ITENE’s mission is to generate scientific and technological knowledge by adding value to companies through the implementation of packaging, transportation and logistic innovation solutions. In this respect their contribution to the TRADEIT project is unique and impacts upon all sectors equally. The Needs and Barriers Analysis, undertaken at the commencement of the project, identified packaging and logistics as two of the main areas impacting upon small businesses and limiting their ability to grow. These challenges are often related as packing solutions extend shelf life and therefore supports a wide range of logistical solutions open to small businesses looking to sell their products across a broader geographical base.

With the above in mind, this brokerage event was design to provide the Traditional Food Producer (TFP) SMEs with as many options as possible to their packing needs. By locating the event at HISPACK, it meant that they could explore a wide range of options and also access a substantial body of expertise.

The brokerage event formula used at the Sustainability Brokerage Event (discussed in Lesson 2), which took place at ANUGA FOODTEC, provided a template for this event, but the ambition was to build upon that and to add even more value for the SME participants.

The event aimed to provide the TFPs with the opportunity to explore new packaging solutions and technologies. The focus was on cutting edge technologies such as active and intelligent packaging, machinery, packaging optimization and new labelling, which would enable the food producers to extend the shelf life of their products, save costs and be aware of the ultimate trends in packaging innovation.­

A number of large, high profile packaging technology companies represented on the rostrum, presenting some very advanced technologies. But keeping in mind the scale of the companies in the TRADEIT network and in attendance, there was a focus on ensuring that the solutions offered were relevant to the small food producers in the room.  Below is an overview of the main subject areas covered by the speakers:

	Active & Intelligent Packaging has a role to play in reduction of waste, in extending shelf-life, decimating costs and giving a more reliable indication of goods condition.
	A novel commercial colour-code label indicator method to monitor and show the freshness and deterioration of packed chicken breasts.
	Active packaging describes mainly food packaging that interacts chemically or biologically with its contents or head space to extend shelf-life or enhance food safety.
	Bosch explored the next generation of packaging machines which they believe must be cabinet-free, adaptive, simple, efficient, and ready for connected industry as end users wish to optimize use of their production space.
	FIAB brought users up-to-date with Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers which entered into application on 13th December 2014.
	Unilever Sustainable Living Plan sets out how they plan to decouple their growth from environmental impact while increasing positive social impact.
	Research and Development projects are business projects of an applied nature for the creation and significant improvement of a production process, product or service submitted by one single company or by a group of businesses.

In addition to the expert’s contribution, two interactive workshops were held which allowed demonstrations and interactive discussions to take place. From ITENE, Mercedes Hortal demonstrated the benefits of active and intelligent packaging. Elena Cortes from the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) moderated a discussion on how technology can meet the needs of small scale food producers in the field of packaging. These workshops followed a guided tour of the exhibition halls where specific technology solutions were identified that might meet the needs of the dairy, bakery and meat sectors.

To really consolidate the learning from this event, parallel workshops were held for each of the sectors in which experts from TRADEIT, packaging, FIAB and a sector expert (bakery, dairy or meat) held small very specific discussion with the SMEs to try to identify solutions to specific problems. This resulted in some very lively discussions as the SMEs challenged the experts to find solutions to their problems that were cost effective, added value and were technically feasible for a small producer.

The key learning outcome from this event, is that technology is moving fast and its very impressive. While the SMEs really valued the information and knowledge gained, they may not be in a position to invest in cutting edge systems and approaches. Currently technology, which is still new to the SMEs, may be innovative enough for their needs.