Internet of Packs creates digitalised supply chains

Printed packaging is the decisive factor in the Internet of Packs. It serves as a central information medium along the entire product pathway to the end user. The vision is to make every package traceable throughout the entire supply chain using digitally printed codes and to provide information in many places for more autonomous processes. The process starts with paper. Before it is further processed into corrugated cardboard packaging, the paper is digitally preprinted with a continuous code and the desired print image.

From this point on, the code assumes different functions. For example, the code is read by the machines in the packaging plant that process the paper into corrugated cardboard and packaging. This provides them with the relevant data for automated order processing. During production the code can be used to automate the transportation of the packaging to the product manufacturer and to retailers. Relevant information such as the destination and the responsible logistics company can also be stored in the code for this purpose. The Internet of Packs therefore enables complete traceability of the packaging and the goods contained in it up to the retail outlet. This has a key benefit for retailers as the planning of sales volumes specifically can be hugely improved with digitalised supply chains.

But even after the sale, the codes on the packaging prove to be extremely useful. As QR codes, they enable product manufacturers to communicate and interact with their end customer. From marketing campaigns and instruction manuals to transparent information about the product’s supply chain or ingredients – all this can be represented by a single code.