Canned drinks are seeing significant growth in the UK market, according to the latest Nielsen research revealed today by the Can Makers, with carbonated soft drinks (CSDs), craft beer and flavoured cider proving the main drivers.
According to research conducted by Nielsen, CSDs continue to be the largest market for beverage cans, growing by 5%.
The overall cider market growth areas are all in cans, too. Glass and PET pack formats experienced declines in unit sales of 9% and 5% respectively, while the cans’ market share has grown by 6% so far this year.
The change in consumer perception around the beverage can as a premium product for great tasting drinks has had an impact on growth, as well as the overall experience it provides, which fits in with today’s lifestyle.
With growing interest and concern over packaging’s environmental impact, consumers now want to know what happens to the packaging once they’ve used it, and cans have the best recycling and sustainability record.
Craft beer success
Marcel Arsand, chairman of the Can Makers, said: “Cans are a great choice for drinks brands, retailers and consumers alike. We expect to continue to see greater interest in drink cans pack format after witnessing the success craft beer in cans has enjoyed.
“Not only are cans convenient and easy to chill, they are also infinitely recyclable. This means that consumers can enjoy their favourite drink in a packaging that can be back on the shelf as another drinks can in as little as 8 weeks.”
Nielsen’s research confirmed the craft beer trend is still on the rise in the UK and continues to thrive in cans, growing notably faster than bottled craft beer — +66% versus -3% respectively in the first half of 2018.
Younger customers in particular are drawn to the bold, vibrant 360 degree designs that have become synonymous with craft beer. On the other hand, brewers like cans because they are easy to transport and protect the beverage from light, ensuring the drink they are so passionate about tastes the same when consumed as it does when brewed.
According to Nielsen, there have also been early indications of increased interest in craft cider, which is also expected to generate further interest in the can pack format, following the success of canned craft beer.
