The COVID-19 outbreak saw the UK government impose a nation-wide lockdown that began on 23 March. People following the UK government’s edict to stay at home and the closure of foodservice venues have caused a sharp shift in where people eat, with most people now consuming all their meals and snacks at home. This has fed through to increased demand for packaging for that food.

The spotlight on plastic packaging waste has put packaging firmly on consumers’ and the government’s agenda. With multiple factors contributing to the overall environmental footprint of packaging, consumers are failing in many areas to grasp the complexities of the issue, focusing instead on the most visible and tangible aspects of packaging, such as recyclability and packaging waste ending up in the environment.

Promisingly, interest in a rating system for sustainable packaging suggests potential for a dialogue in this space and scope to move consumer focus towards the all-important product lifecycle impact, which currently holds little sway.

• The impact of COVID-19 on consumer behaviour and demand for food packaging.

• Industry strategies on food packaging and launch activity trends.

• Packaging attributes of most importance to consumers.

• Information checked most on food packaging when shopping.

• Consumer behaviours and attitudes relating to food packaging.

This Report examines NPD and consumer trends in the UK market for food packaging in relation to consumer products. This includes outer and inner packaging purchased with products, but excludes packaging used for bulk transportation and industrial purposes.

This Report does not follow the usual format of Mintel Reports due to the nature of the industry. For example, the large number of suppliers in the industry means that it is not applicable to include a section on manufacturer/brand share data, while a section on market size is not included due to the absence of consumer-facing sales of packaging as a standalone product.