Ultimate Guide to Craft Beer Packaging

Craft beer packaging is more than just a container—it's a powerful marketing tool that can significantly impact your sales. In a market with over 3,000 breweries and 30,000 unique beer styles, standing out on the shelf is crucial. A well-designed package not only attracts customers but also conveys your brand's story and values.

1. Identify Your Packaging Needs

First, determine the type of packaging suitable for your beer. Consider new innovations, the number of units needed, and how the packaging can reflect and extend your brand identity.

For example if you choose a can, consider the can formats (see below) :

2. Set a Budget

Understand the costs involved, both visible (design and materials) and hidden (fillers, breakage). A comprehensive budget helps streamline the process and ensures you can afford quality packaging that aligns with your product's price and anticipated sales.

3. Analyze the Competition

Examine your competitors' packaging to identify opportunities to stand out. Use the latest design and marketing innovations to create a unique and compelling package.

4. Design Your Packaging

Focus on key elements such as the type of beer, target customer, and purchase context. Incorporate essential information (brewery name, beer style, ABV) and brand-focused elements (personality, story, eco-friendly features). Utilize the Billboard Effect by designing packages that create a striking visual when displayed together.

5. Implement Innovative Features

Consider using QR codes for additional product information, digitized printing for customization, and eco-friendly materials to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

6. Comprehensive Packaging Solutions

Think beyond the primary container. Mother cartons, can and bottle trays, and custom packaging solutions can enhance functionality and branding. Ensure these components are designed to support weight and protect during shipping.

7. Choose the Right Printing Style

Evaluate printing options like lithography for high volume runs, high-speed digital for flexible designs, and flexography for cost-effective but lower-quality prints. Select the method that best suits your production needs and budget.

8. Create a Dieline

A precise dieline template ensures accurate design transfer. Use professional tools like Adobe Illustrator to create these templates, or rely on your packaging partner for this task.

9. Prepare Artwork

Collaborate with your packaging partner to deliver high-resolution artwork. Ensure your designs meet the specifications for CMYK printing to maintain color accuracy and quality.

10. Prototype Your Packaging

Request a prototype to verify the design and structure before full production. This step is essential for identifying any issues and making necessary adjustments.

11. Production and Shipping

Once approved, move to full-scale production. Work with your account manager to monitor the process and ensure timely delivery. Plan your supply chain to manage manufacturing, storage, and retailer delivery effectively.

• Volume Purchasing: Buy in bulk to reduce costs but be mindful of storage and handling expenses.

• Retail Displays: Enhance visibility with custom displays in high-traffic areas.

• Color Coding: Simplify product identification with color-coded packaging.

• Supply Chain Management: Keep track of inventory, manage fulfillment costs, and ensure packaging integrity during shipping.

Investing in thoughtful, innovative craft beer packaging can dramatically boost your product's appeal and sales. By following these steps, you can create packaging that not only protects your beer but also promotes your brand effectively. Reach out to our team today to start your next beer packaging project and make a lasting impression on your customers.