11 May 2024: The French start-up was created in 2020 with a the aim to replace batteries with biofuel cells. Since then, BeFC has advanced its work in developing digital printed solutions, which are cost effective and fully recyclable. DS Smith is allocating R&D resources to help accelerate BeFC’s work, jointly investigating smart packaging made from recyclable paper.

The focus will be on:

• Product tracking: Embedding a bespoke sensing platform and data protocols in digital solutions, allowing for real-time tracking and monitoring of products. This enhances the consumer experience and helps with supply chain optimisation
• Reducing waste: Extending the shelf life of products by providing accurate information about freshness and expiration dates, helping to address wastage
• Efficiency in transportation: Enabling better load optimisation, reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping, also helping to save on operational costs

Magnus Renman, group r&d director, DS Smith said: “Corrugated packaging together with smart tech has a huge potential to reduce waste across the supply chain but we’re not quite yet where we need to be. We need more smart solutions that tackle inefficiency, cost and, most importantly, carbon emissions. We’re excited to be addressing this challenge head-on with BeFC through innovative, circular solutions designed to slash losses and improve sustainability. With BeFC’s transformative technology but we’re set on revolutionising how every industry tackles the scourge of supply chain waste.”

Jules Hammond, chief executive, BeFC, said: “The DS Smith x BeFC collaboration is a great example of combining shared expertise and resources to tackle inefficiencies and reduce waste and carbon emissions in supply chains whilst also understanding and validating compatibility with relevant recycling streams.”