Strengthening R&D Strategy Through Patent Intelligence in Sustainable Packaging

Client Background
The client is a global packaging solutions company specializing in next-generation biodegradable and smart packaging technologies. With operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, its dedicated R&D centers drive material science innovation and support the company’s long-term sustainability strategy.
Client’s Challenge
The client's R&D division needed clarity on where innovation momentum was accelerating in sustainable packaging. Specifically, they were looking to assess how their internal development pipeline compared to that of global competitors and startups working on biodegradable polymers, responsive materials, and sensor-integrated packaging. Without comprehensive visibility into competitive patent activity and technology maturity, the team risked misaligned investments and limited foresight in IP strategy. They approached Mordor Intelligence to conduct an in-depth patent and innovation landscape analysis that could directly inform their R&D decisions.
How Mordor Intelligence Helped
- Mapped Innovation Across Key Technology Areas: We tracked global patent filings in biodegradable polymer blends, moisture-responsive packaging, and embedded sensor technologies to highlight emerging areas of focus.
- Profiled Innovation Leaders and Collaboration Networks: The study categorized top assignees across corporate, academic, and joint ventures, identifying geographic clusters of activity and innovation leadership patterns.
- Assessed Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): Expert interviews with material scientists and procurement stakeholders helped us estimate TRL for leading solutions and assess their commercial readiness.
- Delivered Dynamic Innovation Dashboards: Insights were presented through a monthly-updated dashboard delivered over three quarters, allowing the client to monitor shifts in competitive activity and adjust strategy accordingly.
Key Findings
- Sensor-integrated packaging showed increasing patent momentum but remained fragmented in ownership.
- Several academic-corporate collaborations were moving biodegradable materials into TRL 7 and above.
- The client’s internal roadmap aligned with global trends but lacked IP coverage in specific moisture-triggered packaging formats.
Impact Created
- Revealed White Space Opportunities: The client discovered underexplored areas in sensor-integrated packaging where they could pursue targeted innovation and potential patent filings.
- Informed IP and Legal Strategy: Patent overlap and freedom-to-operate risks were flagged early, helping the client refine their IP positioning in parallel with product development.
- Validated Internal Investment Priorities: With improved visibility into competitor activity and TRL progress, the R&D team strengthened business cases for two maturing platforms and secured continued funding.
Our Industry Coverage
Mordor Intelligence supports innovation-focused clients across industries with tailored research solutions. Our capabilities include:
- Technology Scouting
- Patent Analysis
- Opportunity Assessment
- Feasibility Analysis
- Surveys, FGDs, and Primary Research Fieldwork
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