The future is flexible – alternative packaging marks the next step for tobacco products

As the global tobacco industry pivots towards a smoke free future, Parkside is encouraging manufacturers to rethink their packaging for a new era of nicotine delivery.

With the rise of reduced risk products (RRP), formats such as nicotine pouches, heated tobacco, and CBD infused products, Parkside asserts that flexible packaging solutions are not just an alternative but an essential step forward for the sector.

‘These next generation products demand next generation packaging,’ said Laura Haggerty, sales account manager, tobacco at Parkside. ‘Rigid jars and boxes are no longer fit for purpose as new delivery systems reshape the landscape. In an evolving market that increasingly values sustainability, convenience, and product integrity, flexible packaging – in particular high barrier formats – offers a smarter, more responsible solution.’

Although vaping remains the largest segment of RRP delivery systems, other products are emerging that demand bespoke packaging solutions. In particular, nicotine pouches are gaining traction thanks to their tobacco free, discreet delivery system, especially among consumers seeking alternatives to traditional smoking.

However, despite innovations in product formats, packaging innovation has stalled somewhat, due to slow technological developments, with many modern oral products still packed in rigid containers or multi-layered boxes. These designs add unnecessary weight and material, and clash with both consumer expectations and industry goals around sustainability.

Parkside believes the sector is primed for a shift towards flexible packaging – particularly pouches and flow wraps. These modern designs offer significant advantages including being lightweight and low carbon, offer high barrier protection against oil, moisture and aroma, and provide ease of opening and resealing, matching modern on the go consumer lifestyles.

Parkside is committed to driving conversations around sustainability in tobacco packaging, offering solutions that align with regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for responsible packaging. With options for paper recyclable, compostable or recycle ready monomaterial structures, modern packaging design can help brands meet growing regulatory and consumer demands for more sustainable solutions.

‘Flexible packaging is the next logical step for brands looking to futureproof their products,’ added Laura. ‘As the industry embraces RRP’s and a smoke free vision, it is time to move beyond rigid formats.

‘At Parkside, we are proud to be a trusted development partner for tobacco packaging solutions, with a market leading portfolio of flexible packaging, containing innovations for a variety of traditional tobacco and RRPs – from resealable pouches for CBD, to high barrier paper options for combustible and heat not burn tobacco. By adopting innovative flexible packaging solutions, manufacturers can reduce their environmental footprint, enhance product protection, and deliver a better consumer experience.’