Retail expert to discuss the future of interactive packaging

Professor Cathy Barnes, who is also Director of the University's Faraday Centre for Retail Excellence, will discuss how in years to come consumers will interact with packaging very differently to today.

The free lecture, entitled 'Glimpsing the future of interactive packaging', will take place at the University's Rose Bowl on Thursday 7 February, from 5.30pm-7pm.

Professor Barnes commented: "I am delighted to be delivering this talk at Leeds Met. It is a fascinating subject which will be of interest to University staff, students and the wider public as it is a topic which will affect us all and how we behave as consumers in the not so distant future. Currently we see packaging as the thing that keeps our food fresh. In future it could become the portal to a digital world."

Having undertaken research that has put her on a journey from novel ideation techniques such as biomimetics - using nature to innovate, to sensory design, Dr Barnes is particularly interested in how we perceive the world through touch and what this means to why we buy products.

She has worked with a range of clients wishing to improve the consumer appeal of their retail packaging, products and experiences.

The session will end with an opportunity to ask questions. The event is free, but places are available on a first come, first served basis. To confirm you place email guestspeaker@leedsmet.ac.uk.