Smart packaging is changing the way people think about product packaging, moving beyond simple containment to create interactive and intelligent solutions. Smart packaging enhances traditional packaging by incorporating cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), radio-frequency identification (RFID), and smart sensors. This integration allows for features like real-time tracking, enhanced product safety, and interactive consumer experiences, creating new possibilities for brands and consumers. Growing demand for sustainability, real-time tracking, and interactive consumer engagement is fueling rapid expansion in this industry. Extrapolate estimates that the global smart packaging market will reach USD 37.40 billion by 2032. This blog highlights the key players at the forefront of the smart packaging market and their contributions to reshaping packaging solutions.
10 Key Companies Innovating the Smart Packaging Market
1. AERO Verpackungs GmbH
AERO Verpackungs GmbH specializes in high-performance packaging solutions designed to maintain product integrity and freshness. The company offers intelligent temperature-controlled packaging, ensuring optimal storage conditions for pharmaceuticals, food, and perishable goods. Customization and sustainability remain central to AERO’s packaging innovations.
2. Amcor Plc
Amcor is a global leader in developing flexible and rigid packaging solutions with smart features. The company incorporates digital printing, QR codes, and NFC technology to enable real-time product tracking and authentication. Lightweight, recyclable, and intelligent packaging innovations reinforce Amcor’s commitment to sustainability and functionality.
In May 2024, Amcor opened its European Innovation Center in Belgium. This facility collaborates with brands and retailers across the region to design packaging solutions that enhance consumer experiences.
3. AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
Avery Dennison Corporation is revolutionizing the smart packaging market with RFID-enabled labels and intelligent tracking solutions. The company provides anti-counterfeiting measures, interactive packaging, and real-time inventory management technologies. Retail, healthcare, and logistics industries benefit from Avery Dennison’s advanced labeling solutions.
In February 2024, Avery Dennison launched an enhanced industrial inlays and tags portfolio featuring the Impinj M830 chip. This upgrade improves RFID performance, enabling better read range, faster inventory management, and enhanced reliability for industrial applications. The new portfolio supports smart packaging in various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, and supply chain operations.\
4. BASF SE
BASF SE plays a significant role in the smart packaging market by developing cutting-edge materials that address key industry challenges. Their work includes the creation of biodegradable and high-barrier coatings, designed specifically to extend the shelf life of packaged goods. These advancements contribute to reducing food waste and offer more sustainable packaging options. A core strength of BASF's innovation lies in the integration of nanotechnology and chemical engineering within their active and intelligent packaging solutions. This focus on enhanced preservation contributes significantly to minimizing waste throughout the supply chain and in consumer households. Furthermore, BASF's commitment to eco-friendly solutions directly supports global sustainability goals.
5. Crown
Crown specializes in smart metal packaging solutions, embedding IoT connectivity into aluminum cans and containers. The company’s intelligent packaging features include interactive labels, freshness indicators, and tamper-proof technology. Beverage and food brands leverage Crown’s solutions to enhance consumer engagement and brand authenticity.
6. DuPont
DuPont pioneers smart packaging innovations with high-performance materials and barrier technologies. The company’s offerings include intelligent films, moisture-resistant coatings, and antimicrobial packaging solutions. Pharmaceuticals and food industries rely on DuPont’s materials to ensure product safety, durability, and extended shelf life.
7. Eutecma gmbh
Eutecma gmbh specializes in temperature-controlled packaging, ensuring cold-chain compliance for pharmaceuticals and perishable goods. The company’s smart packaging solutions integrate real-time monitoring, thermal insulation, and sustainable cooling technologies. Precision and reliability define eutecma’s approach to intelligent packaging.
8. Sealed Air
Sealed Air is one of the leading players in the smart packaging market that develops innovative protective and active packaging solutions for industries requiring high-performance security. Smart packaging technologies, including vacuum sealing, freshness indicators, and interactive packaging, help brands optimize product safety and quality. Sustainability initiatives drive Sealed Air’s advancements in eco-friendly smart packaging.
9. Stora Enso
Stora Enso is a leader in fiber-based smart packaging solutions, integrating RFID and NFC technology into sustainable materials. The company develops intelligent paperboard and packaging that enable traceability, authenticity verification, and consumer interaction. Renewable packaging innovations position Stora Enso at the forefront of sustainable smart packaging.
In January 2023, Stora Enso acquired De Jong Packaging Group, one of the largest corrugated packaging producers in the Benelux region. This acquisition strengthens Stora Enso’s position in renewable packaging in Europe, expanding its market reach and production capacity in sustainable packaging solutions.
10. Tetra Pak Group
Tetra Pak Group revolutionizes the smart packaging market with connected and interactive packaging solutions. The company incorporates digital printing, track-and-trace technology, and IoT sensors into its cartons and aseptic packaging. Transparency, food safety, and sustainability define Tetra Pak’s smart packaging innovations.
In February 2024, Tetra Pak partnered with Appetite Creative and Rauch to launch an interactive smart packaging solution. This initiative enhances consumer engagement by integrating QR codes on packaging, providing access to digital experiences, product information, and sustainability insights. The collaboration aims to boost brand interaction while promoting environmentally friendly packaging
Final Thoughts
The smart packaging market is undergoing a period of rapid evolution, driven by advancements in technology and shifting consumer demands. Industry giants like Amcor, BASF, and Avery Dennison are at the forefront of this transformation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with connected packaging solutions. Several key factors are fueling innovation within this dynamic landscape. Intelligent tracking capabilities, enabled by technologies like RFID and NFC, are revolutionizing supply chain management, offering unprecedented visibility into product movement and enabling real-time monitoring of goods. This enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and plays a crucial role in combating counterfeiting and ensuring product authenticity.
In the future, even more sophisticated features are expected to be integrated into packaging, such as interactive displays that provide real-time information. Thus, the smart packaging market is expected to experience continued growth and innovation, promising to transform how consumers interact with everyday products.
