And how can it help your business?
The two branches of connected packaging are:
- Quick Response (QR) codes: A unique square code that’s printed onto your packaging – sending consumers to the linked URL once the code has been scanned.
- Near-Field Communication (NFC): A tag embedded within your package that consumers can place their phone near, guiding them to whatever information you’ve linked.
Your business can use either of these methods as a communication route with your consumers.
As technology evolves, your packaging should too – staying up to date on trends and the functionalities of connected packaging can set your brand apart.
Benefits of Connected Packaging
When you have a connected aspect on your packaging, it’s another platform for a call-to-action for your customers. With a quick scan of your product with their phone, customers are easily on their way to further engaging with your brand. Making it super simple for customers to feel more connected with the messaging behind your brand.
Use a dynamic code – the encoded URL should take customers to a second URL that you can change whenever you want. Instead of having to change the code design on your package each time you want to change the URL.
How is it put onto my package?
All these options are easily added, either through the design or printing process.
Once your design has been established, and QR codes set up, they’re ready to be printed and sent on their way to being scanned by your customers.
With NFC’s, they’re applied during inline printing, like your zippers or valves being added to your package.
Be sure to include in your design process a call-to-action about these connected features on your package – let your customers know there’s another level to your package.
Ideas
There’s a lot of freedom when it comes to connected packaging, let’s go through some together!
Bring customers to:
- Socials (Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, etc.)
- Maybe even a specific post
- A customized message
- Your latest video, project, etc.
- Current promotion, points system, or discounts
- Recipe guides for best results of your product
- How-to videos or guides
- A story of your products process
- Thorough breakdown of your ingredients or nutrients
- Sustainable or environmental initiatives you want to highlight
- A playlist
- Brand scape (AR)
- NFT’s – a new NFT with each purchase of your product
- Hidden Gems
- A Feedback Form
Method of Authentication
With connected packaging, it’s an easier method for uploading information on batch information, package authentication, recall updates, package tracing, or combats counterfeiting. Whether you have QR codes or NFCs, your package can provide information directly from you. Keeping your customers up-to-date, and informed.
Connected Packaging is Sustainable Packaging
Consumers are making conscious decisions when making their purchases, and if you’re taking active steps towards a more eco-conscious future – emphasize that to your customers.
Connected packaging emphasizes sustainability by having your information electronically rather than adding more paper or plastic to your package.
You also don’t have to hand out information or coupons, your customers can scan or tap to get the right information.
Any information can live on a digital experience of your choice, through connected packaging.
Digital additions to your package can improve customer engagement, take your customers on a journey past the unboxing experience!