The responsible packaging shoppers (RPS) are emerging as a trend-setting segment of shoppers, according to a report based on data from the annual EcoFocus Trend Study, which forecasts key trends that will shape the U.S. food and beverage industries in the year ahead. Now in its ninth year, the EcoFocus Trend Study, produced by Evergreen Packaging, Memphis, Tenn., examines how consumer attitudes, actions, preferences and values are reshaping grocery purchasing decisions.

“The critical takeaway from the latest study and report is that there is a growing consumer group that is consciously making their purchasing decision based on packaging material, its perceived recyclability and corporate commitments to sustainability. Through our work with EcoFocus Worldwide, we are able to help our customers stay ahead of the most important trends and to make decisions based not only on the customer of today, but the customer of tomorrow as well,” says DeWitt Clark, vice president of sales and marketing North American packaging. “Without a doubt, the consumer expectations we are seeing now will have a lasting impact on the shopping experience and the packaging expectations for many years to come. It is vital information for any leader in food and beverage sales at the grocery level.”