The FMCG sector is one of the most competitive spaces in the market, and packaging—specifically label design—plays a critical role in capturing consumer attention.

As we step into 2025, staying ahead of design trends isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about aligning with consumer values, creating standout shelf presence, and driving engagement.

Here, we explore the key label design trends shaping the market this year and how you can adapt to stay ahead.

1. Maximalism

For years, minimalism has dominated packaging design, with its clean lines and pared-back visuals signalling transparency and sophistication. However, bold, maximalist designs are making a resurgence, characterised by vibrant colours, layered textures, and intricate details.

Both trends have the ability to coexist, catering to different consumer demographics and preferences.

Impact on the Market:

• • Minimalist designs appeal to consumers looking for simplicity, sustainability, and transparency in brand messaging.
  • Maximalist labels attract attention in saturated markets, particularly among younger, trend-conscious consumers (e.g., Gen Z). As Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha make more buying decisions, as well as being in decision-making positions within brands, we can expect to see more playful packaging for 2025 and beyond.

How Brands Can React:

Understand your target audience and align your design approach with their preferences. For example, food brands may embrace bold maximalist designs, while eco-friendly brands might benefit from minimalist aesthetics.

2. Smart Labels and Connected Packaging

As consumers demand more transparency and engagement, smart labels have evolved from a niche feature to a must-have for innovative brands. QR codes, NFC chips, and augmented reality (AR) are being integrated into packaging to tell compelling stories, provide product information, or offer interactive experiences.

This fits hand-in-hand with the younger generations becoming decision-makers at brands and in the home.

Impact on the Market:

• • Enhanced engagement through storytelling, traceability (e.g., origins of materials), and product education. As consumers look for brands to place their loyalties, they will look for brands with a story that they can buy into and learn more about.
  • The continuous growth of interactivity in packaging leads to increased data collection opportunities for brands to refine customer experiences and marketing strategies.

How Brands Can React:

Invest in smart labelling technology and link it to digital platforms where consumers can learn more about the brand, view tutorials, or access loyalty programs.

Ensure the presence of interactive packaging is intuitive and aligns with the overall aesthetic. Avoid making them an afterthought.

3. Sustainability and Eco-Innovation

Sustainability is no longer an optional consideration—it’s a baseline expectation. Consumers are scrutinising brands’ environmental practices, and labels must reflect this commitment. Eco-friendly materials, such as compostable films and recycled paper, along with water-based inks, are becoming standard choices for forward-thinking FMCG brands.

Transparent communication of sustainability practices on labels will also be a key design element.

Impact on the Market:

• • Increasing consumer preference for brands that demonstrate eco-consciousness.
  • Retailers demanding compliance with sustainability goals, including recyclable and compostable packaging.

How Brands Can React:

Incorporate sustainable materials like compostable films, recycled paper, or bio-based adhesives.

Clearly highlight eco-credentials on labels, such as certifications or carbon footprint data, to appeal to conscious consumers.

Another way to reinforce this messaging is by utilising earthy tones and natural textures.

4. Change of Designs due to Regulation Changes

Another key label design trend for 2025 will be the adaptation and change of label designs due to regulation changes. The upcoming CLP Regulation changes will mean that brands must adapt their packaging and labelling design. This includes increases in font sizes, changes in number of languages on labels and reduced space on labels.

Impact on the Market:

• • The CLP revision will lead to a large number of brands in the chemical, healthcare and cleaning industries changing their packaging and labelling.
  • These changes will also result in a need for more space on labels and design real estate becomes sparce.

How Brands Can React:

• • Partner with a trusted Reprographics partner to assist your brand in making the required changes.
  • Consider using extended content labels such as booklet or peel and read labels to create more space on your packaging.

5. Textured and Tactile Labels

Labels that engage the senses don’t just look great—they create a memorable brand experience.

Textured finishes, raised patterns, soft-touch coatings, and even thermochromic inks (which change colour with temperature) are gaining popularity, especially in premium categories like wine, spirits, and personal care.

Impact on the Market:

• • Differentiates products on crowded shelves, particularly in luxury segments like wine and spirits.
  • Encourages consumer interaction, leading to higher retention and brand recall.

How Brands Can React:

Consider sensory experiences that align with your product to maximise the impact of this trend.

Work with printing and packaging experts to experiment with textured finishes using varnishes, embossing or foil details.

Use tactile features strategically to communicate premium quality or brand identity.

6. Bold Typography and Playful Illustrations

One of the key label design trends for 2025 is bold and playful designs! Typography is taking center stage in label design, with oversized fonts, unconventional letterforms, and creative layouts dominating the landscape. Meanwhile, hand-drawn illustrations are injecting personality and charm into packaging, offering an authentic and approachable feel.

Impact on the Market:

• • Attracts attention in crowded spaces like retail shelves and e-commerce platforms.
  • Resonates with younger consumers who value creativity and authenticity.

How Brands Can React:

Collaborate with artists to create unique, custom illustrations or lettering for your brand.

Ensure that your typography choices aligns with your brand tone and target audiences—bold and modern for innovation-focused products, soft and playful for artisanal or family-oriented products. A bold type choice isn’t for everyone!

7. Transparent and No-Label Aesthetics

Clean, transparent labels or “no-label” looks continue to be popular, particularly for food, beverage, and skincare products. These designs emphasise the product itself rather than overwhelming it with graphics.

Impact on the Market:

• • Appeals to health-conscious and sustainability-focused consumers who value authenticity.
  • Boosts product visibility and shelf appeal.

How Brands Can React:

Use clear materials and minimalist designs to create a “no-label” effect while ensuring important information (e.g., compliance details) is legible.

Consider the interplay between product colour and label design to enhance overall aesthetics.

To tie this trend in with the trend of sustainability, explore All4Labels STARDirect ‘no-label look’ solution, which significantly reduces plastic and waste by eliminating printing substrates. The patented technology offers improved design flexibility, supports lower CO₂ emissions, and enables opportunities to improve reuse and recycling.

Conclusion: Staying Competitive in 2025

As competition intensifies, the brands that thrive will be those that prioritise innovation and authenticity in their label design strategies. Designers and marketers must work collaboratively to balance functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability while leveraging the latest technologies to deliver unforgettable consumer experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Experiment with digital printing and packaging mock-up services to test designs and run short production batches for market trials.
• Partner with forward-thinking printing specialists who can offer a variety of printing methods, sustainable materials, and advanced finishes.
• Embrace design trends that align with your brand values and resonate with your target audience.

By staying ahead of these trends, FMCG brands can elevate their packaging, capture consumer attention, and drive brand loyalty in 2025 and beyond.

Do you have a new packaging project coming up? Get in touch with our team to find out how our services can increase efficiencies in your project management!