Augmented reality and artificial intelligence are propelling more than 500 wineries across the globe into futuristic marketing that cleverly connects wine-labels with millennial wine lovers.

In live demonstrations at Pack Expo, Siemens showcased digital technologies like the digital twin and closed-loop innovation for the packaging industry.

As consumer screen time continuously increases, beverage brands are adapting to this trend and tailoring their strategies to reach them.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the latest solutions that are arming distributors with not only the most up-to-date safety features, but with real-time intelligence that enables them to run smarter.

Consumers’ acceptance of purchasing consumer packaged goods (CPGs) from a variety of retail outlets as well as their desire for more choice is not just impacting retailers but the entire distribution network as it looks to accommodate a much more diverse shopping universe.

Omron Automation Americas highlighted its new artificial intelligence (AI) controller solution that assists the data-driven decision process for predictive maintenance.

According to Information Resources Inc. (IRI), out-of-stock products cost U.S. retailers approximately $47.4 billion each year.

As eCommerce grows and consumers become more accustomed to at-home delivery of all types of products, subscriptions services are evolving and offering a variety of specialty products and services, further driving the appeal to consumers.

This month, the Moustache Coffee Club, Los Angeles, debuted an artificial intelligence (AI) program that recommends specific coffees to its members based on their taste preferences. The AI evaluates coffee based on attributes including flavor notes, production methods and area of origin before selecting and shipping subscribers a coffee that best fits each subscriber's individual preferences, the company says.