Cincinnati’s Phototype opens up state-of-the-art pilot printing line for craft brewers seeking printed cans

Phototype is a fourth-generation, family-owned graphic solutions provider for the consumer packaged goods industry. The Cincinnati-based company offers separations, plating and print proofing for direct print on cans. In 2017, at the request of one of its clients (a global beverage manufacturer), Phototype installed an eight-color proofing press and platemaking equipment to help drive inconsistencies out of its product lines. The company then sought out some of the top talent in the industry to staff and run it. Within the year, Phototype established itself as a preferred vendor for plates and pilot cans. Today, they offer a complete line of services, from design to press, to the craft brewing industry.

“In January 2018, Phototype exhibited at the Ohio Craft Brewers Conference, where we learned first-hand of the challenges facing small regional brewers when investing in a can distribution strategy — long lead times, disappointing or unexpected results and a proofing process that lacked the flexibility to optimize color and graphics,” explained Mike Medina, director of marketing for Phototype. “Our process resonated with the breweries and, over the course of the event, we quickly became known as ‘the can guys’ because we can truly help bring their beer to market faster and more accurately than going straight into production.”

Phototype PhotoFinish cans 2 — Phototype will help you color match cans to your satisfaction.

Phototype’s “Can Lab” offers the unique ability to come in and dial-in your graphics and ensure your production runs go as smoothly and accurately as possible. Here are some of Phototype’s capabilities: