Sustainable packaging and smart retail
Research theme
Retail is a sector with lots of potential for (technological) innovation, from packaging to the shopping environment. By means of prototyping and the internet, we research how technological innovations become feasible for small retailers too. We focus on two innovation domains: ecology and sustainability on the one hand, and making the shopping experience smarter through the use of technology on the other hand. At the same time, we will describe how customers feel about this.
Minor adjustments for big effects
What are we researching and for whom?
The retail industry holds great potential for (technological) innovation, spanning from product packaging to the overall shopping environment. Despite the potential advantages, smaller retail chains and independent shops find such innovative developments beyond their reach. Keeping this target group in consideration, our focus centers on two innovation domains within the retail sector: ecology and sustainability, as well as enhancing the in-store experience through the implementation of smart technology.
Desired outcome
The utilization of the prototyping lab and employing prototyping as a research method facilitates the development, demonstration, and practical realization of technological innovations, making them accessible for smaller players and independent shops.
Research lines
Prototyping as research method
Within the prototyping lab, we have the capability to make sustainable and intelligent designs easily understandable, as well as to test and validate them. Our focus is on crafting prototypes specifically tailored for both retailers and consumers, enabling them to actively engage with these designs.
Sustainable packaging
Familiar with the 3 Rs principle? It signifies Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—the three perspectives we advocate for in the development of sustainable packaging. In addition to prioritizing sustainable design, we also focus on understanding how consumers perceive and engage with communication about sustainable packaging.
Smart retail technology
Packaging and shopping environments can be made smarter through the Internet of Things (IoT). We collect data and analyze how to effectively manage and present this information in a clear and understandable manner for shop owners and/or brand owners.
Trend analysis in retail technology and sustainability
With an annual trend report, we stay attuned to the latest advancements in the realms of retail technology and sustainability. This report alternates its focus between technology and sustainability, aspiring to become indispensable reading for retailers.
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