Digital packaging: MICS’s FuturE-Pack project
As already highlighted in the September 2024 edition of MICAM by Tamara Cloé Leguía of WGSN, sustainability is an increasingly central theme, not only from a product innovation standpoint but also when it comes to packaging. Within this context, the FuturE-Pack project is particularly interesting: developed as part of MICS Made in Italy Circolare e Sostenibile, it rethinks the role of packaging by integrating digital technologies such as QR codes, NFC, blockchain and AI. Packaging thus becomes an intelligent platform capable of gathering and providing useful data throughout the product’s life cycle.
Digital packaging offers a range of advantages in the fight against counterfeiting thanks to unique digital identifiers that verify product authenticity, but it is also an important marketing tool, enabling personalised content, dynamic campaigns and direct interaction with customers. Digital packaging is also useful for sustainability, as it reduces the use of paper-based informational materials and supports circular-economy models by providing guidance on recycling, reuse and re-manufacturing. Last but not least, it integrates with the Digital Product Passport, supporting traceability and compliance with European regulations.
FuturE-Pack’s technology architecture brings together solutions such as dynamic QR codes, NFC systems, blockchain and artificial intelligence. QR codes allow for post-production updates and access to technical data; NFC interfaces offer instant authentication; blockchain enhances traceability security; artificial intelligence organises complex data into useful information. One key outcome is an interactive digital platform that gathers knowledge on materials and technologies relating to smart packaging and sustainable packaging. Designers, companies and supply-chain operators can use standardised information models and guidelines to integrate digital technologies.
In the fashion e-commerce landscape, pilot projects developed together with Zerobarracento, Astrakode and Movopack confirm that connected, reusable packaging has now become a cornerstone of brand experience and product transparency. The system makes it possible, for example, to share with the user the traceability of raw materials, the criteria used to select materials and the manufacturing methods. At the same time, the digital support guides the customer after purchase with useful guidance on washing, correct use and extending the garment’s life cycle, finally incorporating logistics details relating to shipping and the return procedures for the circular packaging.
PFAS and the new international standards for harmonising measures will be discussed at next Thursday’s event.