The once plain white tubes have been replaced by those with color graphics, vignettes, graduations, bold colors, and nontraditional shapes and sizes. The revolution is due to advances in printing technology. Prior to filling, the M-Deco process transfers images as needed, according to the company. Placing more emphasis on graphics does put more responsibility on tube engineers and designers. The next generation of tubes is already appearing on shelves.
Graphics are sharper thanks to digital prepress technology.
The quality of four-color graphics mirrors that of photographic quality. Even spot graphics are more precise, again thanks to digital software. All told, graphics are better than ever. The same is true for tubes since the number of options available has increased from year to year. Tube manufacturers are consolidating, but the level of innovation continues to rise.