Two years ago, it seemed like everyone had heard of the way the growler was changing the craft beer brewing industry as we knew it. The large, glass or ceramic containers enabled breweries to extend their brand far beyond the confines of the brewhouse itself. Unfortunately, growlers aren’t always the most forgiving way of transporting beer; their overall weight is a drawback for some, while their propensity to shatter when dropped is another factor and potential downfall.
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Beer Crowlers
Now, another container is poised to oust the growler as the most popular way to transport beer – the crowler. These 32 ounce aluminum cans have the extended capacity of a growler, all with the ease of a traditional can.
However, the question remains:
How can you label your crowlers in a way that builds your brand?
Start with these tips…
1. Always use high quality labels. Many breweries have tried – and failed – while experimenting with applying simple stick-on paper labels behind the bar. Run-of-the mill labels don’t display color well and tend to peel and bubble when exposed to refrigeration and moisture – two things necessary for storing your great beer. Ensure all labeling and adhesives are waterproof and resistant to changes in temperature.
2. Consider pressure sensitive labels. Pressure sensitive labels can be applied in small-run batches at the beginning of the day, allowing you to keep a stock ready to go behind the bar. Pressure sensitive labels come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to utilize a large label to ensure your brand speaks loud and clear no matter your design. Wether they are applied by machine or hand, your custom printed labels will stay put long after your beer leaves the brewery.
3. Shrink sleeve labeling is a win. If you’re wanting a crowler that makes a bold statement and stands out among the crowd, shrink sleeve labeling may be your best bet. You can cover the entire surface of the can with your branding, including the contoured ends. A small investment in a shrink-sleeve machine allows you to fill and label a beer for a customer within minutes.
4. Change up your labeling. Use a variety of labels for seasonals, popular flagships, and specialties so your customers always know exactly what’s in their crowler. Print labels in small runs so that each high-quality label reflects each beer’s unique branding. Thinking outside the box? Our Mosaic hyper-customization is a unique technique that is sure to draw attention to your new brew.
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You’ve created the perfect craft beer – now, create the perfect craft beer label to share your brew with the world. Transition your existing beer branding to this exciting new label format today.
Reach out to the professionals at Century Label regarding our pressure sensitive, shrink sleeve, and other food and beverage labels today – call 800.537.9429 or request a quote online.
