How can food and FMCG brands prepare for the future of packaging?

The food and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors are undergoing significant change. New sustainability regulations, evolving consumer behaviour and expectations, digital technologies, like artificial intelligence, and increasing packaging requirements are transforming how products are packaged, marketed and delivered. To help businesses adapt, Mondi works with food manufacturers, brands and retailers to develop packaging solutions that support compliance, innovation and long-term growth.  

Drawing on insights shared by Thomas Ott, CEO Flexible Packaging, and Paulus Goëss, COO Corrugated Solutions, in an interview with Lebensmittel Zeitung, this article explores some of the key questions businesses are asking about the future of packaging. 

How does Mondi support FMCG and food customers? 

Mondi supports food and FMCG customers with a broad range of packaging solutions tailored to different products, markets and supply chains. Following the acquisition of Schumacher Packaging´s Western European assets, we have further strengthened our presence in Germany and Western Europe with an expanded offering.

Alongside our established portfolio of flexible packaging solutions, we now offer a full portfolio of corrugated and solid board packaging, as well as additional printing technologies, including digital printing. This enables Mondi to provide integrated packaging solutions from a single source, helping food and FMCG customers improve efficiency and respond to changing market requirements. 

How does Mondi develop innovative packaging solutions? 

Innovation is a key driver of packaging success. Through Mondi’s ThinkBox and FlexStudios in Germany, we collaborate closely with customers to develop, test and validate new packaging concepts.These customer innovation centres enable rapid prototyping and product development, helping customers bring new innovative solutions to market faster. Examples range from high-performance barrier papers to paper-based alternatives designed to meet both product protection and sustainability requirements.

How will the PPWR impact the packaging industry? 

The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) plays a significant role in shaping the future of the packaging industry in Europe. The regulation aims to support a more circular economy by promoting packaging that is recyclable, resource-efficient and designed to reduce waste.  

Mondi has been preparing for these changes for several years by aligning our research, development activities and product portfolio with evolving regulatory requirements. Because of this, we work closely with customers to help them understand upcoming regulations and identify packaging solutions that support compliance while meeting business objectives. 

What role do AI and digitalisation play in the packaging industry? 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important across the packaging value chain. At Mondi, AI supports applications ranging from manufacturing process optimisation to packaging development and innovation.  

By using digital models and data-driven analysis, Mondi can accelerate development processes and bring packaging innovations to market more quickly. AI is also expected to influence how consumers discover, shop and make purchasing decisions, creating new opportunities and requirements for brands and packaging providers. 

How are consumer trends changing packaging requirements?  

Consumer preferences continue to evolve, creating new demands for food and FMCG packaging. Trends such as high-protein products, ready-to-eat meals and the growth of eCommerce are influencing how products are packaged, transported and presented.  

To respond to this change, we work closely with leading food manufacturers, brands and retailers to identify emerging market trends early and respond with innovative packaging solutions. By combining innovation with technical expertise, we develop packaging solutions that meet the needs of our customers while also responding to evolving consumer expectations.

The full interview with Thomas Ott and Paulus Goëss was published in Lebensmittel Zeitung, Issue 27 (3 July 2026), under the headline “Es ist wichtig, dass die PPWR in Kraft tritt” and can be read on the Lebensmittel Zeitung website. Please note that a paid subscription is required to access the article. 

Read the full interview: Lebensmittel Zeitung – “Es ist wichtig, dass die PPWR in Kraft tritt”