Interview with Nerida Kelton

Dynamic

Biggest packaging trend in 2025? Assume you mean 2026?
We are seeing a number of key areas within packaging design that are evolving including designing Mono Material packaging to ensure recyclability, building in recycled content, reducing unnecessary packaging and also advancing fibre alternatives.

AI is new to the industry for packaging design and is in its infancy. It should be seen as an enabler for packaging to intersect with qualified technical packaging technologists. I believe that AI will also be able to help smaller businesses with their design.

I would like to see in the next few years a link between AI for packaging design and recyclability software so that the packaging is not just aesthetically pleasing for consumers, but is truly fit for purpose, functional and designed to be recycle ready.
 

A critical part of ensuring that packaging is circular by design and can be recycled and reprocessed at end of life back into future packaging

Your go-to source for Packaging inspiration?
The Australasian Institute of Packaging is one of the leading peak professional bodies in the world for qualified technical qualifications, degrees and courses, so if you are looking for technical training then the AIP is the answer for Australia, new Zaland and South East Asia. The World packaging Organisation is the global federation of 66 associations across the world and is a fantastic network to learn from others in all corners of the globe. The network is incredible.

Developing the Save Food Packaging design guidelines with the AIP in Australia and now seeing them being globalised by the WPO. The Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) Save Food Packaging Design Criteria provide guidelines to help designers minimise food waste across the supply chain and at the consumer level. The framework is built around key packaging functions designed to extend shelf life and enhance usability.  Save Food Packaging is designed to minimise or prevent food waste from paddock to plate using innovative and intuitive design features that can contain & protect, preserve, extend shelf life; all the while meeting global sustainable packaging targets.
 

Smart packaging is often underrated and overlooked

Set deadlines for everything

Coffee with my cat

To see marketing, packaging technologists, industrial designers, procurement and sustainability teams collaborate more on developing packaging.

To see more Save Food Packaging and Accessible & Inclusive packaging designed across the globe

Every day is a school day and you never stop learning in this industry

Thank you for your time and for your continued contribution to advancing knowledge-sharing within the packaging industry. We greatly appreciate your insights and look forward to receiving your thoughtful responses.