# Ready Digital Packaging Platforms Markem-Imaje Preps Brands for GS1 Sunrise with CoLOS By Adam Harrie | Written with AI assistance | Published 2026-09-24 | Business Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/connected-packaging-platforms References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/markem-imaje-launches-colos-2d-activate-and-colos-2d-engage-to-accelerate-manufacturers-transition-to-connected-consumer-packaging-302887896.html)  Markem-Imaje built 'CoLOS 2D Activate' and 'CoLOS 2D Engage' as SaaS systems for CPG and FMCG manufacturers, with consulting support that checks production setups and [coding workflows](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/videojet-c). They help companies prepare for GS1 Sunrise 2027 while turning [package codes into digital touchpoints](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/integrate-to-power-dpps). The software handles both fixed and dynamic [GS1 Digital Link QR codes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/connectqr), giving teams one place to manage packaging data and consumer-facing links. That matters because the same code can move from checkout to traceability to tailored content, instead of acting like a last-minute label added at the end of production. For brands, this means connected packaging becomes a planned part of operations rather than a bolt-on marketing layer. The consulting review and roadmap also help teams spot process gaps early and decide where investment is needed before broader QR programs take shape. Image Credit: Dover ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.9/10 - Popularity: 17% | Activity: 39% | Freshness: 92% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business) > [Retail](https://www.trendhunter.com/retail) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Connected Packaging Operations:** Packaging workflows are shifting toward integrated digital systems that turn every code into a managed data asset across retail, traceability, and consumer engagement. - **GS1 Digital Link Readiness:** Standardized QR adoption is creating room for platforms that simplify compliance while enabling brands to repurpose packaging codes for richer product experiences. - **Saas Coding Infrastructure:** Cloud-based coding tools are emerging as a scalable foundation for manufacturers seeking centralized control over dynamic product data and packaging interactions. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Consumer Packaged Goods:** CPG brands can use digital packaging systems to connect production accuracy, shopper engagement, and supply chain visibility through a single package code. - **Fast-moving Consumer Goods:** High-volume FMCG environments benefit from operational platforms that make code management faster, more adaptable, and more valuable beyond checkout. - **Packaging Technology:** Packaging technology providers are positioned to expand from equipment and labels into data-driven services that support compliance, analytics, and connected product ecosystems. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Branded QR Code Generators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/self-serve-QR.md) - [Dynamic QR Management](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr-code-developer.md) - [Traceable Packaging Labels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Traceable-packaging-labels.md) - [Laser-Marked Packaging Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/laser-marking-concept.md) - [Inkless QR Marking Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/GS1-compliant-QR-codes.md) - [Efficient Operations-Focused Software Suites](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/software-suite.md) - [Dynamic Scannable Product Codes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fazer-remix-30th-anniversary-candy-bag.md) - [Smart Labeling Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Smart-labeling-systems.md) - [Food Supplier Compliance Partnerships](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/traceability-regulation.md)