TEQAL, a provider of injection moulded rigid plastic packaging to the cosmetics and industrial sectors, prides itself on offering products that are cost-effective, energy-efficient and have less impact on the environment.

According to shareholder and marketing director Sean Kirkham, by focusing solely on the company’s core competencies and manufacturing knowledge, Teqal is best positioned to offer high levels of innovation, quality and competitive pricing.

The company recently made headlines when it clinched a prestigious overseas award. In September last year, the In-Mould Decorating Association (IMDA) announced the winners of the 2023 IMDA Awards Competition at the Plastic Product Decorating Summit in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Entries were received from around the world, showcasing the best in in-mould design and technical achievements in markets ranging from food and beauty packaging to appliance and consumer electronics. But it was Johannesburg-based print service provider (PSP) Ren-Flex that scooped top honours with a win in the Best Use of In-Mould Labelling (IML) category with the Romano Classic Body Cream 470ml and Arthur Ford Body Cream for brand owners Canway Supply Chain Solutions and

AF Brands respectively. Teqal’s own patented IML technology was used in the construction of the jars, and the labels were supplied by Ren-Flex.

With a leakproof design and carefully engineered features, Teqal’s roll-on container is poised to make a significant impact in the personal care packaging industry.”

xceptional capabilities and talent of his team. He emphasises Teqal’s robust market history and the establishment of strong connections and relationships with customers and suppliers. Sean noted that these factors have enabled the company to attract top-notch employees, all possessing a unparalleled work ethic, which has significantly contributed to the success of projects like the one at hand. ‘Without the breadth and depth of Teqal’s highly experienced and passionate team, these innovations would not have been possible,’ he states.

Sean provides insight into the intricacies of this award-winning project, which involved bending labels around a three-dimensional surface – a feat not commonly achievable in IML, which typically adheres to flat surfaces. ‘In this application, the label film is laminated with printed foil and varnished. No static was required in the mould. The label is bent around a radiused base and upper edge, giving the product a borderless look,’ he comments. Since the print is applied on top of the foil, there’s flexibility in providing the option of full or partial coverage. The product is also hot filled. ‘The textured label finish – sort of an orange peel effect – adds to the premium look and feel,’ Sean explains.

To achieve this, Teqal had to modify its machinery and mould to apply the label in a unique way. ‘The result was a groundbreaking industry first, a creative feat that’s unheard of in the injection moulding and IML space,’ Sean remarks.

He describes the product range as a classic design with a contemporary touch. ‘This kind of cosmetic jar design allows brands to differentiate themselves through shape, colour, decoration and transparency.’

Sean elaborates on the challenges faced when incorporating metal into IML, citing the need to overcome static-related issues. ‘Teqal’s in-house modifications to moulds and machines, including the use of vacuum technology, not only secured success in applying metal labels, but also enhanced the stability of the overall production process.’

Building on this success, Teqal has continued to innovate, earning accolades for its cosmetic container products. One notable achievement is its utilisation of IML to create a full-wrap label on jars, providing a unique and seamless appearance. Sean highlights the company’s commitment to sustainability, sharing its ability to use 100% recycled materials in certain products, showcasing its dedication to environmental responsibility.

The jars have become a canvas for brands to express their identity. Teqal’s technology allows for a borderless label, eliminating the visual seams that often accompany traditional labelling methods. Sean shares examples of customer success stories, noting substantial growth attributed to the distinctive full-wrap labels.

Moreover, Teqal has introduced new sizes to its jar range, offering customers more options for their packaging needs. Sean showcases the flexibility of Teqal’s containers, featuring jars made from the company’s own recycled scrap materials, adding another layer to its sustainability initiatives.

Moulding success

In the conversation, Sean unveils an exciting development – a new cap design for Teqal’s cosmetic jars. This innovative cap features a radius with a flat surface and a rounded side, adding a touch of sophistication to the product. ‘The design not only expands the range, but also introduces new possibilities for brand differentiation.’

These factors have enabled Teqal to attract top-notch employees, all possessing a unparalleled work ethic, which has significantly contributed to the success of projects like the one at hand.”

Teqal’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of packaging innovation extends beyond jars. Sean shares details about a roll-on deodorant container, set to launch in the coming months. The container boasts a unique design with three distinct surfaces, demonstrating Teqal’s dedication to providing brands with options beyond traditional packaging norms.

This roll-on container represents Teqal’s foray into a previously unexplored territory, showcasing its ability to blend aesthetics with functionality. ‘With a leak-proof design and carefully engineered features, Teqal’s roll-on container is poised to make a significant impact in the personal care packaging industry,’ he states.

As the company continues to break new ground in packaging and print media, its commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront. The high level of innovation offers a glimpse into Teqal’s journey, highlighting its dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in the ever-evolving world of injection moulding and IML packaging.

Talking about what lies ahead, Sean explains that Teqal is looking at expanding its customer base, turnover and facility in the coming months. ‘Investing in modernising, standardising, sustainability initiatives and growth opportunities are all important for ensuring the company flourishes.’

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