O-I Launches Glass Decoration With Variable Data Printing
O-I has become the first glass manufacturer to produce decorated glass bottles using variable data printing. O-I : Expressions Signature provides a more complex level of personalisation than ever on glass packaging.
The range offers brand owners the opportunity to choose from several variations during the same print run including:
Changing a graphic on the bottle
Changing the colours within the graphic design
Changing a name or a word on the bottle
Using different customized tactile digitally printed effects with O-I : Expressions Relief
Serialization of the bottles, by applying a sequential number for limited editions or an individual fixed code, e.g. QR or 2D datamatrix code unlocking an online experience.
O-I has collaborated with its technology partners to overcome a range of technical challenges including ensuring the accuracy of reading the customer’s data, minimising time delay in the print cycle, inspecting variably printed bottles and data protection.
Melianthe Leeman, Global Marketing Director, Wines and Spirits at O-I, “This is an exciting time to be in glass manufacture as the industry is developing more attractive and sustainable packaging at speed. We see great opportunities for premium and luxury special editions but also for global brands who can make one run of a common bottle shape then create culturally appropriate designs for different markets within the same print run.”
Sample bottles distributed at PLD London and the forthcoming Luxepack Monaco feature prints of six different cities – London, Paris, Milano, Barcelona, New York and Tokyo. Each printed in different colours, with the city name ‘embossed’ vertically using transparent relief printing and unique QR codes taking users to the O-I:Expressions website.
