Baby Boomers living longer than previous generations, coupled with the increase in healthcare options and affordability in emerging economies around the world, are contributing to the increasing demand for disposable instruments in the healthcare industry.

Three experts from around the industry weigh in on the latest trends, technologies and practices that brands can leverage to effectively tackle multiplying stock keeping units (SKUs) and bolster efficiency, sustainability, security and brand experience through customization and personalization.

PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2019, co-located with Healthcare Packaging EXPO 2019, is the year's most comprehensive packaging event on the continent. The shows will offer the latest packaging technologies to help manufacturers improve operations and stay competitive.

While the growth in online purchasing drives changes from product design, to package changes, picking, fulfilling and shipping, product protection stands alone as the main issue, according to the E-Commerce: Think Inside the Box report by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

E-commerce, concern over food waste and consumer demand for fresh, ready-to-eat (RTE) foods are spurring innovation in the food preservation market. On-the-go consumers are seeking healthy, fresh and RTE options in categories like meats, dairy and juices as an alternative to processed snacks found in the center grocery aisles.

Smart packaging has come a long way – snack food bags can detect drunk drivers and beer bottles can play music – but more brands are investing in smart labels to connect brands and technology.