Episode 265 - Beyond the Barcode: How Connected Packaging is Redefining Print, Technology and Consumer Trust
Show Notes:
In this episode of the FuturePrint Podcast, Marcus Timson speaks with Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystem at io.tt, whose career journey spans design, packaging, academia, FMCG innovation and now the cutting edge of connected packaging.
Stefan’s story is far from conventional. From early days in publishing and advertising, through pivotal roles at Nestlé where he pioneered digital print and sustainable packaging innovation, to his current role helping brands embrace connected packaging, his eclectic background reflects a rare ability to bridge creativity and technology.
The conversation explores how connected packaging—enabled through QR codes, NFC and other technologies—is transforming packaging from a static wrapper into a dynamic digital interface. Stefan explains how brands like Boots, Madri and Moose Knuckles are already using packaging to enhance safety, improve accessibility, engage consumers and even meet regulatory requirements such as digital product passports.
Stefan is passionate about the power of collaboration, both within teams and with external partners, to drive positive change. He believes that bringing together champions, engineers, commercial and technical experts, and external collaborators is essential for success. For Stefan, there is no ‘I’ in ‘we’—because we are always stronger together.
Key themes include:
The “buckets of change” reshaping print and packaging: environment, innovation, fit-for-purpose design and digital transformation.
Why collaboration across ecosystems—not silos—is essential to unlocking cost savings and new value.
The growing role of digital print in enabling scalable personalisation, interactivity and traceability.
How consumer expectations around transparency, sustainability and security are forcing brands to rethink packaging strategies.
The disruptive role of artificial intelligence, both as a threat to jobs and a catalyst for scaling innovation.
Stefan also shares insights from his work with the Manifesto for More Sustainable Print, an industry-wide initiative addressing the overlooked impact of inks and coatings on the environment.
An engaging discussion for anyone interested in the future of packaging, print technology, sustainability, and the intersection of creativity and digital innovation.
FuturePrint Events:
FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany