A custom-designed squeezy PET bottle from RPC Superfos is helping the UK's No.1 Hot Pepper Sauce brand achieve greater visibility on shelf.

The new bottle for the Encona 'Taste Explorers' range from Grace Foods UK - which includes favourites such as West Indian Original Hot Pepper Sauce and Thai Mild Sweet Chilli Sauce - is part of a refreshment of the packaging to help the brand stay competitive. Slightly taller and narrower than its predecessor, it holds the same volume as before but is more visible on shelf thanks to a greater label surface.

"Squeezy bottles are ideal if you look for a clean way to dispense sauces," comments Sam Bidgood, brand manager at Grace Foods. "Plastic bottles are easy to use so they are perfect for sauces that consumers enjoy more frequently than others."

Grace Foods sells its products in both glass and plastic packaging. In fact, the success of the Encona range began more than 40 years ago in a now iconic square glass bottle with the Encona brand embossed on the side. This particular brand asset is perfectly reproduced on the squeezy bottle as well.

Overall, Sam Bidgood finds that the cooperation with RPC Superfos on the project has been excellent, including timing and delivery.

"Retailers have given us really positive feedback to our new customised squeezy bottle," he explains. "We offer both glass and plastic bottles for our products to cater for as many customers as possible. Plastic continues to grow in popularity."

He points out that plastic packaging means cost savings, as there are fewer breakages and reduced transportation costs due to lower weight. Also, a change in the pallet configuration means that the storage space can be used more efficiently.