Packaging is the New Brand Statement, According to eCommerce Report

Mondi, a provider of sustainable packaging and paper, announced the results of its sixth annual eCommerce trend report “Sustainability and its impact on packaging and online shopping choices”. This comprehensive study examines trends, attitudes and expectations regarding eCommerce and the impact packaging has on the consumer experience.

The report presents data from around 6,000 consumers across Czechia, France, Germany, Poland, Sweden and Türkiye, collected via an online survey in October and November 2024. The findings offer eCommerce brands valuable insights on meeting consumer needs, including country-specific results from each of the six markets. The survey was conducted by RetailX, who also co-authored the whitepaper.

Swedish consumers are frequent online shoppers (47%) and lead in sustainable disposal habits, with 63% placing packaging in recycling streams. They prioritise practical shopping experiences and focus on product quality over packaging aesthetics. With a strong culture of environmental responsibility, Sweden remains a leader in sustainability.

“This year’s findings confirm that sustainability is no longer just a trend, it’s a business imperative,” said Armand Schoonbrood, Mondi Group eCommerce COO. “Consumers are demanding tangible action from retailers to reduce their environmental impact. At Mondi, we are proud to support customers with innovative, sustainable eCommerce packaging and paper solutions that meet consumer expectations and help our partners to build trust, loyalty, and long-term value in the eCommerce space."

Adding to this, RetailX Chief Editor Ian Jindal, commented: "The findings of this year’s survey show that sustainable eCommerce packaging has become more than a preference – it’s now a consumer expectation. Transparency, innovation and credibility in sustainability efforts are vital for retailers to maintain trust, loyalty, and relevance in a rapidly evolving market.”

Emerging trends and insights

A surge in online shopping: key insights for retailers

• Online shopping frequency soars: 71% of consumers shop online monthly, up from 56% last year.
• Spending remains stable: 1 in 4 consumers spends €120–€290 per month.

Packaging that drives loyalty: what consumers value most

• Protection is key: 95% of consumers prioritise protective packaging.
• Sustainability demand grows: 80% insist on environmentally conscious or recyclable packaging.
• Unboxing matters: 59% say packaging influences repeat purchases; Gen Z (71%) values aesthetics and recyclability.

From promises to proof: why transparency matters

• Sustainability skepticism: only 50% trust online brands' eco claims.
• Sustainable packaging boosts brand perception: 90% favour brands using recyclable, right-sized eCommerce packaging.

Access the Mondi Group eCommerce trend report 2025 here.

Source: Mondi Group

The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Packaging Impressions. The views expressed within may not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Packaging Impressions.