Inks and Coatings Help Beverage Brands Appeal to Consumers

Specialty effects and color-changing inks boost visual impact while supporting recyclability goals

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Inks and coatings play a growing role in how beverage brands communicate identity and sustainability. Suppliers are developing innovative inks and coatings that help packaging stand out on shelves, reduce energy use, and support PET recycling. Market demand for sustainable packaging inks continues to rise alongside the growth of eCommerce.

Why it matters

As consumer demand for sustainable packaging increases and eCommerce drives the need for durable, protective packaging, beverage brands are turning to specialized inks and coatings to differentiate their products, boost visual appeal, and meet environmental goals.

The details

Aluminum manufacturer Ball Corp. offers a range of special effects inks and finishes for beverage cans, including Day Glo inks, Dynamark printing technology, and EYERIS High Definition printing. INX International Ink Co. has unveiled innovations like its Reduced Temperature Cure Ink, which reduces energy use, and its Genesis Washable inks that enable PET recycling. Chromatic Technologies Inc. (CTI) provides color-changing thermochromic inks, glow-in-the-dark inks, and other specialty effects.

  • In May 2026, Market Research Future published a report forecasting the U.S. packaging inks and coatings market to reach $25.7 billion in 2023.
  • Earlier in 2026, CTI received recognition from The Association of Plastic Recyclers for the recyclability of its solvent-borne and UV-curing glow-in-the-dark and thermochromic products.

The players

Ball Corp.

An aluminum manufacturer that offers a range of special effects inks and finishes for beverage cans.

INX International Ink Co.

A supplier that has unveiled innovations like Reduced Temperature Cure Ink and Genesis Washable inks to support sustainability and recycling.

Chromatic Technologies Inc. (CTI)

A provider of color-changing thermochromic inks, glow-in-the-dark inks, and other specialty effects for beverage packaging.

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What they’re saying

“Craft beer drinkers often make purchasing decisions based on packaging design. Our inks help breweries create visually striking cans and labels that grab attention and drive brand loyalty.”

— Renee Schouten, Vice President of Marketing, INX International Ink Co. (Statement)

“APR congratulates Chromatic Technologies, Inc. for taking action to improve the recyclability of their packaging and taking steps to receive APR Design Recognition.”

— Steve Alexander, President and CEO, The Association of Plastic Recyclers (Statement)

What’s next

The packaging inks and coatings market is expected to continue growing, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eCommerce-friendly packaging solutions. Beverage brands will likely continue to invest in specialized inks and coatings to differentiate their products and meet evolving consumer preferences.

The takeaway

Innovative inks and coatings are enabling beverage brands to create visually striking packaging that stands out on shelves, while also supporting sustainability goals like recyclability and reduced environmental impact. As consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging rises, these specialized inks and coatings will play a crucial role in helping brands appeal to conscious consumers.