Metal ‘can do’ in tough times

As consumers adjust to challenging economic times, distinct alterations in consumer behavior can be seen. Ranging from a rise in entertaining at home and do-it-yourself projects to heightened concern about product waste, similar patterns are being observed across regions and markets as consumers weather the recessionary storm. Yet for consumer product goods companies, this does not necessarily spell trouble.

As budget tightening hits wallets and purses around the globe, more people are choosing to socialise at home rather than dine out.

To jazz up packaging, brand owners can incorporate metal packaging with advanced decorative and shaping techniques for visual appeal. One way is through the use of high quality printing and photographic realism, such as Pictoris print technology from Crown, which gives beverage cans a contemporary graphic edge.

Another example is the fine Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut champagne that comes in a metal container from Crown, which is enhanced by the delicate perforations of the famous anemones and embossing of the Perrier-Jouët logo.

Sustainable metal containers can become keepsakes and reusable containers long after products have been consumed, offering additional economic benefits. As an example, Crown produces metal containers featuring vivid images of movie heroes and toy-shapes.

Waste not, want not

Another obvious trend of the current belt tightening is that consumers are more conscious of and adverse to waste. Every little bit counts and manufacturers providing packaging options that allow for 100% utilisation and maximum preservation may find themselves ahead of the curve.

To this purpose, aerosols are being used for condiments, creams, oils, and even pancake batter. Aerosol containers keep perishable food fresh for longer while also dispensing food products in a fun and unique way.

Cans are robust and highly resistant to damage, making them ideal for stockpiling. Hard-pressed consumers can save money by taking advantage of special offers in their local supermarkets.

Resealable and multi-serve packaging also address growing attention to reducing product waste, giving the consumer more value for money. First, single-serve packaging can help consumers avoid waste by providing the perfect portion size. One example is Bonduelle’s Maïs & Fruit brand, which uses Crown’s single-serve bowl-shaped cans with Crown’s PeelSeam peelable ends lids for easy opening.

With a trend for do-it-yourself makeovers growing in tough economic times, consumers are taking on projects that would have previously been undertaken by professionals. One task that consumers are increasingly tackling is painting, and metal packaging can allow for ease of application from a stable container. One example is ICI Hammerite, which adopted new aerosol packaging for its Hammerite Metalmaster Electrostatic Paint Gun range of metal coatings, currently available in DIY outlets across Europe. The cordless product provides a quick and effortless solution for coating intricate metal surfaces, such as railings, decorative gates and garden furniture.

The package consists of two parts: the paint gun itself and a paint canister, which uses Crown’s bi-compartmented (BICAN) technology. The package consistently delivers the protective coating to the electrostatic head at the exact flow rate required.

Handy consumers also need cans to be easily and safely opened, eliminating the need for extra tools like the trusty screwdriver. A case in point is the Clipper Can system, a development also from Crown. Ideal for all types of indoor and outdoor paints, varnishes and coatings, this innovative packaging solution features a specially designed plastisol-lined metal lid with easy-grip tabs. In addition to this easy-open convenience, the Clipper Can System closes more securely than traditional packaging methods, reducing the threat of leakage during transport, distribution and storage.

While consumers are making lifestyle changes during this tough economic time, it should be noted that they are not, in general, willing to sacrifice sustainability for economic gains. Steel and aluminum can be easily recycled over and over again.