Custom printed packaging has quickly moved from being a ‘nice-to-have’ to a business essential in Australia. Whether you’re selling skincare, artisan candles, or eco snacks, your packaging says a lot about your brand. It’s not just about keeping the product safe — it's about creating a memorable unboxing experience, especially in the age of Instagram and TikTok.
With the demand for wholesale packaging in Australia on the rise, let’s dive into the top trends you’ll want to embrace in 2025.
1. Sustainability Takes Centre Stage
In a world that’s more environmentally aware than ever, Australians are actively supporting brands with a green conscience. According to a 2023 study by McKinsey, over 60% of Australian consumers prefer sustainable packaging, even if it costs more.
That’s why many businesses are turning to:
- Recyclable and compostable boxes
- Water-based ink printing
- FSC-certified materials
- Reusable packaging solutions
This is also the reason eco-conscious businesses are switching to bulk boxes for packaging that use fewer resources, cost less, and align with carbon reduction goals.
2. Minimalist Design with Maximum Impact
Gone are the days of flashy, overdesigned packaging. Minimalism is trending — think clean layouts, soft earthy tones, and simple logos. Why? Because it communicates sophistication and lets the product speak for itself.
Aussie brands are choosing:
- Single-colour designs with strong typography
- Matte finishes with subtle textures
- Small icons and messaging that reflect values (e.g., cruelty-free, vegan)
Less truly is more, and minimalism helps your products stand out on shelves and scroll feeds alike.
3. Personalisation & Limited Edition Prints
We’re living in the age of personalised experiences, and packaging is no different. Custom names, seasonal editions, and “thank you” notes inside boxes are great for building loyalty.
Brands are creating limited edition packaging for:
- Christmas, Diwali, and EOFY sales
- Local events and markets
- Subscriber milestones
When you’re buying wholesale packaging in Australia, many suppliers offer short-run digital printing, so you don’t have to commit to massive volumes to do something special.
4. Smart Packaging Technology
Smart packaging isn’t sci-fi anymore. It’s real, and Aussie businesses are jumping on board. Think of scannable QR codes that take your customer to a “how to use” video, or an AR experience that shows your brand story in 3D.
Top innovations include:
- QR codes linking to digital experiences
- NFC tags for authenticity
- RFID chips for inventory tracking
These technologies work wonders in eCommerce where storytelling and trust are key.
5. Bold Typography & Creative Fonts
Typography is making a comeback, not just in websites but in packaging too. More brands are using type as a visual design element — making the product name bold, big, and beautiful.
Fonts now reflect brand identity:
- Elegant serif fonts for premium goods
- Rounded sans-serif fonts for friendly, eco-brands
- Handwritten styles for artisanal products
It’s a fun and easy way to add personality without increasing printing costs.
6. Textured & Tactile Printing Finishes
Nothing beats the feeling of a high-quality box in your hands. Textured packaging is becoming a go-to for brands wanting to elevate their perceived value — especially for luxury skincare, perfumes, or boutique alcohol.
Here are some popular finishes:
- Foil stamping for logos or text
- Embossing/debossing to add depth
- Spot UV for glossy accents
In fact, brands using premium finishes have reported up to a 30% increase in repurchase rates (source: Packaging Strategies Australia, 2023).
7. Custom Die-Cuts and Unique Box Shapes
A uniquely shaped box is more than just eye-catching — it’s also a great way to reduce void space and packaging material.
Examples include:
- Triangle or hexagon boxes for special editions
- Windows that show a peek of the product
- Compartments for multiple items in one box
When buying bulk boxes for packaging, many Australian suppliers offer die-cutting options for custom shapes without crazy high minimum orders.
8. Digital Printing on Demand
Short runs are in demand — especially for startups or product testing. Digital printing offers quick turnaround and low minimums, with vibrant results.
Why digital?
- Perfect for seasonal promotions
- Cost-effective for small businesses
- Lower environmental impact than traditional offset
It’s also ideal for local businesses who want to source packaging fast from wholesale packaging suppliers in Australia.
9. Packaging as a Storytelling Tool
People buy stories, not just products. That’s why packaging is now being used as a storytelling platform. From your brand’s purpose to behind-the-scenes peeks, every element can speak volumes.
Ways to use packaging for storytelling:
- Add your origin story inside the box flap
- Print quotes or thank you notes under lids
- Include QR codes that link to "About Us" videos
This turns your box into a powerful brand ambassador — one your customers want to share.
10. Compliance & Labelling Trends in Australia
In Australia, packaging isn’t just about looks — it also needs to follow labelling rules. With the rise of the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL), more businesses are now expected to clearly show recyclability info.
What’s trending?
- Clear expiry and ingredient labelling
- ARL for recyclability
- QR-based nutritional or safety info
This is especially important in industries like food, health, and cosmetics, where compliance builds trust.
11. E-commerce & Subscription Box Packaging
The eCommerce boom is not slowing down. In 2024, Australians spent over $64 billion online, and with that comes a growing demand for sturdy, branded packaging.
Subscription boxes are also thriving — from skincare to pet supplies. These need strong, good-looking boxes that survive postage and make a good impression.
Features of top-performing boxes:
- Tear-proof corrugated walls
- Custom logo prints with water-resistant ink
- Printed inserts and thank you cards
Most brands order bulk boxes for packaging monthly to keep up with demand and maintain consistency.
Final Thoughts
Custom printed packaging is no longer just about packing — it’s an extension of your brand. From eco-conscious options to tech-integrated boxes, Aussie businesses now have more choices than ever.
Whether you're a startup selling handmade soaps or a nationwide brand shipping thousands of units, embracing these trends will not only boost your brand image — it’ll help your bottom line too.
And if you’re sourcing from wholesale packaging suppliers in Australia, don’t forget to ask about short runs, eco options, and die-cut services to stay ahead of the game
