Digital Printing for Refillable & Reusable Products

The longevity of our planet and the well-being of the environment are at the forefront of many decisions being made today. It has become increasingly clear that the choices we make now directly impact the future.

Simple lifestyle changes, such as switching to refillable deodorant, choosing a reusable water bottle, air-drying clothes instead of using a dryer, or taking shorter showers, are just a few small steps to consider this summer if you’re aiming for a greener way of living.

While these changes are relatively easy to make on a personal level, many companies are also looking for ways to align with sustainable values and use their broader influence to help make the world a better place.

As manufacturers of industrial printing equipment, we have seen several meaningful ways this commitment to sustainability is taking shape. First and foremost, we keep environmental impact in mind when designing the machinery we release. Both digital printing and pad printing help reduce waste and energy consumption and avoid the use of harmful inks. The same cannot be said for methods such as dye sublimation or screen printing.

Once a machine is ordered, customized, and shipped, our partnership with the customer is just getting started. Through our InkcupCare program, we offer ongoing support during the first year of ownership, including diagnostics, remote service, software and firmware updates, and on-site assistance for digital machines. This foundation of support helps ensure that customers can focus on innovation rather than downtime.

As we continue working with customers beyond installation, we gain valuable insight into the creative ways they are using our technology. One of the most exciting and fast-growing trends we’ve observed is the shift toward refillable and reusable vessels. While reusable drinkware might be the most familiar example, this movement extends to products such as candles, cosmetics, and even spirits packaging.

Applications

Candle makers, cosmetics brands, and even spirits producers and distilleries are now using direct-to-object digital printing to give their packaging an elevated appearance and longer life. Their goal is to encourage refilling and repurposing. Some digitally printed gin bottles, for example, are designed so beautifully that customers choose to keep them as keepsakes. These bottles are often reused as vases, home decor, or functional items in cafés or bookstores.

Candle Holders

Burn, enjoy, then reuse. Candle holders can find a second life as homemade candle vessels, pencil cups, art-supply dividers, and countless other creative uses.

Spirit Bottles

Our customer Sterkstokers in Belgium reports that digitally decorated bottles printed with the Helix ONE are often saved as keepsakes. One distiller notes, “A lot of people ask us ‘Can I have the empty bottles please, because I like the design so much!’” These bottles make striking additions to home bars and can even double as trendy flower vases. Learn more about how Inkcups Helix ONE® technology helps Sterkstokers Distill with a Difference.

Corsogin Bottle from Sterkstokers

Perfume Bottles

Over the last decade, perfume packaging has evolved to support refills. Loyal customers can bring the same beautiful bottle back to the store for discounted refills, extending the vessel’s life for years.

Yogurt Containers

Upcycling is on the rise. Premium yogurt brands have embraced containers that protect flavor and invite reuse. Consumers are willing to pay a little more for a container they can keep and repurpose for storage, serving, or décor.

Digital Printers for Refillable Products

The Helix line of cylindrical inkjet printers is an excellent solution for brands looking to make a lasting impression on refillable and reusable products. These printers are built to deliver high-quality, full-color CMYKWW+V images on both straight-walled and tapered cylinders. With a broad application range that fits within the minimum and maximum part diameter specifications, the possibilities are extensive. From wine bottles and gin bottles to candle holders and shot glasses, the Helix line prints directly onto the vessel. This approach eliminates the need for adhesive labels and ensures that your branding becomes an integral part of the product.

Nano Pin Curing Technology

To achieve ideal adhesion, our dedicated samples team works closely with customers to identify the right combination of primer and pre-treatment based on the material of the vessel. This personalized approach ensures the print not only looks exceptional but also holds up through repeated use, dishwashing and handling.

To get started today, contact our team to discuss your business needs.