The labelling industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, sustainability efforts, and the increasing need for personalised consumer products. Businesses must stay ahead of these trends to remain competitive and compliant. Here are the key labelling trends to watch in 2025.
Smart Labels & IoT Integration
Smart labels are labels that incorporate technology to hold more information than a traditional barcode. Smart labels with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), NFC (Near Field Communication), and QR codes are being increasingly used across many industries. These technologies provide real-time data tracking, enhanced security, and interactive customer engagement. Businesses can use smart labels for inventory and asset management, anti-counterfeiting measures, and consumer transparency.
Sustainable Labelling Solutions
Sustainability remains a top priority and businesses are increasingly looking for more sustainable labelling solutions. This increased demand comes from consumer pressure as well as more stringent environmental regulations. In 2025, expect to see:
- Label materials enabling re-using, recycling or composting of packaging
- Label materials containing recycled or renewable content
- Label materials that demonstrate they have been responsibly sourced
- Minimalist packaging with smaller labels
Regulatory and Compliance Changes
New regulations on product transparency, sustainability, and consumer safety are influencing labelling practices. In 2025, businesses should prepare for:
- Stricter ingredient and allergen labelling requirements.
- Enhanced traceability regulations in food and beverage industries.
- Standardization of digital labelling formats for better consumer understanding.
Personalization at Scale
With digital printing advancements, brands can now offer highly personalized labels tailored to individual preferences. Trends include:
- Variable data printing (VDP): Allowing mass customization of labels with unique names, messages, or designs.
- On-demand printing: Reducing waste and allowing brands to create seasonal, regional, or promotional labels quickly
Tamper-Evident and Security Labels
Security and consumer safety concerns are driving increased demand for tamper-evident labels, this is especially true in industries including pharmaceuticals and luxury items . Key developments include:
- Void and destructible labels: Indicating when a product has been tampered with.
- Holographic security seals: Providing an additional layer of authentication to tackle counterfeiting
The future of labelling in 2025 is marked by a blend of technological innovation, sustainability, compliance, personalisation and security. Brands that embrace these trends will be well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the market and foster stronger connections with their customers.