Conducting a labor market needs analysis for the packaging sector

The primary aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the labor market needs in the Turkish packaging industry. Today, packaging goes beyond its traditional functions of protecting and transporting products; it has become a strategic tool in building brand identity, influencing consumer preferences, and implementing sustainability policies. Globally, the widespread adoption of digitalization, automation, and eco-friendly materials has required a redefinition of the knowledge, skills, and qualifications demanded from employees in the sector. In the Turkish context, the predominance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), combined with financial constraints and inadequacies in educational infrastructure, has created specific challenges for the labor market. The conceptual framework of the study is built on the approach of labor market needs analysis, focusing on the assessment of employment trends, skill gaps, and future workforce requirements. Previous studies in the packaging and related industries emphasize that sustainability, digital transformation, and shortages in qualified human resources are common problem areas at the global level. The Turkish packaging industry reflects these global trends but also exhibits unique vulnerabilities due to its SME-dominated structure, which hinders progress in digitalization and sustainability. A descriptive survey model was employed in this research, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire, consisting of six main sections and 43 questions in total, addressed company characteristics, training needs, human resource requirements, labor market trends, workforce development strategies, and general opinions and suggestions. The population of the study included packaging companies located in Istanbul that operate in at least two of the production phases (pre-press, press, and post-press). The sample was determined through companies registered in the Istanbul Chamber of Industry, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, and relevant sectoral associations. The collected data were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings reveal that the majority of packaging companies are SMEs, yet there is also a strong orientation toward international markets, reflecting the sector's export-driven growth. With respect to training needs, digital printing, sustainability, quality management, occupational safety, and R&D were identified as the most critical areas. The preference of companies for on-the-job and practical training highlights the importance of hands-on skills in the sector. In terms of human resources, while production units remain the most in-demand, there is a growing need for positions in design, R&D, quality control, and logistics. Furthermore, the desired employee profile extends beyond technical expertise to include problem-solving, communication, and innovative thinking skills. Labor market trends indicate that digitalization and sustainability are the dominant forces shaping the sector, yet high investment costs constitute a major barrier, particularly for SMEs. Increasing demand for environmentally friendly practices is consistent with the global emphasis on green skills. Additionally, participants emphasized the importance of employee motivation and well-being, underlining that the sector's competitiveness depends not only on technical capacity but also on social and organizational dimensions. Regarding workforce development strategies, companies emphasized the need for stronger university-industry collaboration, increased government support, and more flexible learning models. Proposals such as facilitating transitions from vocational high schools to universities and expanding opportunities for open and distance education reflect the necessity of integrating lifelong learning into the sector. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that the future of the Turkish packaging industry will be shaped by two main axes: digitalization and sustainability. While the sector largely aligns with global trends, its SME-based structure creates unique vulnerabilities in terms of financing and education. Updating training programs, expanding practical and on-the-job training, enhancing the attractiveness of the sector for younger generations, and strengthening expertise in areas such as environmental management and cost analysis are critical steps forward. Moreover, public incentives supporting the digital transformation of SMEs and the institutionalization of university-industry-government collaborations will play a decisive role in increasing the competitiveness and sustainability of the sector at both national and international levels.