The annual e-commerce checklists are out again. Pinterest is the first to reveal theirs, but if you see any, add them in the comments and I'll update the list here: https://business.pinterest.com/en-GB/pdf/pinterest-smb-holiday-checklist/

I've been browsing the web for Autumn trends; colours, finishes, embellishments, textures etc. These are three of the best blog posts I've found so far. If you come across any others, share them in the comments. https://www.packagingworld.co.uk/blogs/news/cosy-colours-for-autumn-packaging https://uk.pinterest.com/ideas/fall-2026-color-trends/961877408562/ https://www.cubitpackaging.com/blog/packaging-trends-2026-seasonal-design-ideas

Made of 50 components and eight processes, the Jack Daniels/McClaren pack has won multiple awards. You can read about it and see it in the links below. More stories like these in this Friday's newsletter. (The last link is a video from a collector on Instagram). https://www.packagingnews.com.au/design/jack-daniel-s-x-mclaren-pack-wins-global-awards https://www.hunterluxury.com/halo-mk1-limited-edition/ https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXLc9ekjYma/ (It's about $500 if you're interested)

As the Christmas supply stores prepare to close down for the year, packaging lines finalise their bookings and food producers see their products go through packaging testing, where are you in your 2026 preparations? If you're new to retail, NPD or the idea that Christmas 2026 started before Christmas 2025, this weeks newsletter has you covered. Equally, if you're now in a panic reading this, search for "over wrap," festive packaging ideas and temporary festive rebranding for a shortcut to Christmasifying your product range. When you're sitting with a stock of Christmas packaging in early September (when the festive shopping starts) and watch the suppliers run out, you can feel all smug and confident for the season ahead (while preparing for 2027).

A great article that won't make it into this week's newsletter; your packaging can influence what people expect from your product: https://www.bentley.edu/news/tempting-more-taste-buds-how-packaging-influences-chocolate-choices