Published: 29th October 2026
Beatson Clark is marking 275 years of history by investing in its future.
Beatson Clark began manufacturing glass containers on its present-day site in Rotherham in 1751, and over the centuries the business has evolved and adapted to changing markets and new technologies.
Among the most significant recent investments are screen printing machines installed in the new decorating plant, innovative air curtains in the glassworks to improve employee health and safety during hot end swabbing operations, and a new Euro palletiser capable of packing onto industrial and Euro pallets.
Beatson Clark’s new decorating plant began operation in August 2024 and is already expanding to meet increasing customer demand. The addition of screen printing equipment means the company can now produce a wide range of decorative effects using organic, ceramic and precious metal inks. Ceramic inks are fused onto the glass at high temperatures, making the print extremely durable, while organic print is a cost-effective option that can be applied in virtually any colour. These investments are a response to the current trend for brands looking to premiumise their packaging using spray and print effects.
Alongside these new services, Beatson Clark is also launching a raft of new container ranges for the growing spirits, homeware and personal care markets that are ideal for premium decoration. Other investments which are less visible to customers but equally important are the new air curtain system and the Euro palletisers.
Beatson Clark is the first glass packaging manufacturer in the UK to install pioneering air curtains to further enhance operator protection during hot end swabbing operations. The innovative equipment removes contaminants from the operator's breathing zone rather than relying on PPE.
Following a successful trial on one production line, the system was rolled out across the entire manufacturing operation and now benefits employees across the hot end operation. Feedback from operators has been overwhelmingly positive. Real-time monitoring has shown the system to be highly effective, reducing airborne particulates in the operator's breathing zone by approximately 95%.
The project’s success has been recognised by British Glass, with the initiative shortlisted for the Health and Safety Action Award. The winners will be announced on 19th November at the Glass Focus Awards ceremony in Sheffield.
Meanwhile, the company is investing more than £3.6 million on four new palletisers over the next 12 months, enabling it to pack both standard UK pallets and slightly smaller Euro pallets. This greater packing and palletising flexibility will expand export opportunities in Europe for Beatson Clark, which works closely with its European sister company Pont Packaging and its wide network of distributors across the globe.
While much has changed since the company first began making glass in 1751, its approach remains the same: investing in innovation, adapting to new market demands and continually improving the service it provides to customers. Celebrating 275 years of manufacturing is an opportunity not only to reflect on the Beatson Clark’s heritage, but also to look ahead to the future of glass packaging.
