam, and Cory take on your biggest packaging challenges. You send the questions, and we give you the solutions, unless we can’t, in which case... you win a free shirt.We’ll also break down the week’s most important (and weirdest) packaging news, from surprising innovations to eyebrow-raising policy moves.Expect:Real answers to real packaging problemsHot takes on the latest headlinesPackaging trivia, tangents, and occasional geniusWhether you’re a designer, buyer, or just trying to understand why your RFQ never gets answered on time, this one’s for you.

sit down with the founders of Casalú, the bold rum spritz brand making waves across the U.S. beverage scene. We go beyond the can—into the design, branding, and cultural storytelling behind one of the most exciting ready-to-drink (RTD) brands in the market today.Casalú is more than just a drink—it’s a statement. We’ll talk packaging innovation, sustainability choices, can design, and materials, plus the brand’s origins and the latino hustle behind building something fresh in America. Expect real talk, a few laughs, and even some Spanish as we cover:Why Casalú chose aluminum cans and how that impacts recyclability and shelf presenceThe design strategy behind their bold, minimal aestheticHow they’re breaking through in a saturated RTD marketWhat immigrant founders bring to the branding and business worldWhether you're here for packaging inspiration, brand-building insights, or to hear how bold immigrant voices are reshaping the beverage aisle—this is one story you won’t want to miss. ¡Vamos!

In this episode of Packaging Today, Cory Connors, Adam Peek, and Evelio Mattos unpack the popular (and slightly concerning) trend of people who refuse to throw away packaging, yes, even years later. Inspired by a recent VegOut article claiming that hoarders of boxes possess “unique traits,” we ask the real question: Should packaging be designed to be kept… or recycled?We break down:The kinds of packaging people actually keep (and why)Personal stories of packaging we still have (and can’t justify)Whether designers should engineer for attachment or optimize for sustainabilityWhy “collector-worthy” packaging might be sabotaging circularityThis episode is part therapy, part teardown, and fully focused on helping packaging professionals think deeper about how emotional design intersects with environmental responsibility.If you’ve ever saved a box just in case… or want to understand why your customers do... Join us.

In this episode of Packaging Today, we unpack the implications of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” and how it could reshape the U.S. packaging industry—and ripple out globally. From tariffs and deregulation to reshoring and policy shifts, we break down what’s real, what’s hype, and what every packaging buyer, designer, and supplier should be watching.🇺🇸 The Pros:Boost for domestic manufacturing?Potential acceleration of automation and AI in U.S.-based production linesFavorable tax incentives for U.S. packaging operations💥 The Cons:Increased costs for imported raw materials (yes, including paper and board)Uncertainty for global luxury brands producing in Mexico, China, or Eastern EuropeEnvironmental backpedaling on sustainability regulations📦 Whether you're a packaging designer in New York or a factory operator in Jakarta, this bill could change how, and where you produce. Tune in for the facts, the future, and a few hot takes.

Today on the Packaging Today Show, we’re diving into two massive shifts in the world of packaging—one corporate, one legislative—and what they signal for your next packaging move.🧰 Segment 1: IKEA’s Tiny Bag, Big ImpactYou’ve probably never thought twice about the little plastic baggie of bolts and screws in your IKEA furniture box—until now. IKEA is replacing those fitting bags with paper-based alternatives made from wood production waste. Sounds simple, right? But this change could cut 1,400 tons of virgin plastic annually and reshape how brands approach “invisible” packaging. We break down:Why this isn’t just a paper swapHow in-house bag production creates closed-loop potentialThe opportunity this opens up for your brand (yes, even if you're not IKEA)⚖️ Segment 2: Maine’s EPR Law Gets a RewriteMaine led the charge in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws back in 2021—but now it's rewriting the rules. Depending on who you ask, it's either a win for practical recycling or corporate sabotage. We unpack:What the new law actually changesWho’s for it, who’s fighting it, and whyWhat this “shared responsibility model” means for your packaging team📦 Bonus POVs:Why paper packaging isn’t a hero unless it’s actually recycledWhat brands should do today to future-proof against EPR legislationIf you're a packaging designer, sustainability lead, or supply chain manager, this episode is your cheat sheet to understanding where regulations and big-brand moves are pointing the industry next.

It’s Friday, which means it’s time for Pack of the Week on the Packaging Today Show. Today we crack open the wildly illustrative, brand-extending, and licensing-heavy coffee packaging from Bones Coffee Company.

From Star Wars to SpongeBob to mint-chocolate aliens, these packs are more than just loud—they're a masterclass in storytelling and shelf disruption. But is all this surface-level charm hiding some missed opportunities in material choices and sustainable decisions?

🎯 In this episode:

• How Bones Coffee uses licensing to dominate visual real estate

• The structural choices that make this pouch pop (or fall flat)

• Why overprinting and gloss vs matte finishing matter more than you think

• Whether the design aligns with the product—and who the real buyer is

We’re breaking down the full Bones experience: construction, print quality, storytelling, finish, and what other brands can learn (or leave behind).

In today’s episode of Packaging Today Show, we hit the aisle and the inbox.First, we’re breaking down real packaging pulled from the shelf—what nailed it, what failed it, and what we’d change to make it stand out. Then it’s time for everyone’s favorite packaging game show: Can We Solve It?Listeners submit their real-world packaging problems, and if we can’t crack it live on the show, they win the coveted “Packaging Is My Love Language” T-shirt. Spoiler: today’s question stumps us in the best way.You’ll get:Fast design critiques with real-world shelf impactSmart, bite-size design ideas you can steal (or avoid)One big challenge that might just break Adam, Cory's, or Evelio’s brain📦 Send us your design challenge for next week. Think you can stump us?

You won’t believe how much plastic you eat every single day—no, really. In this episode of Packaging Today, we break down two groundbreaking studies exposing the micro- and nanoplastics that contaminate your food through normal packaging use.From chopping boards to bottle caps, deli wraps to canned fish—plastic is shedding into our meals more than ever. But what’s really new here? And how does it compare to everything we’ve already feared?We’ll discuss:New research from the Food Packaging Forum and CNN Health revealing how simply opening packaging can release microplastics into food.How nanoplastics are found in your brain, blood, liver, and even placenta—yes, really.What foods could eliminate plastic packaging entirely (and what tradeoffs consumers would have to accept—like giving up canned convenience, embracing short shelf life, or risking a little botulism…).How ultra-processed foods increase exposure compared to whole foods.Why washing, heating, and reusing plastic makes it worse.💥 Highlight: One study found that just two plastic water bottles can contain over 240,000 plastic particles, 90% of which are nanoplastics. [CNN Health]💡 We'll also unpack the argument that no individual can avoid this alone—it’ll take systemic change and real government action.

In today’s episode of Packaging Today, we’re mixing a bit of news, innovation, and viewer-submitted design to give you a full spectrum of what’s hot—and what’s maybe not—in packaging.Breaking News — State-Level EPR Laws Are HereWe dig into the Food Safety Magazine article detailing the rollout of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws across California, Maine, Washington, and beyond. These new rules could hit every link of the food and beverage supply chain, from brand owners to importers. But are these laws helping drive sustainable progress or just driving up packaging costs?A Plastic That Dissolves in Seawater?!Japan may have just dropped a mic in the fight against marine plastic waste. A new plastic that dissolves in seawater within an hour and biodegrades in soil in just over a week could be a game-changer. But is it ready for prime time—or are we still too addicted to durability?Viewer Submission – Trader Joe’s Fudge PackagingWe showcase and review a real-world example sent in by a viewer. This fudge box from Trader Joe’s gets a design breakdown from Evelio: what works, what could work harder, and why thoughtful coatings and layered storytelling turn this otherwise simple box into a rich experience (pun intended).Instagram Pack of the Week:We also spotlight one of the most culturally rich and visually powerful beer packaging designs in America—Vine Street Brewing’s cans by Whiskey Design. This isn’t just award-winning packaging, it's award-winning storytelling.From The Cookout to Jazzman, we unpack how this Black-owned Kansas City brewery collaborated with a design team that didn’t just decorate cans—they channeled culture, history, and joy into every inch of the brand.🎯 Tune in to hear:Why EPR laws might change how you design food packagingWhether the Japanese seawater-dissolving plastic is genius or greenwashedA live critique of layered storytelling in packaging via a sweet submission📩 Have a question or a brand you'd like us to feature? Drop it in the comments.📺 Subscribe on YouTube to watch us live.🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn.

It’s Friday, and that means it’s time for Pack of the Week—where we break down the smartest, sharpest, and most surprising packaging on shelves right now.Today, we’re diving into the women-owned brand One Trick Pony and their brilliantly inverted peanut butter jars. This isn’t just cute packaging — it’s a functional redesign that solves a major consumer frustration: oil separation in natural nut butters.We break down:The design thinking behind the upside-down jar and leak-proof lidHow it improves consumer experience by eliminating stirring, mess, and resistance to buying natural peanut butterWhy this format helps grow the brand and positions it to compete with legacy players like Skippy and JifThe sustainability story: fewer unused jars, more brand loyalty, and smart material useIts exclusive launch at Whole Foods — and what that signals for challenger brandsHow the bold color blocking and cheeky tone (“One Trick Pony”) create instant shelf pop and memorabilitySpoiler: This is more than a gimmick. It’s a design-led revolution in a tired category.Drop your take in the comments: Is this the future of food packaging, or just a clever pony trick?

incredible Black-owned packaging companies shaping the future of our industry.From materials innovation to luxury brand packaging, these founders and creatives aren’t just breaking barriers — they’re building new standards. We highlight the businesses you need to know, the design leaders you should be following, and the real challenges Black entrepreneurs still face in this space — from funding to visibility to access to major retail accounts.In this episode, we’ll cover:The rise of Black-owned packaging manufacturers, designers, and suppliersHow Black entrepreneurs are leading in sustainability, storytelling, and styleWhy representation in packaging isn’t just good for culture — it’s good for businessWhat brands can do today to diversify their packaging supply chainHow the packaging industry can honor Juneteenth with more than a postJoin us as we celebrate, elevate, and educate — because true innovation doesn’t happen without inclusion.✊🏽 Submit your favorite Black-owned packaging companies in the comments so we can continue to feature and support them.

Today on The Packaging Today Show, we’re covering the stories, trends, and insights shaping the packaging world right now. From material innovations and legislation shake-ups to branding wins and design fails, we’re unpacking it all.We’ll cover:The latest industry headlines you actually need to knowDesign trends worth stealing (or avoiding)New materials making waves in sustainabilitySmart takes on dumb packagingYour questions and hot takes from the communityThis is your daily dose of packaging news, analysis, and entertainment — all in one place.Subscribe, share, and don’t forget: the conversation doesn’t end when the episode does.📩 Drop your comments, questions, and opinions — and let’s shape the future of packaging together.

Do consumers actually care about sustainable packaging? Or are we all just playing along while everyone shops by price?Today on The Packaging Today Show, we’re diving into real 2025 consumer data from McKinsey to unpack the uncomfortable truth about sustainability, design, and buying behavior.Here are the 3 surprising truths we’re covering:🧨 1. Price Always WinsOver 70% of U.S. consumers rank price and quality above environmental impact when making purchase decisions. For the lower and middle class, sustainability is a nice-to-have, not a need—especially when sustainable packaging drives up costs.🧼 2. Sustainability Is a Status SymbolWe’re calling it: for upper-middle class and wealthy consumers, sustainability isn’t about saving the planet. It’s about signal value—the “Tote Bag Effect.” Sustainable packaging is often more about aesthetics, branding, and virtue signaling than genuine demand.🔄 3. Recyclability Matters—But Only Because People Understand It77% of consumers say recyclability is the top indicator of sustainability—but bio-based or low CO₂ packaging? Not even close. If consumers don’t understand it, they won’t value it. If they don’t value it, they won’t pay for it.We’ll also cover:Whether brand owners or consumers feel responsible for sustainable packagingThe real reasons sustainable products often fail at shelfWhat packaging professionals can actually do to design smarter (and sell more)📩 Drop your hot take or question in the comments📺 Subscribe on YouTube to catch us live🔗 Connect on LinkedIn to keep the conversation goingThis episode challenges the echo chamber of green marketing—and forces us to rethink who we’re designing for.

Get into the gritty (and pulpy) world of molded fiber packaging — the material that’s everywhere from Apple boxes to takeout trays. It looks sustainable, it feels premium, but is it actually better for the planet and your bottom line?We break it all down:The Types of molded fiber:Dry-press / Hot-press: smooth, sharp edges, used in high-end consumer electronicsOne-sided tooling: cheaper, more industrial (think egg cartons)Thick-wall: durable, rough finish, often used in protective shippingTransfer molded: medium smoothness, common in food & drink carriersHybrid press-formed: newer, evolving method that blends benefitsThe Process: from slurry to mold to oven to trim — and the variables that impact cost and qualityDesign Requirements:Minimum draft anglesAvoiding undercutsVolume, thickness, and moisture considerationsHow mold cost differs from injection molding or die-cut toolingCost Comparison vs. plastic, corrugated, chipboard, and thermoformSustainability Check:Is it really recyclable or compostable at scale?What happens in landfill?Carbon footprint vs. alternativesWhen It’s Worth It — and when it’s just for the aestheticsWe’ll help you answer:📦 Should your next product launch include molded fiber?♻️ Is it truly sustainable — or just another green-tinted flex?💸 And what are you really paying for?