Wrapping Up 2025: What Changed in the Wrap Industry and What to Expect in 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, it’s clear that the wrap industry has grown faster and more creatively than ever. From new materials to bold design trends to major shifts in how businesses use wraps for advertising, this year has pushed the industry forward in meaningful ways.
At Blue Ridge Wraps, we’ve seen these changes firsthand, and we’re already gearing up for what’s coming in 2026. Here’s a look back at the biggest developments of 2025 and a look ahead at the trends that will shape the next year.
The Biggest Wrap Industry Trends of 2025
1. The Surge of Sustainable Wrap Options
2025 was the year eco-conscious materials truly broke into the mainstream. More manufacturers released PVC free and recyclable vinyl options, and many businesses specifically asked for greener solutions to support their branding.
While these materials are still evolving, the demand was strong enough this year to make sustainability a permanent consideration for shops and suppliers moving forward.
2. Growth in Specialty Finishes
Matte was king for years, but 2025 saw a massive rise in specialty and “statement” finishes. The most popular requests this year included:
Satin and soft-touch films
Color shifting and iridescent effects
Textured materials like brushed metal and carbon fiber
Subtle pearlescent films for a high-end look
Customers wanted more customization than ever, matching their wrap finishes to both personal style and brand personality.
3. Wraps as Full Marketing Systems
This year, more businesses began using wraps as a centerpiece of their marketing strategy. Fleet branding grew significantly, and companies leaned into wraps not just for visuals, but for measurable impact.
We saw:
Increased use of cohesive fleet designs
More QR codes and direct-to-digital elements
Wraps used for event promotion and short-term campaigns
The idea of a wrap as a “moving billboard” became more literal than ever in 2025.
4. A Major Rise in Partial Wraps
Full wraps stayed popular, but partial wraps saw one of the biggest jumps in demand. Customers liked the lower cost combined with the ability to highlight key design elements or branding areas. With better materials and cleaner seam techniques, partial wraps became a strong option for budget conscious clients who still wanted something eye catching.
5. Strong Demand for High-Quality, Custom Artwork
From bold geometric patterns to intricate illustrated designs, 2025 was the year custom graphics truly took center stage. Businesses and personal vehicle owners alike wanted something unique not just a color change but a full custom identity.
What to Expect in 2026
With the industry evolving at a fast pace, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year. Here are the biggest developments we expect to see:
1. More Durable and Advanced Wrap Films
Manufacturers are investing heavily in materials that last longer, resist fading better, conform more easily, and remove cleaner. Expect new adhesive technologies and improved protective coatings to hit the market in 2026.
2. Expansion of Eco-Friendly Vinyl
Sustainable wrap materials will become more common and more affordable. We expect at least two major manufacturers to release expanded lines of PVC free wrap films with improved durability.
3. Cleaner, Minimalist Designs
While bold graphics aren’t going anywhere, early design trends suggest a shift toward:
Clean layouts
Simple color palettes
Strong typography
More negative space
Modern branding is moving toward simplicity, and wraps will follow.
4. AI-Assisted Design Tools
AI won’t replace designers, but it will become a more useful tool in the creative process. Shops will begin integrating AI-driven mockups, pattern generation, and layout exploration to speed up design workflows and give customers more concept options.
5. Growth in Wraps Beyond Vehicles
Expect more demand for:
Wall wraps
Floor graphics
Event signage
Architectural films for interiors
Outdoor storefront wraps
Many businesses realized in 2025 that vinyl doesn’t just belong on cars it can completely transform a space.
Final Thoughts
2025 was a year of innovation, creativity, and expanding possibilities in the wrap industry. As we move into 2026, clients will have more choices, better materials, and more ways to use wraps to express their identity or promote their business.
At Blue Ridge Wraps, we’re excited for what’s ahead. Whether it’s vehicle wraps, fleet branding, architectural films, or custom graphics, we’re ready to help our customers take advantage of everything the new year brings.
