New, proprietary research unveils 10 change forces at the forefront of macro trends. These change forces, include "Dash Moms - Moms Doing More," a cultural explosion keyed to a growing Hispanic population and consumer demand for variety and healthy refreshment, are driving two universal consumer need trends important to packaging innovation. 

The research was introduced by Ball Corp. at its 5th annual Packaging Solutions Forum (PSF), held July 28, 2011, at the company's Broomfield, CO, headquarters. More than 35 influential consumer products companies representing hundreds of well-known brands attended the event, which Ball says is part of its focus on consumer-centric packaging innovation.

Other change forces discussed include:
•Home Improvement - Consumers of all generations are focusing more on the home as their center of relaxation. Homes are becoming command centers where the consumer can do it all: living, working and socializing. Packaging innovation must be outstanding, multi-functional and something to be experienced.
•Self-Expression - Millennials, also known as Generation Ys, are constantly connected to each other. Products, brands and consumption behavior express not only who they are but how they are different from the masses. Packaging innovation must provide an easy platform from which they can make a statement about themselves and makes products feel new again and again. Also part of this trend is the desire by Baby Boomers to rewrite the concept of aging as they approach their retirement years. To appeal to this generation, packaging innovations must focus on nostalgia is compelling to younger generations, functionality and style, and avoid anything that makes this generation "feel old."

More information about the research can be obtained from Ball Corp.