Orora’s can manufacturing facility at Dandenong has taken another significant step forward with the first cans to be decorated on site from its new high-speed digital print solution, Helio.

Representing a major innovation for the beverage packaging market across Oceania, Helio utilises direct-to-shape digital printing technology, unlocking endless possibilities in colour and texture for unique can design and decoration.

Eliminating the need for long lead production times associated with traditional can decoration and printing methods, customers will benefit from quicker turn-around times, as well as smaller minimum quantities, ideal for promotional campaigns, new product launches and special events.

Following successful implementation and commissioning of the technology on-site at Dandenong, the print solution is now operational and producing custom decoration solutions for customers across categories including carbonated soft drinks, craft beer, Ready-To-Drink alcohol (RTDs), sparkling water and kombucha.

Orora Cans Executive General Manager Chris Smith said the introduction of Helio significantly enhances Orora’s offering to customers, and will play a critical role in transforming how beverage brands connect with consumers at the point of purchase.

“As a leading can manufacturer, our role has always been to support our customers and their brands in meeting the needs and interests of their consumers. Helio allows us to take this even further as primary packaging plays an important part of the marketing mix, with compelling decoration influencing the product purchase decision.”

“We’re excited to be offering this new high-speed digital printing solution out of our Dandenong cans manufacturing facility, to service customers across the Oceania region,” Mr Smith said.

The introduction of Helio follows the installation of an $80m multi-size can line at Dandenong which was completed in June 2023, with support from the Victoria Government. This expansion has helped create skilled jobs in the region, contributing to Victoria’s reputation as a key location for manufacturing innovation.

Victoria’s Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks visited the Orora Cans Dandenong site to celebrate the first the cans to be decorated using Helio.

Minister Brooks said: “Victoria is leading the way in advanced manufacturing, and Orora’s Helio technology is a great example of how local innovation is transforming global industries.”

“This investment is not only delivering cutting-edge packaging solutions but also supporting skilled jobs and strengthening our state’s manufacturing capability.”

In support of the benefits of the Helio technology, Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams said: “It’s fantastic to see advanced manufacturing thriving in Dandenong, with Orora’s new technology creating local jobs and driving innovation in the heart of our community.”

In addition to the developments at Dandenong, Orora has also recently completed the installation of a new $114m multi-size can line at its Revesby manufacturing facility in NSW, and construction is underway to install a new $135m classic size can line at its Rocklea manufacturing facility in Qld. These projects form part of a comprehensive capacity expansion program to meet customer supply requirements over the coming years, as the aluminium can format has become an increasingly popular beverage packaging format amongst consumers.

“These investments will ensure Orora Cans is well positioned to meet the needs of our customers over the next five years and beyond. Cans are a terrific, highly sustainable packaging option, convenient for many occasions. Importantly, aluminium is an infinitely recyclable material, making cans an even more compelling choice for existing and new beverage offers,” Mr Smith said.