Embossing and Shaping
The use of embossing and shaping are innovative engineering techniques that have been adopted by leading brands such as Stella Artois and Heineken. The processes provide a combination of visual and tactile effects, creating structure on specific areas of the can surface and are effective ways of adding extra shelf appeal to consumers. The advantage of embossing is to make use of the reflective nature of the metal by subtle changes in the shape of the can wall. Embossing is also useful for differentiation of product ranges.
For real on-shelf impact and clear visual differntiation technology can shape cans. Using blowforming and moulds, brands can benefit from custom shaped cans that deliver many promotional opportunities.
Widget Technology
Widgets enable drinkers to enjoy the taste and the appearance of draught beer from a can. When the can is opened, the widget introduces nitrogen to produce a firm head similar to draught beer. The technology has been further developed so that it can be used with other products such as Iced Coffee or a foaming milk products. |
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Thermochromic Ink
Thermo chromic ink allow the can to communicate with customers and tell them whether the contents are at the optimal temperature for drinking, or it needs to stay in the fridge a while longer. This technology has been introduced into the UK market with Coors Fine Light Ale
Coloured UV Inks
The latest printing technology is being used to add inks that glow under UV lights to cans. This development is perfect for brands looking to attract young, style-conscious consumers and build a distinctive niche position in the market place. UV ink technology has already proved extremely popular for the on-trade in pubs and clubs and for the new breed of energy drinks.
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Tactile Finishes
Tactile finishes are developed using an overvarnish to create a 'wet look'. This finish changes both the look and feel of the can when it is handled.
Matt & Soft Touch Overvarnish
These two varnishing techniques provide a simple and effective way to achieve differentiation and enhance brand image. The impressive finishes also help to build affinitiy with the consumer by adding texture and feel to the surface of the can.
Aseptic Packaging
Aseptic packaging has offered opportunities for getting new products and ingredients into packaging formats and cans are no exception. Products, cans, ends and additives can be sterilized on line without subjecting the inregdients to excessively high temperatures.
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Printed Ends
The use of printed ends is a highly visual way of communicating with the consumer using a logo, a message or instruction. The technique is particularly useful for short runs where the technique can add value where other decorative techniques might be a cost prohibitive.
Embossed Ends
To help communicate with the consumer it is also possible to emboss text or a symbol onto a can end which can compliment a similar decoration used elsewhere on the can.
Incised ends
Incising is similar to embossing, but the text or symbol is etched into the surface of the end. This technology is very popular amongst customers looking for an effective way to run promotions that enhance the brand image |
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Tabs
Under tan printing even more precise incised tabs and laser engraved tabs offer very reliable and easily identifiable numbers, letters and designs on tabs promoting prizes and products. The tabs can be used as a secure proof of purchase as well as an effective collectable or instant win mechanism.
Printing Quality
The industry has been conscious for sometime to improve the quality of printing on metal. Photographic print quality is the aim for the can making industry and the current state of the art is High Definition Printing.
Coloured Ends And Tabs
Coloured ends and tabs can be used in a number of ways for example to create a 'total effect' in one colour. This gives an integrated design and a quality appearance to the can. |
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Laser Etchnig
Laser etching of a can ends allows customers to etch away the colour to create images or symbols underneath the tab.
Full Aperture Ends
For non-drink items, full aperture ends can be used to great effect. |
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