In recent times, flexible packaging has had mixed perceptions from both consumers and designers alike. However, a positive opinion of flexible continues to improve, and more and more products are becoming available in flexible formats.

The daily trek to the mailbox has evolved over the last few years, courtesy of the world wide web. Walks filled with anticipation to check for college acceptance letters have since been replaced with anxious moments sitting in front of a computer screen. Rummaging through a stack of mail to discover a letter from a friend has been swapped with the immediate access to countless snapchats. Today’s mailbox is seemingly reserved for piles of junk mail, bills and, if you’re lucky, the occasional wedding invitation.

By now, you’ve most likely heard the term the “Internet of things (IoT).” But, what exactly does it mean? Simply put, the phrase coined by innovator and sensor expert, Kevin Ashton, refers to the connecting of devices to the internet and/or each other. This includes almost anything with an on/off switch from cell phones, coffee makers and washing machines to headphones, lamps and wearable devices.

There is no denying it, the renaissance of craft beer is here! As of 2016, more than 5,000 breweries could be found scattered across the United States. Small, local, and independent craft breweries making up nearly 99 percent of them. This influx of interest in tasting local brews has had an immense impact on the local and national economies.

Understanding packaging trends is an essential part of knowing what the consumer is ready to accept. By tracking the evolution of a trend designers can more readily predict what paths trends may take, and according to Bill Gardner, owner of Gardner Design, this knowledge gives designers and brands a definite edge.