In May, Unilever launched an entity called The Unilever Foundry, to offer mentoring, funding and investment for start-ups to develop their ideas.
On July 22, the company issued its first five specific briefs into the start-up community on the theme, Internet of Things. One of those briefs is for smart packaging ideas.
And this is that brief: "We are looking to incorporate innovative technology into our packaging solutions to enable people to have physical and digital experiences that builds brand love in new ways. With the increased sophistication of connected devices and the IoT, smart packaging technology is undergoing a radical transformation, bridging the physical/digital divide instore and at home."
What is Unilever looking for? "To partner with innovative tech companies that are ready to experiment with us in this space. Ideally, this company will have previously created smart packaging experiences or intelligent prototypes."
Why apply? "Successful applicants will be awarded the opportunity to pilot their technology with Unilever, in exchange for US$50,000 to fund the pilot, mentorship and other services. Our ambition is that pilots might lead to longer term strategic partnerships."
Marc Mathieu, senior vice president global marketing explained Unilever's thinking, “As the world’s second largest advertiser, Unilever is always looking for new ways to engage with our consumers. The Internet of Things is transforming the home, the way we shop and the way people engage with brands. We want to inspire and lead that transformation.
“We are committed to helping more than a billion people take action to improve their health and well-being by 2020, and we believe that Internet of Things is an important enabler of helping people take small actions which add up to a big impact.”
To find out more or to respond to the Smart Packaging brief, click here.
