Types of Cardboard Packaging
Cardboard packaging for spirits comes in several formats, each suited to specific needs in terms of protection and presentation.
- Folding Carton: The folding carton is a compact or corrugated cardboard box often used for individual bottles. It is lightweight, easy to assemble, and offers an excellent surface for printing. This type of packaging is ideal for premium spirits requiring a luxurious presentation.
- Gift Boxes: Cardboard gift boxes are designed to hold multiple bottles or bottle + glass sets. They can be equipped with internal dividers or inserts to keep the bottles in place and prevent breakage. Gift boxes offer a large surface area for creative designs and are perfect for gifts or limited editions.
Printing Techniques
Printing on cardboard packaging plays a crucial role in the brand image of spirits. Here are the main printing techniques used:
- Offset: Offset printing is ideal for large quantities, offering superior image quality and precise color reproduction. This technique is often used for folding cartons and luxury gift boxes.
- Inkjet: Inkjet printing is suitable for small runs and personalization. It allows direct printing on the cardboard with great flexibility in terms of design. This is an interesting option for limited editions or personalized products.
- Flexography (Flexo): Flexographic printing allows direct printing on corrugated cardboard, though the print quality is slightly lower than offset. At Sietcam, we use this process for one or two-color printing on the inside of the box.
Board quality
The choice of board quality depends on the desired functionality and appearance of the packaging.
- Folding carton: also called solid board, it is dense and smooth, offering an excellent surface for printing. It is ideal for embellishment: gilding, embossing, etc. Therefore, it is often used for folding cartons and luxury gift boxes. Increasingly, we use the reverse side of the cardboard for exterior printing, as the natural look of the uncoated surface is appreciated.
- Corrugated board : Also called litho-laminating, it is composed of 3 layers, offering superior shock resistance. It is primarily used for transporting large packages. Like folding carton, it is also recyclable and can be made from recycled materials.
Bottles and Types of Spirits
Spirits come in various forms, and each type has its own packaging requirements.
- Whiskey: Whiskey, especially single malt whiskey, is often presented in luxury gift boxes or folding cartons with high-end finishes. Whiskey bottles can be accompanied by glasses in gift boxes, offering a complete experience to the consumer.
- Cognac and Brandy: High-quality cognacs and brandies require packaging that reflects their prestige. Gift boxes with hot stBottles and Types of Spirits
- amping (gilding effect), embossing (relief effect), and metallic printing are commonly used.
- Vodka and Gin: Vodkas and gins, often associated with a modern and sleek image, benefit from minimalist yet elegant cardboard packaging. Folding cartons with offset printing are popular for these spirits.
- Rum: Rum, particularly aged rums, is frequently packaged in corrugated boxes for transport, but also in gift boxes for special editions. The packaging must reflect the authenticity and history of the product.
Conclusion
Cardboard packaging for spirits represents a balanced solution between sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality. By exploring various types of packaging, printing techniques, and types of cardboard, producers can choose the solution that best fits their product and brand. Thanks to its numerous advantages, cardboard packaging is well on its way to becoming the norm in the spirits sector, meeting consumer expectations and contemporary environmental challenges.