The challenges facing the beverage industry are growing. Competitive pressures, traceability and new coding & marking standards are calling for ingenious, carefully thought-out solutions. The GS1 Sunrise initiative is putting the spotlight on 2D codes, which will carry significantly more information than conventional barcodes. The updated standards aim to ensure that by the end of 2027, 2D codes can be used alongside conventional 1D barcodes (such as EAN/UPC) at retail points of sale worldwide. Those who make the switch early will be in the best position to secure their processes and reap efficiency benefits.
At the drinktec 2025 exhibition, LEIBINGER will be demonstrating how this transition can be successfully implemented today on all common packaging materials and under real production conditions. The company’s system portfolio is successfully meeting the industry’s expectations – and can reliably mark glass, aluminium, plastics, cardboard and stainless steel. Even in high humidity, with frequent material changes and fast lines, LEIBINGER printers deliver accurate, stable results. Leading companies in the beverage industry are already using this technology, as are medium-sized bottlers for whom easy integration and economical operation are key.
The keg trend well under control
Achieving a balance between adhesion and residue-free removal is decisive in reusable logistics. And traceability suffers if the ink does not adhere sufficiently. If it cannot be removed in its entirety, it interferes with the recycling process. This requirement is proving particularly critical for kegs. Special LEIBINGER inks are available to address this specific issue. The ink adheres to the keg for exactly as long as it should – throughout its entire service life in circulation. As soon as the kegs are returned to the bottler and the reuse process begins, the markings can be removed effortlessly and without residue at precisely the right moment.
Consistent, stable performance
In the beverage industry, high cycle rates come up against harsh conditions. Moisture, intense cleaning cycles and changing temperatures place high demands on the technology. LEIBINGER provides printing systems that deliver consistently accurate results on all commonly used materials – from glass and PET to kegs and cardboard-based packaging such as Tetra Pak. The industry’s expectations are clear: the equipment has to work without fail. And LEIBINGER printers are designed to do exactly that.
Seamless integration into digital production
Integration into existing ERP, MES and EMS systems is guaranteed via the available API interface. A convenient plug-in is also available for integration with SAP. Central remote monitoring of the marking systems reduces the workload for operating personnel, ensures process transparency and increases production efficiency.
Reduced effort, lower operating costs
The IQJET operates for five years without requiring any maintenance. Thanks to LEIBINGER’s unique, world-renowned sealing system, the print heads do not need to be cleaned before start-up. Cartridges can be changed during operation without interrupting printing. This all reduces costs while minimising downtime. Thanks to intelligent technology, the CIJ printer is one of the most economical systems on the market. It consumes 50% less solvent than conventional CIJ printers, requires less energy and is ready for use at any time. This saves time and supports companies who are seeking to consistently combine efficiency and sustainability.
In-house ink expertise
In the lab at LEININGER’s headquarters in Tuttlingen, Germany, customised formulations are developed to meet a wide range of requirements. Coloured ink variants round out the product portfolio. In-house ink development and production ensure outstanding flexibility, high quality and fast availability.
GS1 Sunrise – beyond ready, fully engaged
By the end of 2027, it will be possible to use 2D codes in retail worldwide. In addition to product features, 2D codes can be used to display additional information such as expiry dates, batch markings or further content. As a result of the changeover, many companies are facing considerable technical and organisational adjustments. LEIBINGER has been active for several years in international and national GS1 committees dealing with the changeover to 2D codes at the point of sale. LEIBINGER systems process variable data in real time and generate stable, easily readable codes.
Experience LEIBINGER at drinktec
Many companies in the beverage industry – from international corporations to regional bottling plants – swear by LEIBINGER systems. They especially appreciate the high system availability, which significantly contributes to efficient production line processes. Radenska, a bottler of Pepsi products and manufacturer of the well-known mineral water in the Adriatic region, confirms: “LEIBINGER printers have significantly reduced downtime and increased the productivity of our bottling lines.” Anyone who would like to see how this works in practice should check out the LEIBINGER stand C2-328 at drinktec from 15 to 19 September 2025. The specialists from Tuttlingen will be there to show how future-proof coding & marking works. Specific requirements can be discussed in detail during a personal consultation.
Visitors can also look forward to a personalised giveaway and an opportunity to win a weekend experience for two at Europapark Rust. Simply find the hidden code on the website (it will be displayed during the trade fair), fill out the entry card at the stand and you’ll be entered into the prize draw! For many reasons, it’s well worth a visit.