In an increasingly connected world, there are few areas that the internet hasn’t gotten its megabytes into. The rise of data sharing is only on track to continue, with the Internet of Things (IoT) growing in scope and significance. In keeping with this rising trend, smart packaging (also known as intelligent packaging) is becoming the new standard in the manufacturing space. Think of it as an upgrade — like watches and televisions, adding “smart” elements to packaging can vastly improve the consumer’s (and manufacturer’s) experience, with infinite opportunities to take advantage of the technology. Read on to learn all about the possibilities of smart packaging, and how it’s being utilized by manufacturers.

You’ve probably heard the term Internet of Things (IoT), but what does this ubiquitous industry buzzword refer to, exactly? The IoT is the interconnectedness of everyday objects and machinery to the internet through computerization (microchips, sensors, etc.), enabling inanimate items to exchange data and communicate with other connected objects. Industry insiders are predicting that the IoT could change manufacturing as we know it by tracking and measuring every previously unquantified element of operations. Read on for everything you need to know about the IoT and packaging, including what’s trending now, how companies are innovating, and a predictive look forward.

2019 is fast approaching, which means it’s a good time to think about the state of the e-commerce packaging industry. By understanding where it’s headed and what trends are on the horizon, you’re in a better position to ensure that your business stays current and competitive.

Advances in technology are often the driving forces behind businesses’ improved efficiencies and competitive advantages. In nearly every industry in the world, technological innovation separates businesses from their competitors and ultimately pushes the entire industry forward – forcing all companies to adapt or risk irrelevance.

In the age of the technology boom it's important to take a look at how you bring your products to market. Do you need to consider the boom in e-commerce when it comes to your current packaging designs? Some believe it's necessary depending on your product line and target markets while others are using it as a way to catapult their business by packaging with a new set of eyes and creativity, creating a bond between the consumer and the brand. How has the digital age influenced product packaging? Here's the latest on how digital is influencing packaging aesthetics and how you can too, with research to back it up!

As a business owner, you know that making sales is probably the most exciting part of your business. But what happens after the order is placed? Somehow your product needs to end up in your customer's hands. If you've been manufacturing, distributing, and selling for a while, you've probably thought about storage space, shipping, and fulfillment. And, while you could do all of this stuff yourself, you may be able to save time and money by outsourcing these elements of your business to a contract packaging company. For over two decades, Industrial Packaging has been managing warehousing and fulfillment as part of our contract packaging services for countless businesses. This article will explore how outsourcing your warehousing and fulfillment responsibilities to a contract packaging company can benefit your business.