Craft beers are exploding. Virtually speaking.
With names like Hoptimus Prime, Elvis Juice, Yellow Snow IPA, and Darth Lager, there seems to be no end to the number of new entries on the craft beer scene.
As of 2023, there were estimated to be over 9,500 craft breweries in the United States alone. Given that many breweries offer multiple styles and variations, the total number of them is likely in the tens of thousands. Look beyond our borders and the number goes even higher with the presence of craft breweries in Europe, Australia, Asia, and other regions.
With all this competition in the marketplace for the consumer dollar, the need for craft beer brands to appear “cooler” – virtually speaking – is paramount. And aluminum bottles deliver that cool factor in a way that cans – can’t.
First, there’s the high-end appeal. Custom shaped aluminum bottles convey a sense of luxury and exclusivity, making the beer inside feel more premium compared to standard cans. The tactile experience of holding a bottle with a distinct shape enhances the perception of craftsmanship and quality.
Remember that the more unique the container = the more memorable the brand. The distinct shape of the aluminum bottle can become a hallmark of the brand, making it instantly recognizable. For example, a bottle designed to resemble a barrel or have sculpted features will create a strong association with a brewery’s distinctive story or theme.
Then there’s the exclusivity of limited editions and collectibles. Breweries can use shaped bottles for limited-edition or specialty brews. Consumers will view these as collectible items, adding value to the purchase beyond the brew itself. This sense of rarity can drive purchases, especially among collectors and craft beer enthusiasts.
And let’s not forget brand differentiation from competitors. Dynamic decorating and a unique shape can help a craft beer stand out in today’s extremely crowded marketplace where most products are typically packaged in cans or glass bottles. Buyers will be drawn to the novelty of the aluminum bottle packaging, especially if it contrasts with the more traditional designs and typical shapes of competitors.
And finally, there’s the unsurpassed combination of durability and sustainability that this packaging solution offers. Nothing is more recyclable than aluminum, which accounts for its appeal with eco-conscious consumers. The perception that the shaped bottle is reusable, and recyclable makes it more attractive to buyers who prioritize sustainability.
Whatever the criteria, uniquely shaped and dynamically decorated aluminum bottles offer a more premium and memorable experience when compared to typical cans. Their one-of-a-kind design appeals to brew-conscious consumers seeking both aesthetic value and practicality, influencing purchasing decisions by offering something far beyond the ordinary in the craft beer market.
With decades of experience and innovation in manufacturing aluminum beverage bottles, CCL Container is the trusted partner for your craft beer – whatever its name may be.
Get in touch with us today and see how our aluminum bottle solutions can make your “happy hour” even happier.