Thinfilm strengthens NFC label conversion services in Europe

Thinfilm and Beneli will collaborate to deliver Thinfilm’s NFC technology, featuring both SpeedTap and OpenSense tags supported by a cloud-based software platform, to existing Beneli clients and other leading consumer brands across a range of markets. Beneli holds a strong presence in the spirits, medical, cosmetics and tobacco verticals, and also serves the food, pharmaceuticals and logistics industries. Initial market trials are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2017.

Each SpeedTap and OpenSense tag is uniquely identifiable and virtually impossible to clone, and can be read with the simple tap of an NFC-enabled smartphone or device. Once tapped, tags wirelessly communicate with the cloud, creating a powerful one-to-one mobile marketing platform from which brands can connect directly with consumers. As a result, marketers are able to instantly deliver authentication messages, promotional offers, product news and other relevant content. OpenSense technology also offers additional protection against package tampering and refill fraud.

Thinfilm views label and packaging integration services as a critical component of its NFC offering. Conversion capabilities delivered through qualified partners, such as Beneli, in addition to the hardware and software provided by Thinfilm, create a one-stop-shop path for brands in search of smart packaging options.

Thinfilm continues to build out its converter program globally, and expects to have approximately 30 vertically specialized partners in place by the end of 2017. Thinfilm CEO Davor Sutija, CEO of Thinfilm, explained: ‘Our partnership with a European leader such as Beneli fills a key geographic need for us and, as a result, significantly extends our conversion services in Scandinavia and throughout Europe. The enhanced capabilities Thinfilm gains through this partnership will be critical as we look to meet the growing demands of leading consumer brands, mobile marketers and digital agencies.’

In addition, the relationship extends Beneli’s wireless product offering beyond RFID asset tracking to now include NFC for consumer engagement and authentication applications.

Jimmy Sterner, CEO of Beneli, said: ‘I’m very excited about our partnership with Thinfilm and the ability it gives us to deliver more value to our customers. With Thinfilm’s NFC technology, we can now offer a powerful solutions platform that significantly enhances the ability of brand owners to connect and communicate with consumers.’