Technology traditionally used in the chocolate industry has been adapted by Ardagh’s Design Team to create differentiation through high definition glass embossing, adding textures and feature enhancement to a standard never seen before in glass packaging.
Unlike regular, two-dimensional embossing, the new process known as Sculptured Embossing allows glass sculpting to be achieved on multiple levels, creating intricate, lifelike detail, depth and dimension, enabling the premiumisation of glass bottles and jars.
The technology has recently been used to replicate different texture effects including wooden planking and citrus peel, as well as to enhance the definition of scripted text and other branding icons.
Carsten Berkau, OEG Design Manager - Glass Europe, said: “The technology has brought benefits in terms of both design aesthetic and quality improvement, which has made it a real win with our customers.
“Following its success and positive customer feedback, we have invested in two in-house design licenses for the Sculptured Embossing software, which are available to our glass customers worldwide.”
In the spirit sector, the technology has been used for Whyte and Mackay’s Claymore Whisky bottle. A more premium look and feel has been achieved by replicating the crest artwork on the label with an intricately embossed crest on the back of the bottle. The new design features embossing across five different depths to add definition to the swords, scrolling, rose petals and banner.
The technology has also been used in the food sector to add texture and expression to glass packaging in a way that is incredibly lifelike. A recent example is the new Duerr’s Citrus Jar, which is sculpted to look like a citrus fruit with its peel effect.
Duerr’s Managing Director, Mark Duerr said: “The Ardagh design team applied their expertise and embraced new technology to find a balance between meeting the aesthetic of the design brief with the practicalities of volume production.”
