Toppan Develops Smart Packages with Built-in NFC Functions

NFC tags integrated into packaging structure enhance security, preserve design quality, and help streamline manufacturing.

Tokyo – June 22, 2021 – Toppan Printing (Toppan) (TYO: 7911), a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials, and electronics solutions has integrated tamper-evident NFC1 tag functions into the structure of paper-based packages to develop a new type of smart packaging that enhances security and helps streamline the manufacturing process while also preserving package design. Toppan has initially created four concept types for this packaging and will offer customization matched to client needs going forward.

RFID, NFC, and other ID technologies have been used for product management for some time. Labels for this purpose are commonly applied to the surfaces of product packages. This, however, can negatively impact printed graphics or appearance because packages are not necessarily designed to accommodate such a label, and the need to apply labels during packaging manufacture also increases the workload. Another disadvantage is that labels can be removed as well as reapplied to other items, giving rise to potential risks of counterfeiting, grey market diversion, and other fraudulent activities in the supply chain.

To combat these issues, Toppan has developed smart packaging whereby the ID label is embedded in the package itself. Integrating the NFC tag function as a part of the packaging structure ensures a higher level of security and helps to reduce the workload associated with applying conventional NFC labels to packages. With this new concept, Toppan will accelerate the creation of smart packages incorporating ID authentication technologies to cater to businesses looking to advance digital transformation (DX) in their manufacturing and sales processes.