July 3, 2025
Welcome to year three of our series on summer packaging—the season when store shelves get a serious glow-up. Think bold colors, breezy vibes, and designs that practically scream, “Toss me in your beach bag!”
With that in mind, you’d best believe we got ourselves ready for another trip to the store to see which brands would woo us this year with their summer-inspired packaging. From beach beverages to frozen treats and everything in between, we were on the lookout for packaging that not only catches the eye but also captures the carefree magic of summer.
MIZO Hard Juice is basically summer in a pouch and caught our eyes right off the bat (see photo below). With playful palm trees swaying across the packaging and colors that feel straight out of a sun-drenched postcard, it’s an instant invitation to kick back, soak up the sun, and channel your inner vacation mode—no plane ticket required. There’s a definite nod to those childhood afternoons sipping Capri Sun, with a grown-up twist. This kind of packaging makes you smile and reminisce. And yes, this product is available all year round. Lucky for you because who says those summer vibes have to end in September?
Next up, we had to stroll through the ice cream section because, let’s be honest, we’re total suckers for a sweet treat. And really, what goes better with the summer months than a cold, creamy scoop (or three)? This Limited Edition Strawberry Shortcake ice cream is like a scoop of summertime (see left photo above). Butter crème-flavored ice cream sets the stage with a rich, velvety base, perfectly swirled with ribbons of chunky strawberry sauce that taste like peak-season berries. But the real star? Soft, pillowy squares of shortcake layered throughout, adding just the right amount of nostalgic, bakery-fresh goodness. The carton itself is just as vibrant, with pops of pink and green that immediately transport you to a sun-soaked afternoon, making it as irresistible to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
And if you’re craving that classic summer bonfire vibe, the Limited Edition s’mores-flavored ice cream is a must-try (see right photo above). It’s everything you love about campfire treats: graham cracker ice cream with gooey marshmallow swirls and rich chocolate ribbons, all packed into one dreamy scoop. Plus, the packaging is a showstopper, designed to look just like a real s’more with its toasty, golden browns and gooey marshmallow visuals. Perfect for the cooler summer nights, it begs to be the star of your next bonfire gathering (without the hassle of building a fire).
Speaking of s’mores, Hershey’s does an excellent job showcasing the different ways to make the bonfire staple right on the packaging, providing a visual representation for every method (see photo at left). Whether you’re roasting marshmallows over a campfire, grilling them, popping them in the microwave, or using a toaster oven, the playful icons on the package make it clear that no matter how you cook them, you’re in for a good time. And did you know that National S’mores Day is August 10?
Stacy’s grabbed our attention with its eye-catching point-of-purchase display made of corrugated material, showcasing the brand’s delicious range of chips (see left photo below). The tagline, DELICIOUS SNACKS. Endless Pairings, is the perfect reminder that these chips are more than just a snack; they’re the ideal companion for everything from summer barbecues to beach picnics.
SOLO knows how to make convenience and style a priority with its corrugated display, designed not only to showcase its iconic cups but also to make setup a breeze for store workers—complete with easy-to-follow instructions on the box.
Featuring SOLO’s signature More Grips, Less Slip! tagline, this display offers the quintessential summer must-have, perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to poolside parties (see right photo below).
This trip was a welcome departure from our everyday shopping routine, and we had an absolute blast hunting for packaging that truly captures the spirit of summer with its bold colors, nostalgic imagery, and standout designs. We could have easily picked 100 more examples!
But now we want to hear from you—did these brands nail the seasonal vibes with their packaging? Feel free to shoot an email to julie@packagingschool.com and let us know what you think! And happy summering to you all!
Julie Rice Suggs, Ph.D., is academic director at the Packaging School. She can be reached at 330-774-8542 or julie@packagingschool.com.
Alli Keigley, who contributed to this article, is production coordinator at the Packaging School. She can be reached atalli@packagingschool.com.
