Esko and io.tt have entered a strategic partnership to embed connected-packaging tools directly into Esko’s workflow software, aiming to reduce design and development costs for brand owners.
The deal integrates io.tt’s pre-configured ‘experience templates’ into Esko platforms including ArtPro+, Automation Engine, WebCenter and comply. It gives packaging teams a single environment to create and manage on-pack digital experiences without separate development work or manual design changes.
Cameron Worth, CEO and founder of io.tt, said, “As an official Connected Packaging Partner to Esko, we’re bringing connected packaging, and their common use-cases, into the everyday workflow for brands. By embedding io.tt templates within Esko’s trusted tools, brands can now activate digital experiences from day zero – reducing design complexity, cutting development costs, and accelerating time to market.”
Esko said the move extends its workflow tools beyond physical packaging processes by enabling brands to integrate digital engagement functions at the start of design.
Jan De Roeck, marketing director at Esko, said, “This collaboration with io.tt represents a big step forward in how packaging workflows can serve both operational and strategic business goals. By embedding connected packaging capabilities directly into ArtPro+, Automation Engine, WebCenter, and comply, we are helping brands to build digital experiences into their packaging from the design stage, not as an afterthought. This means faster go-to-market and seamless compliance with emerging regulations, and more meaningful consumer engagement.”
Esko said the partnership links its packaging design and automation systems with io.tt’s connected-product infrastructure, giving brands access to standard templates within their everyday tools. According to the companies, this is intended to support the creation of compliant, data-driven packaging at scale.
The companies list several benefits for brand owners, including reduced design and development work, shorter timelines due to fewer handovers between physical and digital teams, support for regulations such as the EU Digital Product Passport and GS1 Sunrise, and unified reporting by linking io.tt’s Connect and Insights with Esko systems.
