The technology has been introduced by Vetroplas’ Spanish manufacturing partner Envases. It can also incorporate the use of haptic inks able to provide tactile effects, with parts of a design ‘raised’ above the flat surface of the bottle.

According to Vetroplas, this new process can be used alongside existing offset printing. In-line hot foil stamping is said to further enhances artwork possibilities including the opportunity to offer foil in a range of colours as well as the more conventional silver and gold.

Vetroplas, managing director Simon Dix, said: “The Vetroplas/Envases partnership now offers the world’s first integrated hybrid offset and silkscreen printing technology for aluminium monobloc bottles, making the green appeal of infinitely recyclable aluminium bottles compatible with a truly premium product.”