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Glass Cup Manufacturer New Zealand

Contents hide

1 Part 1: Market Size and Growth

2 Part 2: Leading Companies

2.1 O-I New Zealand (Owens-Illinois)

2.2 Monmouth Glass Studio

2.3 Luke Jacomb Studio

3 Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

3.1 BuildNZ & Designex

3.2 The Big Design Market (Auckland)

4 Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

5 Part 5: Conclusion

Part 1: Market Size and Growth

New Zealand’s glass manufacturing industry, though small in scale, is distinguished by craftsmanship, sustainability, and design innovation. The market for glass cups, tumblers, and household glassware continues to grow, supported by increasing consumer awareness of sustainability and the country’s strong café and hospitality culture.

Rising demand for reusable and eco-friendly products has fueled the growth of domestic glass cup production. Cafés and restaurants in cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are shifting from plastic and disposable materials to durable, locally made glassware that complements their environmental values. Meanwhile, boutique manufacturers and design studios are emerging to serve both the local and export markets.

The government’s New Zealand Manufacturing Strategy emphasizes circular economy principles and low-emission production. Policies encouraging recycling, renewable energy, and sustainable business models have made New Zealand’s small but vibrant glass sector a model for innovation in the Pacific region. Exports are increasing, particularly to Australia and Asia, as buyers seek handcrafted, sustainable alternatives to mass-produced glassware.

Part 2: Leading Companies

O-I New Zealand (Owens-Illinois)

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O-I New Zealand, established in 1922, is part of Owens-Illinois, one of the world’s largest glass manufacturers. Based in Penrose, Auckland, O-I New Zealand produces glass cups, jars, and bottles for the beverage, retail, and hospitality sectors. It is the country’s largest glass producer and a key contributor to sustainable manufacturing.

The company serves both domestic and international clients, including wineries, breweries, and homeware brands. Its glass cups and tumblers are known for clarity, strength, and minimalistic design, aligning with New Zealand’s emphasis on practicality and sustainability. O-I New Zealand recycles over 250,000 tons of glass annually, contributing significantly to the circular economy.

Technological highlights include automated forming systems, waste heat recovery, and high-efficiency furnaces. O-I holds ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications and has been recognized by the Sustainable Business Network for its environmental initiatives.

Monmouth Glass Studio

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Monmouth Glass Studio, founded in 2012 in Auckland, is a leading artisanal glassmaking studio specializing in hand-blown glass cups, vases, and homeware. Each piece is made by hand using traditional techniques combined with contemporary design aesthetics.

The studio caters to boutique retailers, restaurants, and private collectors. Its handcrafted glass cups are sought after for their natural imperfections, transparency, and sculptural beauty. Monmouth Glass products are sold across New Zealand and exported to Australia and Japan.

Sustainability is at the core of Monmouth’s philosophy. The studio uses recycled glass and operates energy-efficient furnaces. It has been featured in design exhibitions and publications for its commitment to craftsmanship and eco-conscious production.

Luke Jacomb Studio

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Luke Jacomb Studio, based in Auckland, is a family-run glass art and design workshop established in 2008. While best known for decorative works, the studio also produces custom-made glass cups and drinkware for high-end clients, combining artistry with functional design. Each cup is handcrafted and signed, making it a collectible item.

The studio serves art galleries, interior designers, and private clients. Its glass cups are characterized by soft colors, clean lines, and meticulous finishing. Luke Jacomb’s work has been exhibited internationally, representing the creative spirit of New Zealand glassmaking.

The company focuses on sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials and low-emission processes. It has received awards from Creative New Zealand and the Designers Institute of New Zealand for its contribution to local craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Company	Founded	Core Products	Industries	Certifications
O-I New Zealand	1922	Cups, Bottles, Containers	Beverage, Hospitality	ISO 9001, ISO 14001
Monmouth Glass Studio	2012	Hand-blown Glass Cups	Artisanal, Retail	Sustainable Business Recognition
Luke Jacomb Studio	2008	Custom Glass Cups, Art Glass	Design, Luxury	Creative NZ Awards

Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

BuildNZ & Designex

BuildNZ & Designex is one of New Zealand’s leading trade events for design, construction, and manufacturing. Glass cup producers and material designers participate to showcase innovations in sustainable design and production technologies.

Held annually in Auckland, the event attracts manufacturers, designers, and industry professionals from across the Pacific. Exhibitors present eco-friendly materials, modern design concepts, and sustainable manufacturing practices. For glassware companies, BuildNZ offers a valuable opportunity to connect with architects, retailers, and suppliers focused on sustainability and quality.

The Big Design Market (Auckland)

The Big Design Market is a major retail and design fair celebrating creativity and craftsmanship. Artisan glass cup producers and design studios participate to present handcrafted glassware, promoting local craftsmanship to consumers and buyers.

The event highlights independent designers and small manufacturers from New Zealand and Australia. Monmouth Glass and Luke Jacomb Studio are frequent participants, showcasing their handmade collections. It’s a platform that bridges the gap between functional design and artistry, encouraging sustainable consumer choices.

Event	Date	Location	Highlights
BuildNZ & Designex	June (Annual)	Auckland	Sustainable Design, Innovation, Manufacturing
The Big Design Market	November (Annual)	Auckland	Artisanal Craft, Local Design, Eco Products

Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

New Zealand’s open trade policy and strong global reputation for quality products have benefited the glass manufacturing industry. The country is part of several major trade agreements, including the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Australia–New Zealand Closer Economic Relations (CER) Trade Agreement. These agreements reduce tariffs and simplify export processes for glass cup manufacturers.

The CPTPP provides access to key markets such as Japan, Canada, and Singapore, while CER allows seamless trade with Australia, New Zealand’s largest trading partner. This has enabled both industrial and artisanal glass producers to expand their international reach.

Sustainability regulations also shape New Zealand’s manufacturing sector. The Zero Carbon Act and the Waste Minimisation Act require companies to adopt low-emission practices and reduce waste. Manufacturers like O-I New Zealand have aligned with these laws by implementing closed-loop recycling systems and switching to renewable energy sources.

Environmental certifications are increasingly valued by international buyers. Glass producers that demonstrate compliance with ISO environmental management standards and circular production principles gain a competitive edge in export markets. Government agencies such as New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and Callaghan Innovation support manufacturers through funding, R&D grants, and export promotion programs.

Challenges include high energy costs and limited domestic raw material sources. However, most glassmakers mitigate these issues by importing recycled cullet and investing in energy-efficient technologies. The country’s focus on sustainability gives its products a premium positioning abroad, as eco-conscious consumers increasingly favor authentic, handmade, and environmentally responsible glassware.

Part 5: Conclusion

New Zealand’s glass cup manufacturing industry is small in scale but rich in creativity, craftsmanship, and environmental integrity. From industrial producers like O-I New Zealand to artisanal studios such as Monmouth Glass and Luke Jacomb Studio, the sector exemplifies the country’s balance of technology and artistry.

The future of the industry lies in its continued commitment to sustainability and design innovation. By investing in recycled materials, renewable energy, and high-quality craftsmanship, New Zealand’s glass manufacturers are carving out a niche in both domestic and international markets. The growing appreciation for eco-friendly and handmade products aligns perfectly with the nation’s environmental values.

Although challenges such as energy costs and market size persist, strong trade partnerships and government support ensure resilience and long-term growth. New Zealand’s glass cup manufacturers are ambassadors of transparency and sustainability, offering products that embody the purity and natural beauty of their environment.

As the world shifts toward conscious consumption, New Zealand stands out as a source of honest, sustainable, and beautifully designed glassware—proof that even small-scale industries can make a clear and lasting impact.