As we move into 2026, PPG has unveiled its highly anticipated Color of the Year: Secret Safari. This warm, neutral green captures the spirit of self-expression and self-exploratory journey—reflecting consumers’ desire to create their own paths and manifest their own worlds.
In a recent interview with CBA’s Managing Director, Fran Attilio, Vanessa Peterson, Global Color Styling Lead at PPG Industries, shared the inspiration and process behind this year’s selection, as well as how it translates into exciting opportunities for cookware and bakeware manufacturers.
The Story Behind Secret Safari and the 2026 Theme: Parallels
PPG’s research revealed a significant shift in consumer mindset for 2026. People are becoming more self-aware and comfortable going on their own journeys, figuring out their own paths in life. They’re focusing on how things are affecting them emotionally, mentally, and physically.
This represents a notable evolution from previous years. The trend has moved from kinetic, fast-moving adaptable experiences to a more self-journeying experience—going parallel through different ventures and creating one’s own journey side by side with all the different elements around the world.
This insight led to the overarching theme for 2026: Parallels. The theme captures the visual representation of moving in that side-by-side journey for individuals to really create and manifest their own world.
And the color that best embodies this theme? Secret Safari. The name plays on the idea of self-expression and self-exploratory journey—going on a journey through a safari.
The color itself captures attention through its intriguing duality. It’s a beautiful color that makes you think—is it green or is it yellow? This ambiguity demonstrates its versatility for use on many different products. It’s both calming and energizing, with a duality that allows it to fit whether you’re looking at a cookware product, a kitchen appliance, or even the color of your kitchen.
Translating Trends to Cookware
One of the most exciting aspects of PPG’s Color of the Year initiative is how the company translates these broader design trends into practical applications for the cookware and bakeware industry. This year’s palette goes well beyond Secret Safari itself, offering manufacturers a range of options to capture the spirit of 2026.
The team wanted to bring that sense of fun and optimism to life. They developed several complementary palettes:
- Calming Neutrals: Warm beiges and soft taupes that create a sense of comfort and tranquility
- Bold Statements: Including a vibrant teal for drinkware that adds playfulness and energy
- Innovative Finishes: Metallic color-shift effects that change appearance depending on lighting, plus high-gloss finishes making a comeback
- Unexpected Combinations: Layering techniques like blue over pink that create visual interest and depth
Consumers are gravitating toward products that make them feel good—whether through soothing neutrals that create a spa-like kitchen environment or bold pops of color that spark joy.
The Technical Side of Color Innovation
Translating color trends into durable, food-safe coatings for cookware presents unique challenges. PPG’s team doesn’t just identify beautiful colors—they engineer solutions that perform in demanding kitchenware environments.
The team is constantly innovating in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. They experiment with various coating technologies, from powder coatings to specialty finishes, ensuring that trend-forward colors can withstand the rigors of daily cooking.
This year’s palette showcases PPG’s technical capabilities through color-shifting metallics, high-gloss finishes, and innovative layering techniques—all while maintaining the durability and safety standards required for cookware applications.
Looking Ahead
PPG’s color team is already at work on next year’s trends. This continuous cycle of research, innovation, and collaboration keeps the industry moving forward and responding to evolving consumer needs.
For those interested in learning more about Secret Safari and how these color trends can be applied to their products, Vanessa encourages reaching out or visiting PPG’s Industrial Coatings blog and YouTube channel, which feature behind-the-scenes videos about how they came up with the color of the year, as well as showcases of their technologies and latest updates.
Secret Safari represents more than just a color choice for 2026—it’s a reflection of our collective desire for comfort, connection, and optimism as we navigate an ever-changing world. And for the cookware industry, it offers exciting opportunities to bring that warmth and positivity into consumers’ kitchens.
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