Augmented Reality, known as AR, is a concept where we use technology to superimpose virtual information on to the world that we see. Gaming is one popular application of this technology. Did you know that product packaging is another? In fact, augmented reality has incredibly useful applications in the packaging industry. This fascinating technology can be used to enhance product packaging, improve brand loyalty, attract new customers, and stand out from competitors. The best part? Often, all you need is a QR code or a bit of minor tweaking to your package design.

Reliability is a key component when choosing any kind of machinery or mechanical device. When hundreds of thousands of products and a business’ entire distribution process is on the line, reliability becomes even more important. Considering which machines or manufacturers are the best is a subjective process. What is best can mean one thing for a smaller business and something very different for a larger one. Best can also mean different things depending on your specific packaging needs, regardless of volume.

If you want to achieve maximum efficiency with your production and packaging strategies, it’s never been enough to operate with a day-to-day, tactical mentality. This short-term mindset will only go as far as helping you accomplish daily tasks and meeting project goals. But in 2018 especially, it takes a much more proactive approach to realize long-term organizational success and achieve the efficiencies that have a lasting impact on your bottom line and growth.

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.

Let’s say you bought the highest-quality shrink film money can buy and stored it away for future use. On a scale of one to 10, how upset would you be if it became unusable or deteriorated into the worst shrink film money could buy? No matter how high-quality the packaging material is, you must take proper precautions when storing it.

No plant can streamline its operations and maximize its efficiency without preventative maintenance and planned shutdowns. Of course, you have to develop an optimal plan to make the most of a such a project. Temporarily shutting down your plant or factory can be very expensive, whether it was planned for two years or due to an emergency. Yet studies have demonstrated that the short-term expenses are more than offset by improved plant efficiency and operations, including lower energy use and markedly fewer unexpected mechanical failures.