The packaging industry is undergoing a seismic transformation, driven by an influx of fresh talent, innovative ideas, and a continued focus on sustainability. As the sector evolves to meet the demands of an increasingly demanding market, collaboration and education have emerged as pivotal forces in shaping its future. At the heart of this movement are the students and educators from apprenticeship programs who are redefining what it means to work in packaging.

Peter Macqueen, associate head and lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, will moderate a panel at Packaging Innovations and Empack that includes industry professionals and rising stars such as Eva Smith, Raw Material & Packaging Specialist at Müller; Emily Murphy, Lead Packaging Designer at Kellanova Europe; Olivia Tomlinson, Packaging Specialist at Nestlé; Azucena Gomez Lopez, course leader and lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, and Erica Davison, Packaging Design and Sustainability Apprentice at GSK.

“We’re seeing an industry that’s trending younger for the first time in a long time,” says Macqueen. “Historically, it’s been quite a static workforce, but that’s changing as we focus on sustainability and innovation.”

This shift is evident in the experiences of students like Erica Davison, who joined the packaging sector after witnessing its complexities during a gap year in retail. “Seeing the amount of waste in packaging was eye-opening. The industry must innovate to reduce its environmental impact,” she says.

For Davison, the apprenticeship has provided a platform to learn, collaborate, and envision a sustainable future.

A Sector in Transition

Over the past decade, the packaging industry has seen a gradual but significant shift. As traditional practices give way to more sustainable and innovative approaches, companies are rethinking how they attract and retain talent. Apprenticeships have become a vital component of this strategy, offering a pathway for individuals to gain hands-on experience while contributing fresh perspectives.

Peter Macqueen highlights how these changes are reshaping the workforce: “Good quality universal design isn’t about inclusion; it’s about minimising exclusion. We’re not just bringing in new people but fundamentally altering how we approach problem-solving, making the industry more reflective of the diverse consumer base it serves.”

The push toward sustainability has also been a catalyst for change. With increasing scrutiny from both consumers and regulators, packaging companies are under pressure to innovate. This has created exciting opportunities for newcomers like Erica to make meaningful contributions early in their careers.

Collaboration as a Catalyst

Collaboration has always been essential in the packaging industry, but its importance has never been greater. Within apprenticeship programs, collaboration is fostering a culture of shared learning and innovation. Students from diverse backgrounds come together to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and develop solutions that address real-world challenges.

“It’s amazing to see professionals grow and take on tougher decisions,” shares Sheffield Hallam University lecturer Azucena Gomez Lopez. “We’ve created a culture of sharing and collaboration within the classroom, and now the challenge is to expand this beyond the classroom to foster greater industry-wide progress.”

Eva Smith, Raw Material & Packaging Specialist at Müller, underscores the transformative power of this approach: “Learning from others has changed the way I approach my work. Collaboration within the cohort has been incredibly valuable, allowing us to draw on each other’s strengths and experiences.”

This collaborative spirit extends beyond the classroom. As apprentices return to their workplaces, they bring with them not only new skills but also a mindset that values teamwork and innovation. This has a ripple effect, encouraging their colleagues to embrace similar approaches.

Sustainability: A Driving Force

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in the packaging industry – it is a business imperative. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to create packaging solutions that are not only functional but also environmentally friendly. However, this transition is not without its challenges.

“Balancing sustainability and cost is a challenge,” acknowledges Smith. “But the mindset and expertise in the industry give me hope that we’re on the right track.”

For Davison, the journey toward sustainability is both inspiring and daunting. She says, “The industry must innovate to reduce its environmental impact. It’s exciting to be part of this movement and to contribute to solutions that make a difference.”

The push for sustainability is also reshaping supply chains. Companies are reevaluating material choices, production processes, and logistics to align with circular economy principles. This requires not only technical expertise but also a willingness to experiment and take risks.

The Role of Education and Training

Educational programs are playing a critical role in equipping professionals with the skills they need to navigate this complex landscape. Apprenticeships, in particular, offer a novel blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing students to tackle industry challenges head-on.

“It’s amazing to see professionals grow and take on tougher decisions,” says Azucena Gomez Lopez. “They’re becoming more confident and capable of addressing industry challenges, from sustainability to innovation.”

Students like Davison and Smith have found these programs to be transformative. “The apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity,” says Davison. “Collaboration is key to personal and professional development, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.”

Davison echoes this sentiment, saying, “Learning from others has changed the way I approach my work. The cohort’s diverse perspectives have been incredibly valuable in helping me think differently about the challenges we face.”

The Future of Packaging

Looking ahead, the packaging industry is poised for even greater transformation. Advances in technology, coupled with a growing emphasis on sustainability, are creating new opportunities for innovation.

“The best is yet to come,” states Macqueen. “In the next few years, we’ll see real innovation. People will walk down the aisle and stop, saying, ‘Wow, I’ve never seen that before.’ If that packaging is more sustainable, cost-effective, and quicker to produce, that’s a game-changer.”

For students, like Davison, the future is filled with possibilities. “I’m excited to see where this apprenticeship journey takes me,” she says. “The opportunities are endless, and I’m motivated to make a difference.”

Smith shares this optimism, noting, “Innovation is key to creating a safer, more sustainable planet. I look forward to contributing to this journey and seeing how the industry evolves.”

As the packaging industry continues to evolve, collaboration will remain a cornerstone of its success. Whether it’s through educational programs, industry events, or cross-sector partnerships, the ability to work together will be critical in overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities.