Episode 362 - More Than a Box: The Value of Connected Packaging
What happens when every corrugated box is given its own digital identity?
In this episode of the FuturePrint Podcast, Marcus Timson speaks with Lars and Christian Engel, owners and managing directors of BHS Corrugated, about how serialized QR codes could transform packaging from a necessary cost into a connected, value-generating business platform.
The discussion moves beyond the familiar use of QR codes as simple links to websites. Lars and Christian explain how a unique code can connect each individual package to a digital twin, creating what BHS describes as “cyber-physical packaging”. This could give a box access to dynamic information concerning its contents, materials, origin, destination, carbon footprint and journey through the supply chain.
They explore the practical benefits for corrugated manufacturers, brands, retailers and consumers. Serialization could improve traceability, enable more targeted product recalls, reduce labelling costs and help manufacturers identify over-packaging or insufficient packaging. It could also support emerging digital product-passport requirements by making information about composition, recyclability, provenance and compliance readily accessible.
The commercial possibilities extend further. Connected packaging could allow brands to communicate directly with consumers after a retail purchase, delivering product information, support, personalised promotions and complementary offers. In this model, the box becomes a marketing channel, data source and miniature salesperson.
Lars and Christian also explain why digital printing is fundamental in order to future proof any corrugated box printing production plant.
