Digital Printing vs Offset Printing: A Complete Guide for UK Food Packaging
November 15, 2025
When it comes to custom food packaging — whether pizza boxes, burger cartons, coffee cups, or takeaway bags — the printing method you choose makes a huge difference. The two most common methods are Digital Printing and Offset Printing. Both offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your order size, design, and budget.
This guide from Custom Supplies UK breaks down the differences so you can make an informed decision.
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What Is Digital Printing?
Digital printing transfers your design file directly onto the packaging material using toner or liquid ink. No printing plates are required.
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Fast setup – ideal for small runs and urgent orders.
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Flexible – easy to make design changes or personalise prints (for example, seasonal or name-based packaging).
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Best for short runs – unit cost remains stable even for smaller quantities.
What Is Offset Printing?
Offset printing is a traditional method where your design is first transferred onto plates, then onto a rubber blanket, and finally printed on the packaging material.
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High colour accuracy – excellent for Pantone/spot colours and brand consistency.
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Cost-effective at scale – per-unit cost decreases significantly for larger orders.
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Wide finish options – works with metallic inks, specialty coatings, and multiple substrates.
Digital vs Offset: Key Differences
|
Feature |
Digital Printing |
Offset Printing |
|
Setup Cost & Time |
Minimal setup, quick turnaround. |
Higher setup cost, longer preparation time. |
|
Cost Per Unit |
Consistent for small batches, higher for large runs. |
High initial cost, but much cheaper per unit at scale. |
|
Turnaround |
Faster — great for urgent projects. |
Slower to set up but efficient once running. |
|
Colour Accuracy |
Good, but Pantone spot colours are harder to match. |
Excellent colour fidelity and consistency. |
|
Best Use |
Short runs, personalised or seasonal packaging. |
Large consistent orders with fixed designs. |
Which Printing Method Is Best for Food Packaging?
Food businesses in the UK often have specific needs. Here’s how to decide:
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Small takeaway shops/startups – Digital printing is cost-effective for small runs and frequent design changes.
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Restaurant chains/large businesses – Offset printing reduces cost per unit and ensures consistent branding across all outlets.
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Promotional or seasonal campaigns – Digital printing allows quick adjustments and personalised elements.
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Premium branding – Offset printing offers sharp finishes, exact Pantone matching, and luxury effects like foiling.
Practical Scenarios
|
Scenario |
Best Method |
Why |
|
200–500 pizza boxes for a new menu launch |
Digital |
Low setup cost, fast turnaround. |
|
10,000+ burger cartons with the same design |
Offset |
Economical per unit, consistent colours. |
|
Christmas or limited-edition packaging |
Digital |
Easy to personalise and update designs. |
|
Luxury coffee cups with gold foiling |
Offset |
Supports specialty finishes and Pantone metallics. |
How Custom Supplies UK Helps
At Custom Supplies UK, we don’t just print — we help you choose the right method for your business:
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Consultation – We review your order size, budget, and design needs.
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Both Options Available – Digital for flexibility, Offset for high-volume consistency.
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Sample Proofs – Get a preview of how your packaging will look before full production.
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Quality Control – Ensuring accurate colours, sharp finishes, and food-safe materials.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between digital and offset printing is about more than cost. It’s about speed, quality, flexibility, and consistency. By selecting the right method, your packaging can elevate your food business, reinforce your brand, and leave lasting impressions on customers.
👉 Contact Custom Supplies UK today for expert advice, quotes, and sample proofs for your next packaging project.
