As the packaging industry enters 2026, food and drink brands face a clear shift — sustainability, technology and design are no longer “nice to have”. They’re expected.
At Croxsons, we’ve been helping brands navigate that evolution for more than 150 years — delivering packaging that connects craftsmanship with innovation across glass bottles, jars, closures and decoration. Here are the key packaging trends shaping the next 12 months — and what they mean for glass packaging.
1. Sustainability is the new baseline
Eco-friendly packaging has evolved from a differentiator into a baseline expectation. Consumers now assume that brands are taking meaningful steps to reduce their footprint.
For glass, this means lighter designs, more recycled content and sustainable closures. Croxsons is working with its partners to develop bottles to the rightweight® — combining sustainability and performance without compromise.
“Sustainability isn’t a department. It’s our design philosophy. Weight needs to be reduced in glass, but it needs to be done while maintaining performance and quality.” – Tim Croxson, CEO
2. AI-enabled QR codes for connected packaging
The humble QR code is evolving. AI-enhanced versions can now blend seamlessly into artwork, unlocking interactive cocktail recipes, food pairings and brand experiences.
For food and beverage brands, these codes create meaningful moments long after the bottle is opened — strengthening loyalty through digital storytelling.
“Smart packaging bridges the physical and digital worlds. It turns every bottle into a platform for engagement.” – George O’Brien, Commercial Director
3. Rightweight®: reducing packaging weight responsibly
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules are making packaging efficiency more important than ever. Brands are looking to reduce material use and transportation impact without losing visual appeal.
Croxsons’ rightweight® approach allows premium food and drink producers to adopt lighter glass while maintaining the integrity and tactile quality consumers expect.
“Every gram removed saves energy and emissions across the supply chain — that’s smart sustainability in action.” – Paul McGrane, Sales & Marketing Director
4. Bold colours and playful fonts
Vibrant palettes and expressive typography are set to dominate 2026 packaging design. This “dopamine branding” trend helps products stand out both on shelf and online.
Glass remains the perfect canvas for enabling creative finishes like embossing, screen-printing and metallic decoration that elevate visual impact.
“Brands are being braver with colour and form. Glass gives them timeless quality and creative freedom.” – Tim Croxson
5. Nostalgia and cultural storytelling
Retro inspiration continues to thrive. Vintage fonts, classic colourways and heritage-style labels tap into emotion and authenticity.
In glass packaging, these elements can be expressed through embossed motifs or collector-edition bottles that tell a brand’s cultural story.
“Nostalgia isn’t about the past — it’s about rekindling connection. Great packaging tells stories people want to hold onto.” – George O’Brien
6. Reusable and secondary-use structures
Circularity is shaping design decisions. Brands are increasingly asking how their packaging can enjoy a second life. Whether as a reusable jar, a decanter, or decorative glassware. Who doesn’t love a leftover ramekin?
Croxsons can work with clients to understand how they want to build reuse into design, from structure to decoration, helping reduce waste while enhancing brand value.
7. Accessibility and inclusivity
Inclusive design is no longer optional. Packaging in 2026 will prioritise ergonomics, tactile surfaces and hyper-legible labels to make products usable by everyone.
Integrating textured grips, Braille embossing and easy-open designs into glass packaging are ways to improve accessibility across the market, combining empathy and aesthetics.
8. The rise of single-serve formats
Smaller formats continue to grow in popularity as consumers seek moderation and convenience. Mini spirit bottles, small-batch sauces and single-serve desserts all benefit from rightweight, recyclable glass that delivers premium quality without excess.
“Single-serve formats reduce waste and open up new opportunities. They’re proof that less can be more.” – Paul McGrane
Looking ahead: innovation with integrity
These trends highlight one truth — packaging is becoming a reflection of brand values. For Croxsons, every jar and bottle is an opportunity to combine beauty, performance and responsibility.
“Trends come and go, but integrity, service and innovation endure. We’ll keep helping brands design packaging that connects with people and the planet.” – Tim Croxson
If you want support in your packaging journey, then email us at hello@croxsons.com