As the beverage industry experiences unprecedented shifts driven by consumer demand, sustainability imperatives, and technological evolution, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, has released the latest findings from its 2025 Beverage Industry Packaging Trends white paper and companion infographic. 

These findings highlight a surge in investment and innovation — insights that will come to life this fall at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2025. This tradeshow, produced by PMMI, will take place September 29 – October 1 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

According to PMMI’s research, 68% of beverage companies anticipate moderate to significant increases in packaging machinery investments over the next two to three years. Plus, nearly 90% are planning to purchase equipment. These investments are fueled by a trio of major factors: company expansion, consumer demand, and advancements in technology.

“Our latest beverage packaging trends report confirms what many in the industry already sense — this is a transformative moment,” says Jorge Izquierdo, vice president, market development, PMMI. “We’re seeing rapid innovation in formats, materials, and machinery, driven by consumer demand and sustainability goals. Pack Expo Las Vegas is the place where these trends translate into action — where ideas turn into strategies and solutions.”

Equipment priorities

Among a host of equipment priorities:

1. Filling, capping, and closing systems (62%)
2. Conveying, feeding, and handling equipment (51%)
3. Palletizing and load stabilization (50%)
4. Coding, labeling, and printing technologies (46%)

Consumer preferences are reshaping packaging strategies, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and recyclability. PMMI’s white paper notes a projected decrease in rigid plastic and glass use, alongside notable increases in paper-based (+43%), flexible packaging (+30%), and liquid cartons (+16%).

Companies are also adapting packaging formats to cater to single-serve, ready-to-drink, and health-focused beverages, too. These often include mocktails, nutraceuticals, and THC-infused drinks. Oftentimes, product trends necessitate more versatile machinery capable of handling new SKUs, packaging formats, and materials.

Challenges

While the outlook is optimistic, beverage manufacturers also face ongoing challenges. These include:

1. Inflation (68%)
2. Supply chain disruptions (45%)
3. Sustainability and regulatory compliance (39%)
4. Talent acquisition and retention (35%)

Meanwhile, technology integration is viewed as the most positive driver of future growth, helping producers adapt to these hurdles with smarter, more intuitive equipment.