Exploring Digital Printing for the Spirits Industry

As a leader in the industrial digital printing space, Inkcups is committed to listening to and learning from the industries we serve. Recently, we attended two major trade shows in the spirits sector: the International Bulk Wine and Spirits Show (IBWSS) and the American Distilling Institute’s Craft Spirits Conference and Vendor Expo (ADI).

These events gave us valuable insights into industry needs and allowed us to showcase our complete solution for digitally decorating glass. More and more companies are looking for cutting-edge ways to produce short-run, high-quality bottle designs. Perfect for specialty events, limited editions, and personalized pieces, Inkcups cylindrical inkjet printers help major spirits brands decorate bottles quickly, flexibly, and with exceptional detail.

Frequently Asked Question from Spirits Brands

What benefits does digital printing offer for decorating bottles?

Digital printing allows for short-run, on-demand decoration with full-color, photo-quality graphics. It gives brands the flexibility to respond quickly to trends, seasonal events, or personalized campaigns without the cost or lead time of traditional methods. It also helps maintain in-house operations and reduces waste. Shrink sleeves are often over or under ordered, leaving businesses either scrambling to meet demand or stuck with substantial excess.

We currently utilize shrink sleeves. How does your technology fit alongside existing solutions?

Shrink sleeves remain ideal for high-volume runs. Our cylindrical inkjet printers are not meant to replace large-scale operations but to enhance them. By adding digital printing to your workflow, you can capture new opportunities such as custom labeling, event-specific editions, and corporate gifting. The demand for personalized products continues to grow in 2025, and digital printing is the most efficient way to meet it.

What are companies in the spirits industry currently using your technology for?

We see many brands using the Double Helix® printer for specialty runs. These range from holiday-themed bottles (Halloween, Cinco de Mayo, etc.) to limited releases for sporting events, festivals, or exclusive brand collaborations. Corporate gifting and personalized editions are also increasingly popular use cases.

I don’t want to disrupt production. Can I print on filled bottles?

Yes! In February of this year, Inkcups introduced Nano Pin Curing on the Helix® line of cylindrical inkjet printers. This technology enables direct printing on transparent vessels such as glassware, wine bottles, clear plastic bottles, candle holders, and drinkware without the need for “stuffing.”

Traditionally, operators had to fill bottles with a UV-blocking substance (such as pellets or a foxtail) to prevent reflective light from damaging printheads. Nano Pin Curing eliminates this step, reducing production time and maintaining sterility inside the bottle. The result is a faster, cleaner, and more efficient printing process.

Final Thoughts

Digital printing is no longer just an alternative, it is a powerful tool for spirits brands looking to differentiate through customization, speed, and flexibility. From small-batch distilleries to global names, the ability to quickly decorate bottles for special events or personalized promotions gives companies an undeniable competitive edge.

See it for yourself

Experience our digital inkjet solutions live at PRINTING United 2025 in Orlando, Florida. Visit Inkcups at booth #1530 to see the Helix® with patented technology, Nano Pin Curing in action, decorating transparent water bottles. This is the perfect chance to explore our technology up close and discover how it can elevate your production.

Free Expo Pass on Inkcups: https://prue2025.nvytes.co/inviteprue2025/290401.html

If you can’t make it to Orlando, connect with your local sales representative to schedule a visit at our headquarters. You can even send samples in advance to watch your own products come to life with digital printing, right before your eyes.