Identiv completes smart packaging pilot launch for OTACA Tequila

US – US-based digital security and identification company Identiv has completed the pilot launch of its near-field communication (NFC) enabled smart packaging for spirit brand OTACA Tequila.

With over 5,000 bottles of tequila successfully digitized during the pilot launch, OTACA plans to ramp its production plans with Identiv to an additional 50,000 bottles of Reposado tequila in the first quarter of 2023.

First announced in October last year, the collaboration aimed to expand Identiv’s smart packaging solutions with NFC-powered authentication, transparency, customer loyalty and brand awareness.

The smart packaging solution attached to the top of the bottles is powered by high-performing NTAG 210u NFC tags.

OTACA Tequila is said to be the first spirit company to fully digitize its product offerings with NFC.

OTACA Tequila CEO and founder Anthony Accetta said: “We have worked hard to create a highly personalized experience for our OTACA Tequila customers.

“Each purchased bottle maps a journey, inviting a digital touchpoint with product provenance and authentication upon every consumer NFC tag tap.

“We’re looking forward to further growth with Identiv, including plans to expand with Anejo.”

Identiv’s NFC solutions offer a full range of tags and form factors that customers and partners in various sectors can use to develop their own NFC products and ecosystems.

When integrated with blockchain technology, the NFC tag improves the validity of the tequila’s origins.

The company said its solutions are ideal for wine, spirits and high-end luxury goods among other products.

Identiv transponder vice-president and general manager Amir Khoshniyati said: “From the proof of concept to pilot and now the upcoming production phase, our collaboration with OTACA has delivered significant results.

“Our NFC tags on OTACA Tequila bottles are propelling global sales by facilitating re-orders while delivering unparalleled insights into consumer habits and behaviors.”

OTACA Tequila has been recently recognized for multiple awards including the 2022 Sip Awards Double Gold, 2021 Cigar and Spirits Magazine World Spirits competition, and 2022 Spirits Business Awards Gold, Tequila and Mezcal Masters category.

Meanwhile, Identiv is recognized for offering the highest quality NFC tags with innovative known designs, global scale, and depth of converting and encoding capabilities.

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