FuturE-Pack. Toward a taxonomy of smart solutions for advanced packaging design

This paper presents the first phase of the research project FuturE-Pack. Digital Advanced Design for the Enhancement of Packaging as a ‘Broadcaster’ in the Made in Italy Supply Chain, developed within the MICS partnership (Spoke 1). The study investigates the role of digitally enhanced packaging as a mediator and communication device within contemporary supply chains, with particular attention to e-commerce and the fashion sector. Starting from a conceptual reframing of packaging as a smart system—integrating intelligent and interactive technologies—the research maps the current state of the art through the systematic collection and analysis of case studies. A total of 185 cases were gathered and classified using a shared template and a structured digital database. The analysis led to the development of an articulated taxonomy of smart solutions organized by digital systems, including data carriers (e.g., QR codes, RFID, NFC, digital watermarks), indicators, sensors, and enabling technologies (e.g., IoT, AI, blockchain, cloud computing). Beyond technological classification, the taxonomy connects digital solutions to strategic objectives such as traceability, product identity, environmental impact communication, anti-counterfeiting, logistics optimization, and user engagement. The proposed framework supports designers and stakeholders in identifying coherent innovation trajectories aligned with circular economy principles and the three pillars of sustainability (environmental, social, economic). The research contributes a structured interpretative model to guide the integration of digital technologies into advanced packaging design, reinforcing its function as a “broadcaster” of value, data, and territorial identity within the Made in Italy ecosystem.