The Easy-Open-End (EOE) segment in PPG’s Packaging Coatings business focuses on something so familiar that most of us hardly think about it—a small but essential part of the beverage can. Yet behind this seemingly simple component is a global team dedicated to predicting future needs and shaping the way we enjoy our favorite drinks all around the world. Join Viktoria (Viki) Tager, our global strategic market manager, Easy-Open-Ends, as she pulls back the curtain on the complexities, innovative procedures, and ambitious plans driving the future of can ends.
Technical at a Core
Viki Tager stepped into her current role at PPG in 2023, but she is no stranger to the world of coatings. She brings with her 18 years of experience in paints and coatings, and a natural inclination toward the technical. Prior to Packaging Coatings, she served as a color platform team lead in the Automotive Refinish business.
"I have a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, specializing in paint development and a master’s degree in polymer science. I’ve worked with various technologies, which has given me a good understanding of paints."
As Packaging Coatings’ global strategic market manager for the EOE segment, Viki's role involves building strategies from multiple perspectives.
"What I do is incredibly diverse. I get to interact with global companies and major beverage brands, which is a unique experience."
Together with her team, Viki is shaping the future of the EOE segment, envisioning what it will look like in 10 to 15 years. Will it still involve coating? If so, what kind? Will the can opening still have the same functionality? These are just some of the questions Viki’s team considers, all while aligning their vision with the needs and goals of their customers—including leading coil coaters, can manufacturers and beverage brands—and ensuring they deliver meaningful value.
Easy Opening, Complex Production
Viki's segment focuses on the top of a beverage can—a small yet critical component. From a manufacturing standpoint, it is different from the rest of the can. It also plays a crucial role in providing stability to the structure as a whole.
Without our coatings, you couldn’t make the end. First, we enable the process of fast application and forming of the end. Second, we protect the drink. Third, we protect the aluminum from corrosion.
The production process for the can body and the end differs greatly. For the end, flat sheet metal is coated first, and then the end is stamped on it. This stamping process is incredibly fast and requires precise coordination.
The EOE team must be able to anticipate the future needs of both its customers and end users, with approval cycles often taking 2–3 years. Viki likens this to gazing into a crystal ball.
"Whatever technology we develop needs to meet the criteria for 10 years from now, which is why it’s important we monitor industry trends and maintain close relationships with customers. They are always asking us when our next coating will be ready.”
One trend that has been easy to predict is the growing importance of sustainability—already a key focus today.
While aluminum is infinitely recyclable, canmakers and brands are looking at ways to make cans even more sustainable by using post-consumer recycled (PCR) content as opposed to new, pure aluminum.
The aluminum substrate is constantly evolving. In addition to using recycled aluminum, there is also a strong focus on producing cans using less metal. This not only reduces costs but also improves the environmental footprint. All these changes to the metal impact how a coating performs, which is why PPG is continually enhancing its technology to meet these requirements.
Navigating Through Regulations Takes a Village
When it comes to materials that come into contact with beverages and food, regulations can be highly complex and vary from country to country. Viki emphasizes the importance of teamwork in navigating these complexities.
"We have a fantastic regulatory team at PPG that focuses on monitoring food contact regulations across different countries."
Many customers are deeply concerned about the evolving regulatory landscape. These regulations have driven the development of non-bisphenol easy-open-end coatings such as PPG Innovel®PRO, PPG Innovel®EVO, and PPG iSense®.
In Europe, we anticipate
legislation will soon change to move away from BPA and other bisphenols in coatings. With these three products, PPG is well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of the market.
Reflecting on her role and the journey of the EOE team, Viki's passion and sense of purpose can be sensed from miles away.
"The team really enjoys what they do and sees the purpose. We recognize our wins. We’ve grown across 2023 and 2024, and I make sure my teams are aware of this, because they're part of the journey."
Viki also acknowledges that the success of her role is not a solo endeavor.
"It takes a whole village to do all this, and a good support system to thrive in a global position like mine. My family and my team's support allow me to fulfill my career needs—which is being able to travel, take on challenges, and make an impact in our EOE industry."