This past spring Major League Baseball (MLB) changed its famous logo of the iconic silhouetted batter. The ubiquitous logo was originally designed by Jerry Dior in the late 1960s and has remained largely untouched.

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.

In the competitive retail space it is imperative for brands to stay on top of evolving trends and consumer behavior. Thanks to technology, businesses have access to greater freedom and flexibility, enabling them to optimize packaging for a better customer experience.

Growing desire to reduce the depletion of natural resources, non-renewable energy sources and rainforests is pushing manufacturers toward more environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

PTI, a global leader in plastic packaging development, has named Sumit Mukherjee as chief technology officer.

The cannabis packaging market has undergone significant growth, and various companies in many segments have recently launched recyclable packaging — such as metal cans, compostable cellophane bags and compostable pouches. Product marketing through packaging should be a focus, but meeting local and federal laws is critical for success.

Developing a packaging strategy is a fundamental step toward aligning with high-level business goals and making the most of every dollar and minute you invest in packaging.

Over four months since Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, many are still fighting to survive amid the devastation of the storm. For those struggling to find potable water, relief is coming in the form of an innovative pouch developed by Sawyer Products and Flair Flexible Packaging. The new water transport and filtration pouch provides a simple means of collecting, carrying and eliminating pathogenic bacteria from even the most heavily contaminated water.

Filling and closing has become more flexible, more compact and somewhat confusing. Should you buy the hype? The machinery has two jobs: Filling a pouch, bottle, carton, vial or the like and then closing it – by sealing, capping or otherwise.

For decades, the food and beverage industry has been driven by manufacturing technologies, line speeds and unit costs. But, in spite of record levels of consumers demanding frustration-free packaging, companies have paid little attention to the design for consumer experience.