July 30, 2025
Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) branding is evolving at breakneck speed. From sustainability to smart packaging and hyper-local storytelling, 2025 is shaping up to redefine what shelf appeal really means. In an age where every scroll, swipe, and shelf space are a battlefield, brands need more than a good product they need unforgettable branding.
At 1928 Creative Studio, we’ve been privileged to partner with both emerging and established FMCG brands to shape their visual identity, packaging, and communication for today’s fast-changing market. Here’s a deep dive into the FMCG branding and design trends you absolutely can’t afford to ignore this year.
1. Hyper-Minimalism with Purpose
Minimalism isn’t new but in 2025, it’s no longer just about looking clean. It’s about designing with intent. Consumers now associate white space, reduced clutter, and simple typefaces with brands that are transparent, ethical, and premium.
But it’s not minimal for minimal’s sake every design element serves a purpose. The colour, typography, and layout reflect a clear message: less distraction, more trust. Brands that embrace this strategy win in both retail aisles and digital stores.
2. Sustainable, Yet Sleek Packaging
Sustainability has matured. Today’s consumers expect eco-friendly materials without compromising on style. They want compostable wrappers, refillable containers, and plant-based inks that still feel modern and luxurious.
At 1928 Creative Studio, we helped a wellness brand switch from glossy plastic to biodegradable pouches with a smooth matte finish and embossed logo. The result? A higher perceived value and a reduced carbon footprint.
Want to know how branding like this can make or break your business? Read our piece on
why small brands need strong branding from day one.
3. Typography Becomes the Star
Forget secondary roles typography in FMCG branding is stepping into the spotlight. Custom fonts, bold type, and expressive lettering are being used to convey mood, values, and voice.
Whether it’s a quirky display type on a snack label or a heritage-inspired serif on an olive oil bottle, fonts are now central to a product’s identity. The typography says as much as the tagline.
4. Cultural Relevance and Local Identity
Gone are the days of generic global branding. In 2025, successful FMCG brands are weaving authentic cultural references into their packaging and storytelling. Think regional colour palettes, locally inspired illustrations, and even multilingual labels.
But authenticity is key. Brands must honour, not just reference, cultural elements. It’s about designing with insight, not assumption something we consistently apply in our branding workshops at 1928 Creative Studio.
5. Packaging as a Digital Portal
Packaging is no longer the end of the customer journey it’s a gateway. QR codes, AR overlays, and scannable labels are turning FMCG products into digital experiences. Imagine scanning your tea box to meet the farmer or your snack pack to unlock recipes.
Smart packaging enhances customer engagement and drives brand loyalty. It also bridges the gap between physical and digital touchpoints a must in the D2C era.
6. Multi-Sensory Design
The feel of a product matters just as much as the look. In 2025, FMCG packaging is increasingly incorporating sensory elements like soft-touch finishes, raised inks, and even scent-releasing coatings.
These tactile cues elevate the unboxing moment and increase memorability, especially in premium categories like skincare, health food, and gourmet beverages.
7. Old-School Aesthetics, Reimagined
Nostalgia sells but only when done right. Brands are leaning into retro design motifs, vintage colour palettes, and classic iconography, while pairing them with modern messaging and sustainable formats.
This blend of “newstalgia” offers emotional resonance and contemporary relevance. Think glass milk bottles with updated pastel tones or old-school cola cans with clean, refined branding.
8. Transparency as a Trust Tool
Informed buyers demand honest brands. FMCG brands are now prioritizing front-facing ingredient transparency, sourcing stories, and clean design to build trust and align with conscious consumers.
Your visual identity must reflect your values. If you’re unsure where to start, explore our step-by-step guide to building a visual identity especially helpful for growing brands trying to clarify their look and feel.
9. Thumbnail-Ready Packaging
In the e-commerce era, packaging needs to look just as good online as it does on shelves. Bold logos, legible fonts, and simplified colour schemes ensure your product pops even on a small screen.
Designers now create “digital-first” packaging optimized for zooming, scrolling, and sharing without sacrificing tactile appeal for in-store shoppers.
10. Limited-Edition Drops and Collabs
Borrowing from the fashion and sneaker worlds, FMCG brands are experimenting with limited-edition drops, influencer collabs, and micro-campaigns. These “moment-based” launches drive urgency, PR buzz, and social sharing.
Examples include artist-designed labels, festival-themed Flavors, or influencer-created recipes all tied to short-lived packaging and custom branding.
Final Thoughts
2025 is a thrilling time for FMCG branding. The design landscape is richer, bolder, and more connected than ever before. But the brands that will truly stand out are those that invest in intentional, thoughtful, and consumer-first branding strategies.
At 1928 Creative Studio, we don’t just design packaging we help brands craft stories, identities, and experiences that move people. Whether you’re a bootstrapped startup or an established label ready for a refresh, the time to innovate your brand is now.
Want your FMCG brand to lead, not follow?
Let’s build something bold and unforgettable together.
Visit us at 1928 Creative Studio