Heineken uses PET Engineering technology for new bottles

Heineken Russia has launched two new PET beer bottle designs created using PET Engineering’s interchangeable insert system.

The new shapes – which have been used for brands Tri Medvedya, Okhota and Okckoe – can be easily modified using the interchangeable inserts, according to PET Engineering.

Italy-based PET Engineering, which was acquired by Sidel last year, said this means it is always possible to apply new decorations, to move and resize the label area and to alter the capacity of bottles.

PET Engineering supplied Heineken with 115 sets of molds – each set including one mold and two inserts – for seven Russian plants. The molds were equipped with lube-free composite components and treated for greater durability with the application of a ceramic coating.

Sidel Group acquired PET Engineering last October as part of plans to expand its packaging offering, especially in areas such as water, soft drinks, liquid dairy products and beer.

Sidel CEO Sam Strömerstén, who will retire from his role this summer, told FoodBev that the acquisition will enable the company to channel to market a wider set of competences when it comes to design aspects, therefore addressing a broader spectrum of customer needs.

In its first-quarter results published last month, Heineken recorded double-digit volume growth in Russia, mainly driven by its premium portfolio and the inclusion of licensed brands Miller Genuine Draft and Staropramen.