Inuru

Inuru GmbH, a German company with Polish roots, is positioned at the intersection of printed electronics and packaging, focusing on the production of affordable organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The company was founded in Berlin in 2016 by Marcin Ratajczak (CEO) and Patrick Barkowski (CTO), who have known each other since high school. Their journey began with an idea conceived in a Berlin sushi restaurant, inspired by the desire to create dynamic, moving images on everyday surfaces, similar to those in the Harry Potter films.

The core of Inuru's business is a patented technology that enables the printing of paper-thin, self-powered OLEDs directly onto various surfaces. This digital printing process significantly reduces the historically high manufacturing costs associated with OLEDs, making the technology accessible for mass-market applications. The company's primary product is its Electric Luminous Film (ELF), an ultra-thin, waterproof, and shockproof label that integrates this OLED technology. These films can be activated by touch, motion sensors, or even sound, transforming static packaging and labels into interactive experiences. In March 2024, Inuru inaugurated its "Dragon Factory" in Wildau, a highly automated production line for inkjet printing of OLEDs, which is expected to lower manufacturing costs by approximately 90%.

Inuru's business model involves collaborating with companies to integrate its technology into their product portfolios. The company serves clients across several sectors, most notably marketing, pharmaceuticals, and entertainment. Early high-profile projects with brands like Coca-Cola, for a Star Wars campaign in 2019, and Cattier Champagne demonstrated the technology's potential for enhancing brand presence. In the pharmaceutical sector, Inuru's smart labels are designed to improve medication adherence by providing light signals for expiration dates or dosage reminders, addressing a significant issue in healthcare. The entertainment sector is another focus, with applications in products like board games. Revenue is generated through these partnerships and the sale of their specialized OLED products. The company has raised significant capital to scale its operations, including a €2.3 million Series A in 2020 and a $10 million round in 2023 from investors such as Aper Ventures, Adamed Technology, and ARIA.

Keywords: printed OLEDs, smart packaging, interactive labels, surface lighting, medication adherence, printed electronics, sustainable packaging, OLED manufacturing, interactive advertising, lighting technology