2021 Smart Packaging Trends

This year, digital has soared and taken over much of our day-to-day lives. Everything from zoom birthday parties to online grocery shopping has become the norm. In a study by Red Points, 60.4% of consumers said they have increased online shopping versus shopping in-store, and 60% of Americans are purchasing more household cleaning products online. As the need for digital connection grows even further, smart packaging proves to be a technology ready to adapt to the rapidly changing market. In this article, we’re highlighting some of the biggest trends with see taking off in 2021.

Sustainability 

With most of the world on lockdown this year, we were able to see a major reduction in pollution, leading to a larger focus on climate changeWe are seeing brands turn to more sustainable options, from how their product is manufactured to the way it’s packaged. According to Lyst, since the beginning of 2020, ‘sustainability’ searches have seen a 37% increaseFor brands to succeed in their sustainability efforts in the new year, they should focus on ways to be transparent with consumersResearch shows that 70% of consumers believe it is important for brands to make a stanceUse smart packaging technology tdisplay how you are making strides for a better Earth.  

Some companies vow to commit to a better future by implementing practices like fair trade and protecting parts of the environment that are in danger, like jungles and forests. ERP software giant SAP utilized Touchcode’s connected packaging technology to hand out 100% fair trade chocolate to clients at a marketing event. The chocolate came with promotional cards attached that allowed customers to connect to a website where they could click to save one square meter of forest in Panama.

Storytelling  

Now more than ever, telling a brand story & making strong relationships with consumers is imperative. With consumers going to stores less frequently, they need to be able to make connections with brands without having an in-person store experience. Storytelling will not only increase your brand favorability in your audience’s eyes, it can also be up to 22 times more memorable than facts aloneSmart packaging allows brands to bring their story to life right from the product itselfYour product packaging can enable a digital portal that can take your customer on a journey to discover how your brand stands out amongst the crowd.

Anti-counterfeiting 

Since the pandemic worsened in March and April, the number of counterfeit detections increased 38% across apparel, toys, home goods, accessories, and sporting goods. While counterfeit products have soared online during the pandemic, companies are putting a laser focus on rectifying the problem. These products not only hurt incoming revenue, but they can also pose huge health risks. Brands can use smart packaging technology to act as an authenticator for customers.  

For example, customers who bought Burberry clothing featured in a fashion show received customized cards embedded with an invisible code that granted them access to exclusive background information about their clothing, which also served to authenticate each piece. 

 

Want to stay on top on the new year trends? We’re happy to help you implement Touchcode todayGet in touch!  

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