“Matt & Mirror” design has dynamic impact on metal can branding

30 Mar 2018 --- Ardagh group celebrates the recognition of its world-first decoration technique, “Matte and Mirror Impact,” which contributed to the Espresso Monster Coffee Can nabbing first place, in the Decorative/Specialty category, at the Euro CanTech awards. WorldPackagingOnline spoke to the team about the new technique which combines matte and glossy textures and how it appeals to customers and enhances branding.

“‘Matte & Mirror Impact,’ combines the trending combination of matte and glossy surfaces. A new ink compound is responsible for creating an eye-catching beverage packaging. The new finishing comprises a special admixture that can be used with any printable color and creates matte effects on the otherwise glossy can surface,“ says Johanna Gasson, Communications Manager at Ardagh group.

“During the drying process in can production, the blend creates a surface structure that reflects light differently, thus producing a matte appearance. Compared to matte-only finishing’s, where the matte effect is within the over varnish, the new solution creates a multi-faceted surface through a specialty ink.”

She expands on how the matte design packaging market is expanding, and although it is easier to achieve on cardboard, it is harder to replicate on metal cans. This is especially salient when customers want the matte in combination with glossy elements. 

“‘Matte & Mirror Impact’ provides an appealing design option, especially for brands who want to create value through their packaging design. The new finishing helps customers to upgrade brand communication. The alternating matte and glossy areas allow specific design elements, such as logos, promotional messages or brand icons, to be easily and effectively highlighted. As a result, the outstanding can design attracts customers’ attention at the point of sale. 

“The design capitalizes on the popular trend of varying packaging surfaces, while also serving as a vital addition to Ardagh Group’s portfolio of powerful visual differentiators,” says Gasson.

Finally, Gasson describes Ardagh group as leaders in the metal and glass packaging solution market, with a strong reputation for innovation, “; pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, pioneering new production methods, new design techniques and new ways to recycle and save energy.”

By Laxmi Haigh