Turning Products into Data: Bringing True Visibility to the Last Mile

This panel discussion from Manifest 2026 explores how digital identifiers, smart packaging and connected data ecosystems are revolutionizing last mile delivery.
Feb. 19, 2026

Key Highlights

  • Digital identifiers and smart packaging enable real-time tracking and condition monitoring of products during last mile delivery.
  • Brands are leveraging connected data ecosystems to build transparency, traceability and consumer trust.
  • Item-level insights help ensure product quality, such as preventing melting or spoilage, through temperature and condition monitoring.
  • Industry leaders share strategies for integrating technology into supply chain operations to improve efficiency and accountability.
  • The session underscores the importance of turning physical products into sources of intelligence for better decision-making.

Whether it’s ensuring a chocolate bar doesn’t melt or the ingredients for your favorite burrito bowl arrive perfectly fresh, the last mile is where visibility meets reality. This panel session from Manifest 2026 brought together leaders from Mars Snacking, Chipotle and Avery Dennison to explore how digital identifiers, smart packaging and connected data ecosystems are turning every product into a source of intelligence.

Learn how brands build traceability and trust through item-level insights, temperature monitoring and real-time condition tracking—transforming goods into living data points.

The panel includes:

  • Debrup Jana, Regional DCOM Supply Chain Manager, Mars Snacking
  • Mike Shaverin, Global DCom Supply Chain Director, Mars Snacking
  • Julie Vargas, VP & GM, Identification Solutions, Avery Dennison Corporation
  • Dirk Martin, Vice President of Global Logistics, Trident Seafoods
  • Robert Schoenberger, VP of Content Strategy, Manufacturing & Engineering Group, EndeavorB2B (Moderator)

About the Author

Tyler Fussner
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Tyler Fussner

Managing Editor - Community Manager | Supply Chain Connect

Tyler Fussner is Managing Editor - Community Manager at Supply Chain Connect, part of the Design & Engineering Group at Endeavor Business Media.

Previously, Fussner served as the Associate Editor for Fleet Maintenance magazine. As part of Endeavor's Commercial Vehicle Group, his work has been published in FleetOwner magazine, as well as Bulk Transporter, Refrigerated Transporter, and Trailer-Body Builders.

Fussner's May 2022 print feature 'The dawn of hydrogen trucks' was named the best single technology article in B2B by the judges of the 2022 Folio: Eddie and Ozzie Awards. Fussner was also awarded Silver in the Technical Article category for the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) 2021 Tabbie Awards.

Fussner previously served as Assistant Editor for Endeavor's Transportation Group on the PTEN, Professional Distributor, and VehicleServicePros.com brands.

Fussner studied professional writing and publishing at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He has experience in shop operations, is a Michelin Certified Tire Technician, and a Michelin Certified Tire Salesperson.

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