CPG Trends 2025: Key Insights for the Future of Consumer Brands

Consumer needs are changing fast, and brands have to keep up with CPG trends. In recent years, the CPG industry has seen a huge shift in how people shop, what they eat, and the values behind their purchases.

CPG brands are under pressure. In a world where price sensitivity is rising and habits are shifting, even long-standing brand loyalties are no longer guaranteed. According to McKinsey’s ConsumerWise report, 40% of consumers in advanced markets have switched retailers for better prices, and 38% of U.S. and Canadian shoppers tried new brands within just three months of the survey period. What’s more, 60% of consumers now believe private label products offer the same or better quality than national brands, driving major changes in how consumer packaged goods compete across the shelf

For Gen Z, loyalty is even more fragile, 62% say they would consider other options even if they already have a favorite brand, especially if price or quality is better elsewhere. So what’s next for the goods industry in 2025? Here’s what to track, what’s changing, and what CPG companies can do to stay competitive.

The evolving CPG industry: What’s driving change in 2025?

New behaviors, fresh values, and smarter tools are shaping the future of consumer packaged goods. There’s more demand for quick, healthy, and affordable options. At the same time, people want brands to reflect their ethics, things like sustainable sourcing, environmental awareness, and transparent labeling.

Many shoppers now expect brands to reflect personal values. The customer experience isn’t just about the product, it’s about how it’s made, what it stands for, and how it gets to the store.

These changes are affecting every part of the CPG industry, from pricing and packaging to channel strategy and growth planning.

Generative AI and predictive analytics are reshaping CPG

More CPG companies are using artificial intelligence to speed up decisions and reduce guesswork. Predictive tools help teams forecast consumer demand, test product ideas, and build faster go-to-market plans.

That’s where Tastewise fits in. With real-time food and beverage insights, our solutions give you a clearer view of what’s trending and where the next opportunity lies.

Whether you’re tracking media mentions or testing packaged goods concepts, smart technology is now essential for every CPG brand. It’s not just about scale. It’s about personal speed and accuracy.

Conscious consumption goes mainstream

Sustainability isn’t niche anymore. Consumers want goods that are better for them and the planet. We’re seeing growing interest in personal care, plant-based items, low-impact packaging, and ethical sourcing.

This trend has expanded into every aisle, from pet care to snacks to cleaning products. The impact of these changes isn’t limited to the consumer. They touch supply chains, services, and even business models.

Brands with a clear, honest mission are winning market share. Even traditional players are adapting, quickly.

Trending ingredients and claims to watch

In 2025, consumers are more focused on health, flavor, and transparency. Expect more interest in immunity-boosting ingredients, gut health, protein-rich snacks, and natural goods.

Label claims like “no added sugar,” “gut-friendly,” and “sustainably sourced” are becoming standard. This is true across global markets, not just in North America.

To stand out, brands should track both consumer behavior and local shopping habits. Flavor isn’t universal, but health and sustainability are growing signals across regions.

Private labels and challenger brands are gaining ground

Private labels and small brands are growing fast. In 2024, private-label sales jumped 8% in the US alone. Consumers want affordable options, but they’re also choosing goods companies that feel local, fresh, and values-driven.

That means big companies face more competition than ever. And these challengers aren’t just copying. They’re leading in innovation, niche marketing, and fast product launches. This is pushing legacy players to rethink how they launch, market, and connect.

Where the market is headed: What to prepare for

Let’s get real. The pressure is on. Rising costs, supply chain delays, changing consumer values, and tighter margins are the norm.

Here’s what industry leaders are focused on:

• Speed to shelf and faster innovation
  Smarter strategy driven by real-time insights
• Regional market testing before national rollout
• More flexible services and fulfillment options
  

CPG brands that act quickly and build with consumer input will win. That’s the opportunity and the challenge.

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