In this special one-year anniversary episode of CoCo:Click.Consume.Connect., host Güneri Tugcu and co-host Stefan Hilss take a step back from their usual roles as interviewers and reflect on the incredible journey of the podcast so far. After a year of engaging with industry experts, thought leaders, and innovators, they turn the tables and share insights, experiences, and lessons learned throughout the first year of CoCo.

With many requests from listeners for this unique episode, Güneri and Stefan are joined by Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystem at SharpEnd, as a special guest moderator. Stefan brings his expertise in digital transformation, connected packaging, and consumer engagement to lead the conversation. Together, they explore the growth of the podcast, the fascinating guests who’ve graced their virtual stage, and the future of connected consumer experiences.

This episode is a celebration of the valuable connections made and the exciting path ahead for the podcast, highlighting the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continued learning in the fast-evolving world of digital transformation.

Tune in for an insightful, fun, and reflective anniversary episode, packed with stories, surprises, and a look ahead to what’s next!

Connected Packaging 2025 – Insights, Compliance & Future Trends

In this follow-up episode of CoCo: click.consume.connect – the connected consumers podcast, we welcome back Jenny Stanley, Founder and Managing Director of Appetite Creative, to discuss the key findings from the newly released 2025 Connected Packaging Survey.

Building on last year’s insights, we explore the shifting adoption rates, emerging engagement trends, and the evolving role of connected experiences in brand strategies. With gamification surging, serialized QR codes gaining traction, and budgets shifting, what does this mean for brands investing in consumer engagement, sustainability, and traceability?

A major focus of this episode is compliance and regulatory challenges. As brands prepare for the EU Green Deal, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, and the introduction of Digital Product Passports (DPP), we discuss how connected packaging can serve as both a compliance tool and a strategic asset. Jenny shares expert insights on how companies can align their connected packaging strategies with sustainability mandates, meet regulatory requirements, and still drive consumer loyalty.

Plus, we take a deep dive into upcoming technologies that are shaping the future of connected consumer engagement. From AI-driven personalization to next-generation digital packaging solutions, we explore what’s coming next and how brands can stay ahead.

Key topics include:

• 2025 Connected Packaging Survey results – What’s changed from last year?
• Gamification & engagement – Why more brands are using quizzes, AR, and mobile games.
• Regulations & compliance – Preparing for DPP, EPR, and sustainability requirements.
• Budget trends – A shift in investment strategies for connected packaging campaigns.
• Future innovations – The role of AI, data privacy, and emerging tech in consumer engagement.

Whether you’re in FMCG, retail, marketing, or sustainability, this episode delivers must-know insights to future-proof your connected packaging strategy.

Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve!

In the 11th episode of CoCo: click.consume.connect - the connected consumers podcast, we sit down with Camilla Young, Programme Lead for the Next Generation of Barcodes at GS1 UK.

Camilla shares GS1’s ambitious strategy to transition from traditional barcodes to 2D smart codes powered by the GS1 Digital Link Standard as part of the Sunrise 2027 initiative. We explore how this shift will revolutionize traceability, support regulatory compliance—like the Digital Product Passport (DPP)—and empower businesses to engage connected consumers with richer product information.

From challenges in adoption to GS1’s solutions and industry collaborations, this episode offers a deep dive into how GS1 is driving the future of connected packaging and smarter supply chains.

Tune in to discover how GS1 is connecting products, businesses, and consumers in ways never seen before!

In this milestone episode of CoCo: click.consume.connect., we welcome Steve Wardle, Senior Manager of Design Operations & Process at Kellanova, to explore the future of connected packaging with a focus on accessibility. Steve shares invaluable insights into how Kellanova is innovating to make packaging more inclusive, engaging, and sustainable. From bridging the gap between brands and consumers to breaking down barriers in packaging design, this episode highlights key trends and successful case studies from the connected packaging world.

One standout discussion is on the ongoing success of Kellanova’s connected packaging initiatives, including how their iconic Pringles brand has leveraged QR codes to engage consumers in new and exciting ways. How are these QR code experiences enhancing consumer interaction and brand loyalty? Steve sheds light on the innovative approaches that are transforming the way consumers engage with their favorite products.

Whether you’re a brand looking to elevate your consumer connections or simply curious about the latest in packaging technology, Steve’s expertise will leave you with fresh ideas and a deeper understanding of how accessibility is transforming the industry.

Tune in for a lively, informative conversation that’s sure to spark your next big idea in connected packaging!

In Episode 9 of CoCo: click.consume.connect, we explore how the latest innovations in connected packaging are reshaping consumer engagement, transparency, and sustainability. Host Güneri Tugcu and co-host Stefan Hilss sit down with Dominique Guinard, VP of Innovation at Digimarc, to discuss industry-shaping topics like GS1 Digital Link, Project Sunrise 2027, and Digital Product Passports.

Dominique shares insider knowledge on the standards and technologies driving today’s IoT and connected consumer experiences. From real-world applications to future predictions, this episode is packed with insights for brands, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the impact of connectivity on the products we use daily.

Tune in to discover the potential of connected packaging—and join our growing community of connected consumers by subscribing for more episodes that bridge the gap between digital transformation and real-world innovation!

In this episode of CoCo: click.consume.connect, we sit down with Søren Lethin, LEGO’s Innovation Catalyst, to uncover how the brand continues to push creative and digital boundaries. Together, we explore LEGO’s strategies for connecting with consumers through innovative packaging, digital transformation, and community engagement. Søren shares behind-the-scenes stories and examples of LEGO projects that illustrate how they’re building lasting connections.

We also dive into future trends, discussing where consumer engagement is headed and what brands can learn from LEGO’s approach. Whether you’re a brand strategist, innovation enthusiast, or just love a good conversation about consumer engagement, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we build connections, brick by brick! Don't miss out on our 3rd and final CoCo AI Podcast song at the end of this episode.

In this exclusive bonus episode of the CoCo: Click. Consume. Connect. podcast, hosts Güneri Tugcu and Stefan Hilss take you behind the scenes of their headline-making keynote at London Packaging Week 2024.

Ready to discover how smart packaging is revolutionizing the way brands connect with consumers? Drawing from real-world examples and the latest industry insights, they dive into the exciting intersection of technology, design, and consumer behavior, revealing how personalized, interactive packaging experiences are transforming everyday products into powerful communication tools.

Whether you’re curious about the future of packaging or just looking for fresh ideas on how to engage consumers, this episode is packed with inspiration. Don’t let innovation pass you by! Tune in to hear what the crowd loved and why this keynote left attendees buzzing with new ideas.

Please note that Video is only available on Spotify and YouTube, Audio only on Apple and Amazon Podcast feeds.

In the sixth episode of CoCo:Click.Consume.Connect - The Connected Consumers Podcast, we sit down with Victor Lebon, the Chief Commercial Officer of DoQmind and Executive Consultant at Lebon Consulting.

Throughout this insightful episode, we explore the critical role of digital transformation in today’s business landscape, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the importance of balancing technological innovation with a human touch. Victor provides valuable examples and case studies from his work, illustrating the tangible benefits of SaaS solutions.

Listeners will also gain practical advice on initiating digital

Tune in to discover how to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape and drive innovation in your organization. Don't miss Victor's expert predictions on the future of AI and

Don't miss out on our CoCo Podcast AI Song #2 at the end of this episode - enjoy!

In the fifth episode of CoCo: Click. Consume. Connect - the Connected Consumers Podcast, we are joined by Torsten Strauch, President of R-Pac Europe SARL. With a wealth of experience in the packaging and branding industry, Torsten shares his insights on the transformative role of smart packaging in the apparel sector. We explore how R-Pac's innovative solutions are driving sustainability and enhancing brand protection through advanced technologies like RFID.

Torsten discusses the challenges and opportunities in promoting sustainable practices, the impact of upcoming legislation on the industry, and the importance of consumer engagement in today’s connected world. He also provides a real-life case study illustrating the benefits of R-Pac’s solutions and offers predictions on future trends in the connected apparel industry.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on the future of packaging and branding, and learn how R-Pac is leading the way in creating a more sustainable and connected consumer experience. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that’s set to redefine your understanding of packaging in the fashion industry!

As a special treat for our listeners, we’re excited to present the debut of our AI-created CoCo-Podcast song!

In the fourth episode of CoCo: Click.Consume.Connect - The Connected Consumers Podcast, we are excited to welcome Jenny Stanley, the Founder and Managing Director of Appetite Creative. Jenny brings a wealth of knowledge in digital marketing and creative technology, focusing on the innovative field of connected packaging.

Join us as we delve into Appetite Creative's recently published connected packaging survey, uncovering key trends, challenges, and opportunities in this evolving landscape. Jenny shares her insights on how brands are leveraging connected packaging to enhance consumer engagement, drive sustainability, and navigate upcoming legislation.

We explore real-life examples of successful connected packaging implementations, discuss the integration of technologies like augmented reality, and examine the impact of new sustainability measures. Jenny also offers her predictions on future trends and developments in connected consumer behavior.

This episode is packed with valuable information for brands looking to stay ahead in the competitive market by utilizing connected packaging solutions. Tune in to gain expert insights and practical advice from one of the industry's leading voices.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation and be sure to