From Ethylene Dichloride to Acetylene, the science, economics, and future of the global PVC supply chain
Chemical & Material
Metal cans remain a preferred packaging solution across industries, with 2-piece cans dominating the beverage sector and 3-piece cans thriving in food and aerosol applications.
The metal can industry is a vital segment of the global packaging market, offering durable, sustainable, and versatile solutions for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. Metal cans, primarily made from aluminum and tin-plated steel, have been a staple in packaging for over a century due to their superior barrier properties, recyclability, and ability to preserve product integrity for extended periods. The demand for metal cans is largely driven by the food and beverage sector, where they are used for packaging carbonated soft drinks, beer, canned foods, ready-to-eat meals, and dairy products. The beverage industry, in particular, is a major consumer of aluminum cans, as they provide lightweight, tamper-resistant, and highly recyclable packaging for sodas, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages. The food segment also relies heavily on metal cans for their ability to prevent contamination, extend shelf life, and maintain product freshness without the need for refrigeration. Additionally, metal cans play a significant role in the aerosol industry, with applications ranging from personal care products like deodorants and hairsprays to household and industrial sprays. Pharmaceuticals and healthcare industries also utilize metal cans for the safe storage of medicines, nutritional supplements, and baby formula, benefiting from their non-reactive properties and ability to protect contents from moisture, light, and oxygen. One of the key advantages of metal cans is their recyclability, with aluminum being one of the most efficiently recycled materials worldwide. Unlike plastic, which degrades over multiple recycling processes, aluminum and steel cans can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality, making them a preferred choice for brands and consumers focused on sustainability.
According to the research report "Global Metal Can Market Outlook, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the Global Metal Can market was valued at more than USD 120.68 Billion in 2024, and expected to reach a market size of more than USD 166.66 Billion by 2030 with the CAGR of 5.65% from 2025-30. Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly promoting metal packaging as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics, further driving the growth of the metal can industry. Moreover, advancements in manufacturing technology have led to the development of lightweight, high-strength cans that optimize material usage while maintaining durability, reducing both production costs and environmental impact. Innovations in design, such as resealable lids, embossed branding, and improved can coatings, have also enhanced the functionality and appeal of metal cans across different industries. The market has witnessed growing demand for specialty cans, including premium and customized packaging solutions that cater to niche consumer preferences, such as craft beer, organic foods, and high-end cosmetic products. However, the industry faces challenges, including fluctuating raw material prices, energy-intensive production processes, and competition from alternative packaging materials such as glass and biodegradable plastics. Nevertheless, the increasing focus on circular economy initiatives, combined with ongoing innovations in lightweighting and smart packaging, is expected to sustain the growth of the metal can industry in the coming years. As brands continue to prioritize eco-friendly packaging and consumers seek sustainable alternatives, metal cans remain an essential and evolving part of the global packaging landscape, offering a balance of durability, recyclability, and design flexibility that aligns with modern market demands. The future of the metal can industry will likely be shaped by advancements in material science, digital printing technologies, and regulatory policies aimed at reducing packaging waste, ensuring its continued relevance in the packaging sector.
Aluminum cans are widely preferred in the beverage industry due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and excellent recyclability. They are the go-to packaging solution for carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages like beer, as aluminum provides an airtight seal that preserves freshness, prevents contamination, and extends shelf life. The demand for aluminum cans has surged in recent years, driven by increasing consumer preference for sustainable packaging and the growing trend of canned beverages, including craft beers, cold brew coffees, and flavored waters. Additionally, aluminum cans offer a superior recycling rate compared to plastic and glass, with the ability to be infinitely recycled without losing quality, making them a highly sustainable choice for environmentally conscious brands and consumers. The beverage industry's shift towards lightweight packaging and reduced carbon footprint has further fueled innovation in aluminum can manufacturing, leading to the development of thinner, stronger cans that require less material while maintaining structural integrity. On the other hand, steel cans hold a significant market share, particularly in the food packaging, aerosol, and industrial product segments. Tin-plated steel cans are widely used for canned foods such as vegetables, soups, meats, and seafood, as they provide excellent protection against light, moisture, and oxygen, ensuring product longevity without the need for refrigeration. The robustness of steel makes it ideal for high-temperature processing methods such as sterilization and retort packaging, which are essential for preserving perishable foods. Additionally, steel cans are heavily utilized in the aerosol industry for products like deodorants, hairsprays, air fresheners, and household cleaners, as well as in the chemical and industrial sectors for paints, lubricants, and adhesives. The pharmaceutical industry also relies on steel cans for secure and tamper-proof packaging of medicinal products, infant formula, and nutritional supplements. While steel is heavier than aluminum, its durability and resistance to external forces make it a preferred choice for applications where strength and stability are critical. In terms of recyclability, steel cans are among the most recycled packaging materials globally, with established recycling infrastructures ensuring that used cans are efficiently repurposed into new products, reducing waste and resource consumption.
Easy-open ends (EOE) have become the most popular closure solution across food and beverage packaging, offering a hassle-free way to open metal cans without the need for additional tools such as can openers. These ends, typically made from aluminum or tin-plated steel, feature a pull-tab mechanism that allows users to access the contents quickly and easily. EOE technology has significantly boosted consumer preference for canned products in both the food and beverage industries, as it improves usability while maintaining the integrity of the packaging. The demand for EOE has surged in sectors such as canned soft drinks, beer, ready-to-eat meals, and pet food, where convenience is a key factor driving purchasing decisions. Moreover, advancements in EOE design, such as reinforced pull-tabs and improved lid strength, have further enhanced safety and ease of use, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking to cater to modern consumer expectations. Peel-off end (POE) closures have also gained traction, particularly in premium food and pharmaceutical packaging. Unlike traditional easy-open ends, POE closures use a flexible aluminum foil or composite membrane that can be peeled away effortlessly, providing a more controlled and hygienic opening experience. POE is commonly used for canned foods such as soups, baby food, dairy products, and nutritional supplements, where maintaining sterility and product freshness is crucial. This type of closure is particularly beneficial for packaging that requires vacuum sealing or retort sterilization, as it provides a strong barrier against air, moisture, and contaminants while ensuring user convenience. Additionally, POE closures have seen rising adoption in medical and healthcare packaging, where precision in opening and resealability are essential. The increasing demand for lightweight and easy-to-handle packaging solutions has further propelled the growth of POE closures in the metal can market.
2-piece cans, which consist of a seamless body and a separate lid, are widely used in the beverage industry due to their lightweight design, superior strength, and cost-effective mass production. These cans are typically made from aluminum or tin-plated steel and are manufactured using either the draw and redraw (DRD) process or the draw and iron (DWI) process, which allows for high-speed production and reduced material usage. 2-piece cans are particularly dominant in the carbonated soft drink, beer, and energy drink markets, as they provide excellent durability and resistance to pressure, ensuring the safe containment of fizzy beverages. Additionally, their seamless design minimizes the risk of leaks and contamination, making them an ideal choice for food packaging applications such as canned fruits, vegetables, soups, and seafood. The growing demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions has further fueled the adoption of 2-piece cans, particularly aluminum variants, as they offer an infinite recycling cycle without loss of quality. The beverage industry’s shift towards lightweight and environmentally friendly packaging has also led to continuous innovations in 2-piece can manufacturing, including thinner walls, improved printing techniques, and resealable designs. On the other hand, 3-piece cans, which consist of a cylindrical body with a welded side seam, a top lid, and a bottom lid, are widely used for food, aerosol, and industrial applications. These cans are traditionally made from tin-plated steel, offering robustness and structural integrity for packaging non-carbonated food items such as beans, meats, sauces, and powdered products. Unlike 2-piece cans, 3-piece cans allow for greater flexibility in size and shape, making them suitable for a wide range of products, including large-sized cans for bulk storage and specialty food items. One of the key advantages of 3-piece cans is their ability to withstand high-temperature sterilization processes, such as retort canning, which ensures long shelf life and food safety. This makes them a preferred choice for canned foods that require extended preservation without refrigeration. Additionally, 3-piece cans are extensively used in the aerosol industry, where they serve as containers for deodorants, hair sprays, air fresheners, and industrial chemicals. Their ability to maintain internal pressure and compatibility with various valve systems makes them a reliable packaging option for pressurized products. Furthermore, 3-piece cans are commonly used for industrial goods such as paints, adhesives, and lubricants, where their durability and tamper-resistant design ensure secure storage and transportation.
According to the research report "Global Metal Can Market Outlook, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the Global Metal Can market was valued at more than USD 120.68 Billion in 2024, and expected to reach a market size of more than USD 166.66 Billion by 2030 with the CAGR of 5.65% from 2025-30. Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly promoting metal packaging as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics, further driving the growth of the metal can industry. Moreover, advancements in manufacturing technology have led to the development of lightweight, high-strength cans that optimize material usage while maintaining durability, reducing both production costs and environmental impact. Innovations in design, such as resealable lids, embossed branding, and improved can coatings, have also enhanced the functionality and appeal of metal cans across different industries. The market has witnessed growing demand for specialty cans, including premium and customized packaging solutions that cater to niche consumer preferences, such as craft beer, organic foods, and high-end cosmetic products. However, the industry faces challenges, including fluctuating raw material prices, energy-intensive production processes, and competition from alternative packaging materials such as glass and biodegradable plastics. Nevertheless, the increasing focus on circular economy initiatives, combined with ongoing innovations in lightweighting and smart packaging, is expected to sustain the growth of the metal can industry in the coming years. As brands continue to prioritize eco-friendly packaging and consumers seek sustainable alternatives, metal cans remain an essential and evolving part of the global packaging landscape, offering a balance of durability, recyclability, and design flexibility that aligns with modern market demands. The future of the metal can industry will likely be shaped by advancements in material science, digital printing technologies, and regulatory policies aimed at reducing packaging waste, ensuring its continued relevance in the packaging sector.
Aluminum cans are widely preferred in the beverage industry due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and excellent recyclability. They are the go-to packaging solution for carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages like beer, as aluminum provides an airtight seal that preserves freshness, prevents contamination, and extends shelf life. The demand for aluminum cans has surged in recent years, driven by increasing consumer preference for sustainable packaging and the growing trend of canned beverages, including craft beers, cold brew coffees, and flavored waters. Additionally, aluminum cans offer a superior recycling rate compared to plastic and glass, with the ability to be infinitely recycled without losing quality, making them a highly sustainable choice for environmentally conscious brands and consumers. The beverage industry's shift towards lightweight packaging and reduced carbon footprint has further fueled innovation in aluminum can manufacturing, leading to the development of thinner, stronger cans that require less material while maintaining structural integrity. On the other hand, steel cans hold a significant market share, particularly in the food packaging, aerosol, and industrial product segments. Tin-plated steel cans are widely used for canned foods such as vegetables, soups, meats, and seafood, as they provide excellent protection against light, moisture, and oxygen, ensuring product longevity without the need for refrigeration. The robustness of steel makes it ideal for high-temperature processing methods such as sterilization and retort packaging, which are essential for preserving perishable foods. Additionally, steel cans are heavily utilized in the aerosol industry for products like deodorants, hairsprays, air fresheners, and household cleaners, as well as in the chemical and industrial sectors for paints, lubricants, and adhesives. The pharmaceutical industry also relies on steel cans for secure and tamper-proof packaging of medicinal products, infant formula, and nutritional supplements. While steel is heavier than aluminum, its durability and resistance to external forces make it a preferred choice for applications where strength and stability are critical. In terms of recyclability, steel cans are among the most recycled packaging materials globally, with established recycling infrastructures ensuring that used cans are efficiently repurposed into new products, reducing waste and resource consumption.
Easy-open ends (EOE) have become the most popular closure solution across food and beverage packaging, offering a hassle-free way to open metal cans without the need for additional tools such as can openers. These ends, typically made from aluminum or tin-plated steel, feature a pull-tab mechanism that allows users to access the contents quickly and easily. EOE technology has significantly boosted consumer preference for canned products in both the food and beverage industries, as it improves usability while maintaining the integrity of the packaging. The demand for EOE has surged in sectors such as canned soft drinks, beer, ready-to-eat meals, and pet food, where convenience is a key factor driving purchasing decisions. Moreover, advancements in EOE design, such as reinforced pull-tabs and improved lid strength, have further enhanced safety and ease of use, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking to cater to modern consumer expectations. Peel-off end (POE) closures have also gained traction, particularly in premium food and pharmaceutical packaging. Unlike traditional easy-open ends, POE closures use a flexible aluminum foil or composite membrane that can be peeled away effortlessly, providing a more controlled and hygienic opening experience. POE is commonly used for canned foods such as soups, baby food, dairy products, and nutritional supplements, where maintaining sterility and product freshness is crucial. This type of closure is particularly beneficial for packaging that requires vacuum sealing or retort sterilization, as it provides a strong barrier against air, moisture, and contaminants while ensuring user convenience. Additionally, POE closures have seen rising adoption in medical and healthcare packaging, where precision in opening and resealability are essential. The increasing demand for lightweight and easy-to-handle packaging solutions has further propelled the growth of POE closures in the metal can market.
2-piece cans, which consist of a seamless body and a separate lid, are widely used in the beverage industry due to their lightweight design, superior strength, and cost-effective mass production. These cans are typically made from aluminum or tin-plated steel and are manufactured using either the draw and redraw (DRD) process or the draw and iron (DWI) process, which allows for high-speed production and reduced material usage. 2-piece cans are particularly dominant in the carbonated soft drink, beer, and energy drink markets, as they provide excellent durability and resistance to pressure, ensuring the safe containment of fizzy beverages. Additionally, their seamless design minimizes the risk of leaks and contamination, making them an ideal choice for food packaging applications such as canned fruits, vegetables, soups, and seafood. The growing demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions has further fueled the adoption of 2-piece cans, particularly aluminum variants, as they offer an infinite recycling cycle without loss of quality. The beverage industry’s shift towards lightweight and environmentally friendly packaging has also led to continuous innovations in 2-piece can manufacturing, including thinner walls, improved printing techniques, and resealable designs. On the other hand, 3-piece cans, which consist of a cylindrical body with a welded side seam, a top lid, and a bottom lid, are widely used for food, aerosol, and industrial applications. These cans are traditionally made from tin-plated steel, offering robustness and structural integrity for packaging non-carbonated food items such as beans, meats, sauces, and powdered products. Unlike 2-piece cans, 3-piece cans allow for greater flexibility in size and shape, making them suitable for a wide range of products, including large-sized cans for bulk storage and specialty food items. One of the key advantages of 3-piece cans is their ability to withstand high-temperature sterilization processes, such as retort canning, which ensures long shelf life and food safety. This makes them a preferred choice for canned foods that require extended preservation without refrigeration. Additionally, 3-piece cans are extensively used in the aerosol industry, where they serve as containers for deodorants, hair sprays, air fresheners, and industrial chemicals. Their ability to maintain internal pressure and compatibility with various valve systems makes them a reliable packaging option for pressurized products. Furthermore, 3-piece cans are commonly used for industrial goods such as paints, adhesives, and lubricants, where their durability and tamper-resistant design ensure secure storage and transportation.
Related Press Releases
Quick Contacts
.png "Nikita Jabrela")
Trusted Partners
Latest Press Release
We are friendly and approachable, give us a call.