In its continuing efforts to discover and develop innovative technologies for the packaging industry, global packaging supplier Amcor, a longstanding member of AIPIA, has announced a USD$5m strategic investment in another AIPIA member, PragmatIC Semiconductor, a leading developer and manufacturer of ultra low-cost printed flexible electronics (PE).
Based in the UK, PragmatIC develops flexible integrated circuits (FlexICs) beyond the scope of conventional electronics, it says. Its ConnectIC family of radio frequency identification and near-field communications (RFID/NFC) integrated chips can be embedded into packaging to store and relay information to devices such as smartphones.
This technology enables smart packaging applications across the entire product lifecycle – from manufacturing and supply chain management to consumer engagement and even material recovery, says Amcor. The technology is applicable to Amcor’s wide-ranging customer base in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home, and personal-care, as well as other products.
“As the global diversified packaging leader, Amcor is well-positioned to tap into early-stage, cutting-edge innovation around sustainability and digitization,” said Frank Lehmann, VP open innovation and corporate venturing at Amcor. “We are delighted to partner with PragmatIC Semiconductor to explore ways to leverage and integrate these flexible, integrated circuits into our portfolio of more sustainable packaging solutions.”
“We are pleased to partner with an industry leader like Amcor,” added Scott White, PragmatIC Semiconductor CEO. “This investment is a testament to the value Amcor continues to place on innovation and our collective vision on how packaging can be used to connect customers and consumers with the information they need.”
Amcor’s multimillion-dollar investment was part of the Series C funding round of more than USD$90 million for PragmatIC Semiconductor.
This article was created in collaboration with AIPIA (the Active and Intelligent Packaging Industry Association). Packaging Europe and AIPIA are joining forces to bring news and commentary about the active and intelligent packaging landscape to a larger audience. To learn more about this partnership, click here.
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