Why the grocery store of the future could have more mini cans and personal packs
The future of food packaging is petit. While warehouse stores offering food and household items in bulk will always have a draw among consumers looking for volume discounts, the grocery store of 2035 could look different from today’s, with tinier packaging on its shelves, according to a new report . Unlike stealth shrinkflation , which packs less product into the same sized package for the same…
As consumer trends evolve, the future of food packaging could involve smaller, more personal-sized cans and packs in grocery stores, according to a recent report. While bulk buying at warehouse stores will persist, smaller packaging units will become a selling point, rather than a stealth tactic to reduce product volume. Unlike downsizing through shrinkflation, the new trend emphasizes selling smaller portions as a value proposition.
NielsenIQ, a consumer intelligence company, warns that traditional packaging strategies like upselling and pantry loading are becoming less relevant and manufacturers must rethink their packaging to meet shifting consumer demands. Household sizes have been decreasing due to economic pressures, and 21% of households now include people on GLP-1 medications, leading to changing consumption patterns.
As food-at-home prices rise, smaller packs, trial sizes, mini cans, and portioned servings are becoming increasingly appealing. These smaller packages can help lower upfront costs, improve storage, reduce waste, and better match the amount consumers intend to consume. Major CPG companies like PepsiCo and Campbell's have already begun testing smaller units, with PepsiCo introducing mini cans at a low price point and considering new pack sizes for other beverages.
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