Why Aluminum Bottles Are Here To Stay

Coca-Cola recently launched aluminum bottles inspired by  the shape of their iconic glass bottle. Other than the visual wow-factor, aluminum bottles have several advantages over glass and plastic. Here are five reasons why they are here to stay:

Energy Saving

• Because these new-age aluminum bottles are lighter and stronger than glass, pallets can be stacked on top of one another. This conserves space and maximizes fuel economy.
• The aluminum retains its temperature better than glass or plastic, requiring less energy to keep cool.

Recycling

• Aluminum bottles are made only from aluminum–even the label design is printed on the surface of the bottle. Glass and plastic bottles have labels and caps that must be sorted out before recycling.

Coca-Cola's aluminum bottles featuring all-over patterns designed by Karl Lagerfeld.

Branding

• Bottles–whether glass or aluminum–are generally thought to have a more high-end feel than cans or plastic bottles.
• Coca-Cola has taken advantage of the cost-effectiveness and versatility of direct bottle printing to create several runs of limited edition branded bottles. These collaborations tap into different niche markets and some have become collectors’ items.

Coca-Cola's M5 series of aluminum bottles featured work by noted graphic designers from around the world.

Distribution Channels

• Glass bottles have been banned at most events and public outdoor areas because the broken glass poses a safety risk. For products traditionally sold in glass bottles–like beer–the aluminum bottle is a way to get around these regulations while maintaining the premium price point.
• Wineries are considering aluminum bottles as an option for portable, single serving containers that can be consumed outdoors.

These aluminum cans from Miller Light can be legally enjoyed at sporting events and concerts because they won't break like glass.