Tableware specialists Utopia has added of a state-of-the-art Kammann printing machine and launched a custom-built production facility that it said will “change the face of branding and personalisation for the whole industry”.

According to the company, existing methods for printing on glassware are limited by the technologies employed. 

Colours are also restricted and it’s only possible to print on even surfaces and to print on toughened glass means very large volume production runs from manufacturers. 

By leveraging digital and screen-printing techniques the company said it can now achieve an “infinite choice” of decorative options for glassware branding – even on toughened glassware. 

The company’s new machine, which is the largest in Europe, brings huge digital and screen-printing advances.

It uses both full-colour CMYK printing and a four-station screen print, the size of the print area has increased considerably from what is currently possible to give a much greater flexibility for design.

Digital methods mean that decal quality images can be achieved, including tonal work. 

“This machine will revolutionise decorative printing. It is the future,” said Josh Rammell, marketing manager at Utopia. “We can decorate around corners and on embossed and debossed surfaces. There are no boundaries. The client will be able to get what they truly want, with no compromise.”

According to Rammell, branded glassware is one of the most visible and important ways to promote the brewery’s brand.

He said: “ It is a distinctive way to showcase the brand offering and create an ‘in group’ of fans and customers of the drink.

“With superior decorating techniques new styles and approaches can be taken to bring uniqueness to the serve through the product and the glass. After all it is the packaging for the product, the first taste is always with you eyes.”

Working with breweries, Rammell has also observed a number of key trends being demanded by the consumer.

He explained: “There is a steady move towards differentiation, whereas it was usually to conform to the set shapes of Conical, Tulips and Nonics in glass now there is an expansion as brewers realise that there are so many options.

“This is the same for decoration, whereas it was set around the same places for designs in the past now with enhanced forms of decoration brewers and businesses are looking at how to evolve their brands.”
According to Rammell, other demands on the company are for stemmed beer glasses, especially in the two third volumes, as well as shorter profile glasses, too.