Packfine (Yantai Zhuyuan Environmental Tech Co., Ltd.)’s aluminium slim cans are aimed at Saudi Arabia’s growing demand for innovative beverage packaging, particularly for juice and other non-alcoholic drinks. The company supplies 180ml and 250ml slim cans designed to meet both the design and performance needs of beverage producers in the Middle Eastern market. The packaging format is also being considered as brands look for lighter, more distinctive containers for an increasingly competitive market.

Slim cans and beverage presentation

The appearance of beverage packaging is an important consideration for brands competing in the premium segment. Slim cans have a different shape from conventional beverage cans and offer more vertical space for branding and product information. Packfine also offers custom printing, allowing beverage producers to use their own designs on the cans. The smaller formats can be used for individual servings of premium juices and other drinks. Custom printing also allows brands to adapt their packaging for different markets.

In Saudi Arabia, this can include Arabic-language product information and branding suited to local consumers. Packfine offers high-definition dry-offset printing for its aluminium cans. The company says the process allows beverage producers to use detailed designs and multiple colours on the can surface.

Aluminium cans for Saudi climate conditions

Saudi Arabia’s hot climate creates additional requirements for the storage and transportation of beverages. Juice products can spend considerable time in warehouses and transportation networks, making the construction of the container and its internal coating important factors.

Packfine supplies two-piece aluminium cans for beverage applications. The company says its cans are designed to withstand internal pressure and maintain their structural integrity during transportation and storage.

The internal lining is another important part of the packaging. Fruit juices can vary in acidity, and the internal coating helps separate the beverage from the aluminium surface.

Packfine says it uses internal liners designed to provide a barrier between the beverage and the metal. Such coatings are important for protecting the contents of the can and maintaining product quality during its shelf life.

Supply chain requirements in the Gulf

Beverage companies in Saudi Arabia have to manage transport, storage and changes in demand, especially during Ramadan and major national events. This creates demand for different can sizes and formats. Packfine offers several aluminium can formats and easy-open ends, and says it can meet different order requirements.

Food safety and quality standards are also important for companies supplying the wider Gulf Cooperation Council market. Packfine says it holds FSSC 22000 certification, covering food safety management systems. As the Saudi beverage market grows, producers will need packaging that can protect products, withstand transport and storage, and meet branding and recycling needs. Slim aluminium cans are one option for the Saudi and wider Gulf markets.

Saudi beverage market and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s beverage market is growing as the country diversifies its economy under Vision 2030. Demand for non-alcoholic drinks, including fruit juices, botanical drinks and functional beverages, is also rising. This is increasing the need for packaging that protects the product while leaving room for branding and product information.

The Saudi Food Expo allows suppliers and beverage companies to explore packaging options for the Middle Eastern market. Saudi Arabia’s focus on local industry and sustainability is increasing demand for recyclable packaging. Aluminium is lighter than glass and can be recycled many times. Slim cans also take up less shelf space and are easier to transport.

Content courtesy of AL Circle