FDBusiness.com

Can maker Rexam has joined forces with Swedish craft beer maker Southside Brewing Company to produce its first ever canned line of Western Pacific IPA.

The move from glass bottle to aluminium highlights the brewer’s dedication to sustainability and will enable it to recycle more, waste less and lower its carbon footprint. The 330ml cans, manufactured by Rexam at its plant in Malmö, will be available from this month in select regions and retail channels throughout Sweden, including Systembolaget.

The permanent design, crafted straight onto can by Rexam design experts, showcases the Western Pacific brand’s Californian heritage; it uses unique brewing techniques and ingredients imported from the west coast of the US.

Speaking about the partnership, Southside Brewing Company Tommy Eriksson said: “I’ve been working in the craft beer industry for over 26 years and seeing the first line of our canned IPA has been monumental! The Rexam team were invaluable in providing support and education around the benefits of the can, in what was a big move for the business.

“Sustainability is important to the Southside Brewing Company and it made sense to use aluminium, enabling us to recycle, reduce waste and do our bit to lower our carbon footprint. We hope the change will encourage other Swedish craft brewers to do the same and we would definitely recommend Rexam to help them do so.”

Rexam marketing manager Arjen van Zurk said: “Globally, the craft beer category has seen huge growth, Sweden alone now has over 130 breweries. We’ve worked with several UK-based brewers to bring to life their unique brand stories on can. It is great to see that the trend to can craft beers is growing outside the UK and we’re pleased to continue our support.”