Packaging Value Chain

Overview

About the Packaging Value Chain program

The MS Packaging Value Chain program from California Polytechnic State University is the undisputed leader in experiential packaging education and technology, providing the global packaging value chain with premiere talent and applied research. Graduates will develop competencies in substantive packaging and related business insights directly applicable in the workplace, with the goal of providing working professionals opportunities to assume leadership roles and advance their careers.

The term packaging value chain refers to the network of interconnected businesses and their value creation processes, covering all stages of suppliers – from the point of origin of a packaging solution and all tiers of customers out to the point of consumption of the product and the ultimate end-of-life of the packaging. As the power of business customers grows with the increasing technology development, information ubiquity and globalization of markets, delivering customer value is becoming increasingly critical. From packaging being regarded merely as a logistical or materials issue, there has been a substantial shift in the value-creating logic of the packaging industry.

As a business function, packaging spans the entire range of a packaged goods company’s activities and brings the holistic agenda to the table. In doing so, it becomes the strategic enabler that helps other functions deliver benefits to the consumer. Strategically considered, packaging incorporates procurement, R&D, marketing, sales, sustainability and plays a role in defining margins and profitability.