Rebecca Marquez from PMMI shares new data and insights from a recent study on pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging.
PMMI Media Group
The pharmaceutical packaging industry is evolving rapidly, creating new opportunities for both OEMs and brand owners. A recent survey conducted by PMMI’s Custom Research and Business Intelligence team highlights major shifts in packaging technology, sustainability, e-commerce, and regulatory demands. Here at PACK EXPO East, Rebecca Marquez from PMMI shared key insights from the study.
The findings show that while companies are already adopting new solutions today, there is even greater momentum toward future investments, making this a critical moment for innovation across the industry.
One of the most significant trends shaping pharmaceutical packaging is the growing focus on connectivity. Packaging is no longer just about protection and compliance, it is increasingly becoming a tool for digital engagement and operational efficiency. Companies are already implementing features such as:
Temperature control packaging
QR codes
RFID tags
NFC-enabled smart packaging
These technologies support improved tracking, authentication, and patient experience. For example, interactive packaging can provide reminders for medication adherence or offer digital product information through scannable codes.
Nearly 30% of surveyed companies indicated they are exploring or planning to implement these connected packaging features in the near future. The gap between current adoption and future plans represents a major opportunity for both manufacturers and equipment providers.
Sustainability continues to be one of the most important—and complex—topics in pharmaceutical packaging. PMMI Media GroupSustainability Remains a Key Priority
Sustainability continues to be one of the most important, and complex, topics in pharmaceutical packaging. Unlike other industries such as food or home care, pharma faces unique regulatory constraints that affect how sustainable materials can be used. Current sustainability trends include:
Direct printing to reduce label waste
Sustainable inks and paper alternatives
Increased use of recyclable materials
Growing interest in post-consumer recycled (PCR) content
Over the past several years, PCR materials have been steadily rising in popularity, and their use is beginning to expand further into pharmaceutical applications.
Looking ahead, companies are also focusing on lightweighting, compostable materials, and broader adoption of recycled content. While compostability has strong interest, infrastructure limitations—particularly in the U.S.—remain a challenge.
One of the most significant trends shaping pharmaceutical packaging is the growing focus on connectivity. PMMI Media GroupSecurity and Anti-Counterfeiting Features
Packaging security is another growing priority, driven by both patient safety concerns and the need to prevent counterfeit pharmaceuticals. Common solutions include:
External seals
Tamper-resistant materials
Scannable QR codes and authentication tools
Many of these security features overlap with smart packaging initiatives, combining digital engagement with product protection.
E-Commerce is Reshaping Pharma Distribution
E-commerce is steadily transforming the pharmaceutical sector. While growth is gradual rather than explosive, it is driving major operational change.
OEMs are also seeing increased demand for machinery capable of handling serialization, randomization, and online consolidation. Even moderate e-commerce expansion requires significant packaging and manufacturing adaptation.
Regulatory Complexity Continues to Drive Challenges
Regulation remains one of the most significant pressures in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Key U.S. regulations include the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA), FDA good manufacturing practices, and a growing patchwork of state-level requirements.
In the EU, regulations are often stricter, with increasing restrictions on single-use packaging and material selection.
When asked, end users reported that their top challenges include regulation documentation and product testing/ verification.
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Sustainability continues to be one of the most important—and complex—topics in pharmaceutical packaging. PMMI Media Group
