Be cool with a slimline can

Managing director John Moyes says: "Changing the familiar look of the beverage can enhance the appeal of the drink it contains. We decided that with increasing competition from 'fashionable' containers, it was time to improve the image of the can to boost its appeal."

Moyes notes that the slimline can has already been a resounding success in the market; with Coca-Cola one of the first beverages to get to market with the new format container, with excellent consumer acceptance.

Retooling production lines to produce the slimline can is no mean undertaking, reveals Moyes. It represents an investment by the company of some R56-million. However, in addition to creating a fresh new look for existing product lines, the new can is also opening up additional revenue streams for Nampak Bevcan.

Moyes explains: "In the alcopops market, and ready-to-drink beverage sector- such as lattes and ice teas - image is everything. If one looks at the packaging of energy drinks and funky drinks aimed at the young, image conscious teen and twenty-something market, it is critical to present the drink in an appealing container - and the slimline can is just that.

"We're beginning to enter new markets through the introduction of the slimline, which promises to add substantially to the business in the future."

Like its predecessor, Moyes says the Slimline can is manufactured from South African steel and is the most recycled beverage package in the industry.

Nampak Bevcan produces some 2.6 billion cans per annum, this equates to over seven million cans being consumed every day. Moyes notes that cans are perhaps the best container for beverages, as they are the most recyclable, while also providing some 50 000 South Africans with an income through the Collect-A-Can recycling initiative.

"Cans are an excellent container for most beverages, offering a package that is safe, hygienic, convenient and now even more visually appealing packaging. The slimline can is an exciting introduction for Nampak Bevcan, and we hope to see the container taking the company to new heights."