Decorated glassware can look good and take punishment

Utopia’s glassware decoration technique is up to the Covid-19 challenge

Hygiene and social distancing are the main measures impacting on the hospitality and branded glassware sector as it moves forward in the Covid-19 world. Effective washing of glassware has always been important, no-one likes getting a glass with lipstick stains, or old garnish stuck to it, but now there is the added hidden fear factor – has the glassware been washed rigorously enough to destroy the virus.

There has been an increase in the popularity of branded glassware to promote both specific drinks and venues. It’s constantly on view and can add to the theme or image of a bar. However, one problem with traditionally decorated glassware is the logo, brand name or pattern can quickly look tatty or wear off completely with frequent washing in a commercial glasswasher. What’s needed is glassware decoration that can take the punishment of a busy bar environment. It doesn’t look good if it’s faded or chipped.

Last year Utopia introduced its state-of-the-art Kammann printing machine and custom-built production facility, specialising in exceptionally hardwearing custom printed glassware. Under the umbrella of Utopia by You, Utopia offers a full design service for bespoke decoration. The company’s experienced design team uses 3D modelling to adjust the decoration for the ideal look and colour matching before production.

The technique used by the Kammann machine offers an unlimited number of colours of print and a durable end product that’s glasswasher safe at higher temperatures and up to 1000 washes.  It can be applied to embossed, debossed, recessed and curved surfaces and even on toughened glassware.  It also offers a much large print area than has previously been possible

Using the latest digital and screen-printing techniques Utopia can now achieve an amazing choice of decorative options for glassware branding. Utopia’s Kammann printing machine enables this flexibility using both full-colour CMYK printing and a four-station screen print.  It’s believed to be the largest machine of its type in Europe. Digital methods mean that decal quality images can be achieved, including tonal work and full wrap around design.