Chicago, IL: As smart packaging has the potential to disrupt the industry, a Chicago-based technology scouting company, PreScouter, is asking an important question: which technologies are readily available for commercial use? In July, they released a research report detailing some companies providing just that. The company believes this report could help any company actively looking to integrate a smart packaging solution into their product, find the right fit today. And with companies in a constant race to fulfill consumer demands and stay at the forefront of their industry, the report couldn’t have come sooner.

The report was born out of the significant interest we’ve seen from both companies and the general public says PreScouter CEO, Dino Gane. As a tech enthusiast himself, Gane says “The Internet of Things has spread to really cover EVERY-thing, and packaging is no exception. In the past, the main function of packaging was to ensure the safe delivery of the product and validation of it being new. Today, companies are looking well beyond these goals. Now, smart packaging technologies are able to deliver pre- and post-sale insights, real-time data, brand protection, direct consumer engagement, among other functions.”

The report classifies the smart packaging solutions according to four main technologies: Bar codes/QR codes, sensors/printed electronics, augmented reality, and smart indicators/pigments/inks. Examples from 11 companies offering a smart packaging solution are showcased in the report.

Marija Jovic, PreScouter Project Architect for the packaging industry, sees a growing demand for these products noting that “not only have we seen high interest from our clients’ side in this topic, but also according to recent market reports, the global smart packaging market is expected to grow at a high rate, between 5% to 10.6% CAGR.” Jovic holds a PhD in chemistry and a Master degree in polymer synthesis and engineering. She has worked on more than 100 projects for dozens of clients.

This report could be pivotal to companies looking to make the smart packaging shift within the next year or two. With counterfeiting, brand tampering and food recalls on the rise, time is of the essence. PreScouter hopes that this report will provide companies with the insights and knowledge needed to make more informed decisions.

About PreScouter, Inc.: PreScouter provides research support services to help business leaders make better R&D, product development and corporate development decisions. PreScouter’s custom-selected teams of Advanced Degree Researchers and Industry Experts connect business leaders with new markets, commercializable technologies, industry-impacting startups, and other actionable data. PreScouter’s growing list of 500+ clients includes GE Healthcare, Coca Cola, BAE Systems, Clorox, and Volvo.