Ball launches aluminium cups

Ball Corporation has launched a pilot of infinitely recyclable aluminium cups in the US. The aluminum cup has been developed over the past several years as an alternative to plastic cups for use at home and in other areas where plastic cups are common, including indoor and outdoor venues across the country. The pilot will produce a limited supply of aluminium cups through 2020 for use in such locations, which include entertainment venues and major concessionaires.

“As our customers and consumers increasingly seek sustainable beverage packaging options, the launch of the aluminium cup is a significant moment for our company,” said John A. Hayes, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Ball.

“It is our responsibility as the leader in aluminium beverage packaging to continuously innovate and provide solutions for our customers. We’re excited to bring the aluminium cup to market and expand the product line next year and beyond.”

Beginning September 2019, Ball will roll out a number of pilots with major venues and concessionaires across the US to replace their plastic cups with aluminium cups. Ball’s research shows that 67% of US consumers say they will visit a venue more often if they use aluminium cups instead of plastic cups and that 78% of consumers expect beverage brands to use environmentally friendly containers in the next five years.

In addition to its sustainability and recycling strengths, the aluminium cup is sturdy, durable and cool to the touch, and it can be customised with logos and graphics. The cup is currently available in a 20-ounce size and Ball aims to introduce additional sizes in the future based on market demand. Ball expects to ramp up production in its Westminster, Colorado, innovation facility by the end of 2020, and it looks forward to the opportunity to expand adoption of the cups to restaurants, bars, convenience stores, breweries and retail locations.