Orora has showcased its new Helio digital can printing technology to around 30 beverage customers and design specialists at its Dandenong manufacturing site on 22 October, marking a major milestone in the company’s ongoing investment in advanced packaging capability.

Attendees included brand owners such as Coca-Cola, Remedy, Garage Beverages, Suntory, Mountain Culture, Brick Lane and Hop Nation, along with design agencies and industry experts. The event provided a first-hand look at how Helio’s direct-to-shape digital printing platform is transforming beverage packaging by removing the design constraints of traditional print methods.

The Helio system, officially commissioned earlier this year, enables high-speed, high-quality decoration directly onto aluminium cans. It allows for faster turnaround times, smaller minimum orders, and unlimited design possibilities, making it ideal for promotional campaigns, new product launches and limited-edition runs across categories such as soft drinks, craft beer, RTDs, sparkling water and kombucha.

According to Orora Cans Executive General Manager Chris Smith, the introduction of Helio marks a step-change in how beverage brands engage consumers:

“Helio allows us to take can decoration to the next level. As primary packaging plays a crucial role in brand storytelling, this technology gives our customers the flexibility to innovate quickly and creatively,” Smith said.

The Victorian Government has supported Orora’s broader expansion at Dandenong, which includes the completion of an $80 million multi-size can line in 2023. Victoria’s Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks praised the investment, saying:

“Orora’s Helio technology is a great example of how local innovation is transforming global industries while supporting skilled jobs and strengthening Victoria’s manufacturing capability.”

The Helio launch forms part of Orora’s wider capacity expansion program, which also includes new can lines at Revesby (NSW) and Rocklea (Qld), collectively worth more than $300 million. These developments ensure Orora can continue meeting growing customer demand for sustainable, infinitely recyclable aluminium packaging across Oceania.