I undertook a compete research project for trade show organizer easyFairs, designing a survey questionnaire that was sent out to the easyFairs packaging database in six languages (English, Dutch, German, Spanish, French and Swedish). We received 2600 responses from 16 countries. I analysed the results and wrote the report. Mike Sussex did a nice job on the design and we got sponsorship from top UK trade magazine Packaging News.

Some findings:

• Apple & Coca-Cola as most influential brands in packaging.
• Roland ten Klooster is considered the top European thought leader in packaging.
• Two thirds of companies update their packaging at least once every two years.
• Investment in packaging is holding firm despite the recession – companies that plan to increase investment outnumber those planning to decrease.
• Many packaging consumers now see sustainability as part of their brand.
• Germany is (by far) Europe’s leader on sustainable packaging.

The survey also covers the main drivers of innovation in packaging and examines which materials are « hot » and which are in relative decline.

More information at www.easyfairs.com