E-Commerce Trends for 2025 & Beyond: What They Mean for Packaging

E-commerce growth in 2025? It’s moving faster than your favourite app updates. From AI-driven personalisation to immersive shopping experiences, the digital marketplace is becoming more sophisticated—and so are consumer expectations. For us at Postal Packaging, these shifts present exciting opportunities to innovate, adapt & lead.

In this blog we’ll go through the key e-commerce trends shaping the future (& how packaging can play a starring role).

1. Sustainability Is No Longer Optional

Trend Insight: Consumers are demanding eco-friendly practices. The average e-commerce business has 70% of baskets abandoned & according to DHL’s 2025 E-Commerce Trends Report, nearly 1 in 3 shoppers abandon baskets due to sustainability concerns. That number jumps to 1 in 2 among Gen Z.

Make It Happen With Packaging:

1. Offer biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable packaging. Shop Our Eco Friendly Mailing Bags >>

2. Highlight carbon-neutral shipping options.

3. Optimise design by using the right sized packaging to minimise excess waste. Shop Our ColomPac Shipping Boxes >>

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ColomPac

Quick Assembly

From flat pack to ready to go in one easy step.
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ColomPac

Adjustable Height

Variable packed depth and an integrated tear-open strip.
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ColomPac

Peel & Seal Closure

Easy sealing and opening for your recipient.

Tip: Make your sustainability credentials visible—on your website, your packaging, & your marketing materials.

2. AI-Powered Personalisation

Trend Insight: AI is changing the game in e-commerce. Think smarter product suggestions, faster customer service, and shopping that feels like it “gets” you. It’s like having a personal shopper powered by data. For brands, it’s not just cool tech—it’s how they stay ahead and keep consumers coming back.

Make It Happen With Packaging:

1. Include custom QR codes that link to tailored content or offers.

2. Design custom marketing visuals for your packaging to boost brand visibility and reinforce your message.

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3. Mobile-First & Social Commerce

Trend Insight: With mobile commerce dominating & social platforms like Instagram & TikTok becoming shopping hubs, brands must optimise for mobile-first experiences.

Make It Happen With Packaging:

1. Design packaging that’s “Instagrammable”—visually appealing & share-worthy.

2. Include social media handles or hashtags to encourage user-generated content.

4. Immersive Shopping with AR & VR

Trend Insight: Immersive shopping with augmented and virtual reality is taking online retail to the next level. Imagine trying on sunglasses virtually or seeing how that new coffee table looks in your space—without leaving your sofa. It’s fun, interactive, and gives customers more confidence buying online. What used to feel like a tech fantasy is now part of your everyday scroll.

5. Frictionless Fulfilment & Returns

Trend Insight: Speed & convenience are king. Consumers expect fast, flexible delivery & hassle-free returns.

Make It Happen With Packaging:

1. Design easy-to-open, resealable packaging for returns.

2. Offer modular packaging that adapts to different product sizes to reduce shipping costs & waste. Shop Our Book Wrap Mailers >>

Final Thoughts

E-commerce is changing fast—it’s more digital, more dynamic, & more focused on the customer than ever. For us at Postal Packaging, that’s not just exciting—it’s a chance to step up. We’re not just here to supply boxes; we’re here to help brands create standout experiences with smart, sustainable packaging that really connects with people.

Smarter shopping. Greener choices. Better packaging.