Canned beer has revolutionized both the brewing world and among beer lovers. What was once considered the packaging of cheap, mass-produced beer has undergone a remarkable change. It is now associated with quality, innovation and, above all, convenience. In this blog, you’ll discover why canned beer has become so popular.
1. Convenience
One of the most obvious reasons for the rise of canned beer is the unprecedented convenience it offers. In a world where mobility and practicality are paramount, cans are a perfect solution for numerous situations. Lightweight and unbreakable, they are designed to integrate seamlessly into various outdoor activities, such as festivals, picnics and adventurous excursions.
The compact design of cans makes them particularly suitable for travel. They fit effortlessly into coolers without taking up much space, and can be easily stacked for maximum efficiency. So for travelers, cans offer a practical convenience without the awkward lugging of traditional bottles.
2. Protection from light and oxygen
Freshness is essential for true beer lovers to fully enjoy their favorite drink. In this quest for good taste and quality, canned beer offers a perfect solution. It is no secret that exposure to light can have a significant effect on the taste of beer. Cans, unlike glass, do not allow light to pass through, keeping the beer protected from the influences of (sun) light. This means that every sip of the beer is as fresh and flavorful as the brewer intended, without compromising the flavor profiles.
But the protection doesn’t stop at just light. The airtight design of the can seals the beer from the outside world, protecting it from the effects of oxygen. Oxygen quickly degrades the taste of beer, which can give it a musty aftertaste. Hermetically sealing a can extends its shelf life and preserves the true taste of the beer.
3. Sustainability
The story begins with the composition of the cans themselves. Nearly half of the material from which cans are made is recycled material. This ongoing recycling reduces waste and the need for new raw materials, thereby reducing beer’s carbon footprint.
But the sustainability of canned beer extends beyond just the material used. The lower weight of canned compared to glass bottles results in less energy consumption during transportation. This means that conscious consumers and breweries can enjoy a more environmentally friendly product.
In addition, cans are highly recyclable. They can be recycled up to nine times before completing their life cycle. This repeated recycling reduces the demand for new raw materials, contributing to a more sustainable future for our planet.
4. Design and branding
Using can as a packaging material for beer opens up a world of creative possibilities for brewers to reinforce their brand identity and attract consumers. Unlike traditional glass bottles, the entire surface of a can provides a blank canvas for brewers to tell their story and make their unique mark.
With the freedom to utilize the entire can, brewers can indulge in eye-catching designs, vibrant colors and bold illustrations that grab attention and hold the consumer’s eye. From bold graphic prints to subtle, minimalist designs, each can tells a story that finds resonance with a specific audience.
In addition, the use of cans as packaging materials provides an excellent opportunity for brand promotion. Brand logos can be prominently displayed, while relevant information about the beer, such as flavor profiles, ingredients and brewing process, is clearly communicated. This enables consumers to make informed choices while strengthening brand loyalty.
5. Explore new markets
Canned beer offers a range of benefits that make it ideal for venues where glass bottles are not allowed, such as sports stadiums, concert halls, parks and even beaches.
The prohibition of glass in these environments is often driven by safety concerns, as broken glass can cause injury and pose a risk to the visitor experience. This is where canned beer comes in as a safer alternative that not only meets the requirements, but also allows the enjoyment of beer to be shared in environments that previously had no access to it.
This expansion into new locations allows breweries to expand their reach and present their beers to a wider audience. It opens the door to opportunities for growth and distribution that may have previously seemed out of reach.
6. Perception of quality
Last but not least, canned beer has caused a remarkable shift in the perception of quality. What was once considered inferior beer is now being embraced by craft breweries offering high-quality canned beers. Consumers are increasingly recognizing that beer quality is not dependent on the packaging form, but on the content of the beer.
Canned beer: a symbol of convenience, quality and innovation
Canned beer has revolutionized from a symbol of cheap beer to an icon of convenience, quality and innovation. With its convenient design, protection from light and oxygen, durability, creative branding options and exploration of new markets, it has changed the perception of quality and remains an example of progress in the beer industry.
