2018 E-Commerce: Think Inside the Box

2018 E‑Commerce: Think Inside the Box, published by PMMI – The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, examines recent multi‑year market trends and stakeholder interviews combined with public data sources to assess how online retail is reshaping packaging and processing. The analysis indicates several focus areas—pack protection and right‑sizing (materials and corrugated strategy), machine flexibility and automation (shorter runs and IIoT readiness), supply‑chain models and fulfillment (3PL versus in‑house, last‑mile options), and traceability with anti‑counterfeit measures—where emerging patterns show shifting investment priorities. Charts highlight corrugated and machine‑buying trends and the report integrates examples including right‑sized shippers, flexible end‑of‑line equipment, and wearable‑enabled warehouses. The report reveals where packaging and processing leaders are prioritizing investments to strengthen operational resilience.