42CLÚSTER DEL PACKAGING Noticias News For his part, Isidre Argerich emphasized that traceability is part of the company’s DNA thanks to its vertically integrated model, which encompasses everything from the farms to the points of sale. He explained that the innovation lies in conveying all this information to the consumer through QR codes that allow them to learn about the origin of each product, its production process, and even certain production parameters. He added that the company has already implemented this system in around 150 products and plans to continue expanding it. Regarding regulation, both agreed that it is more of an opportunity than an obligation. Gabriel de Mariscal stated that transparency allows for communicating aspects related to sustainability, efficiency, and the circular economy, while Isidre Argerich pointed out that consumers increasingly demand verifiable information about the products they consume. Regarding operational efficiency, Isidre Argerich explained that access to historical data and forecasting tools allows for adjusting production to actual demand, significantly reducing food waste. He also highlighted the use of artificial intelligence to optimize sales forecasts, production processes, and quality controls. Gabriel de Mariscal, for his part, noted that data collection and analysis is a fundamental tool for identifying opportunities for improvement in sustainability and efficiency, especially in the agricultural and livestock sectors. One of the most innovative projects presented was RetornA, the returnable packaging system developed by bonÀrea. Isidre Argerich explained that the initiative was born with the goal of reducing the use of single-use packaging for fresh meat products. After a pilot test, the company has achieved very high return rates and avoided the consumption of thousands of disposable trays. Furthermore, the system incorporates RFID technology and QR codes that allow tracking the usage history of each package and quantifying the savings generated in plastic and emissions. He indicated that one of the main challenges has been achieving a change in consumer habits. In the final part of the discussion, both speakers agreed that the move towards more sustainable models will require not only business innovation, but also the involvement of consumers, government agencies, and the entire value chain. While companies continue to adapt to new regulatory and technological requirements, they considered it essential to continue promoting transparency and traceability as tools to build trust and accelerate the sustainable transformation of the sector. The geopolitical context This year’s Packaging Talks concluded with an analysis of the impact of the new geopolitical context on European industry, presented by Héctor Sánchez Margalef, senior researcher at CIDOB (Barcelona Centre for International Affairs). He addressed how trade tensions, international conflicts, the redefinition of supply chains, and the emergence of new economic blocs are transforming the competitive environment for industrial companies. In this context, Sánchez emphasized that “changes in globalization are forcing companies to incorporate the geopolitical factor into their decision-making,” underscoring the need to anticipate risks and adapt business strategies to an increasingly complex and uncertain global scenario.
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