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What’s the One Innovation That Could Change Packaging Forever?
Packaging keeps evolving — but what’s the one breakthrough that could truly change everything?
Maybe it’s a material that’s fully circular, AI-driven design that optimizes cost and carbon, or smart packaging that tracks itself.
What do you think is the single innovation that could redefine our industry — and what’s holding it back?
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From where I’m standing early in my career, I think the biggest game changer would be a universal, data-rich packaging ID system — something that lets every package “talk” to machines, supply chains, and even consumers.
Imagine if every box or pouch carried standardized digital info (materials, recycling instructions, supply chain history) that equipment could read instantly. It could speed automation, improve traceability, and help both brands and consumers make smarter choices.
We have barcodes and QR codes now, but they’re limited. A truly open, intelligent ID system could connect design, manufacturing, shipping, and end-of-life in one seamless loop.
I love that idea, Samantha. A universal digital ID would solve so many headaches — from machine set-up to end-of-life sorting. We’ve seen pieces of it (RFID, QR codes, GS1 barcodes), but nothing that’s open, standardized, and rich enough to bridge design, automation, logistics, and recycling.
The challenge I’ve seen is getting industry-wide adoption and keeping costs down. It’s tough to convince every brand, converter, and recycler to use the same data model. But if standards bodies or major retailers push for it — or if the ROI is clear in automation and supply chain efficiency — it could finally tip.
Keep pushing for this kind of thinking. The next generation of engineers who understand both technology and packaging operations will be the ones who make it happen.