Packaging Innovation and Growth in Plant-Based Beverages

At the end of May, during the PLMA ‘World of Private Label’ trade show in Amsterdam, more than 2,800 companies from 120 countries gathered to discuss current trends in food and packaging. While the event may not be the most trendsetting or glamorous on the calendar, it still provides a valuable opportunity to connect with key players, producers, and manufacturers. One such participant was Tetra Pak, which joined the conversations to share its vision of sustainable packaging and highlight the importance of collaboration in the development of plant-based beverages.

According to the manufacturer, four major themes emerged :

Sustainable packaging: Sustainability stood out as a central theme, with a strong focus on upcoming European regulations (PPWR). Companies showcased packaging designed to be circular, incorporating recyclable or reusable materials, optimized designs, and clear end-of-life strategies.
Accelerating innovation through co-packing and E2E services: The use of integrated services covering design, production, and packaging enables faster product development. This model is especially beneficial for startups or brands without in-house production capabilities.
The growing plant-based market: The vegetable and legume sector is experiencing structured growth, with a broader range focused on taste, quality, and nutritional value. Packaging plays a crucial role in both product preservation and consumer perception.
The increasing role of private labels in innovation: Retailers are actively involved in developing sustainable solutions and new formulations, often in collaboration with subcontractors and tech companies. In some cases, they are even outpacing national brands when it comes to innovation.

Nicolas Aubert, Business Development Director at Tetra Pak, commented on the current outlook: "The private label market is undergoing a major transition. Brands and retailers want to move faster, without compromising on sustainability, taste, or quality."

Author : Giorgi Sabanadze

In collaboration with GreenBridge

Packaging Plma Tetra Pak