UK can sales slide but warmer summer promises rise
Total can deliveries fell by 3% in the first half of 2013 reaching 4.56 billion across the UK, according to the latest figures.
Research from the Can Makers, the body representing the UK manufacturers of beverage cans, covering the first six months of 2013 was released today (20 August).
Nielsen, the agency who complied the figures, report that of the different beer and cider can offerings the smaller sizes, such as 33cl, are performing well with an increase of 12%.
For multipacks there has also been growth in 18 packs, 15 packs and 10 packs and overall sales of beer and cider cans remained relatively level with the same period in 2012.
Geoff Courtney, chairman of the UK Can Makers, said the cold start to the year had hit sales, but hoped the warmer months of July and August would mean the overall figures would be encouraging.
He said, “While the beer and cider market performance is encouraging, first half numbers reveal the significant impact that weather has had on the can market.
“As the UK has enjoyed some much-needed summer sun, the early signs for the drinks market are positive. We hope that the hot weather and retail promotions continue, encouraging more outdoor occasions where drinks in cans are consumed.”
The figures revealed a downward trend in sales of carbonated soft drink (CSD), with empty can deliveries reaching 2.411 million (-5.1%).
But energy drinks continue to shine, driving growth in the 50cl can size, which was up by 18%.
