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Packaging specialists ALPLA and CCL Label have developed a stackable PET beverage can designed to offer drink manufacturers a scalable alternative to traditional aluminium cans.

The 0.33-litre PET container combines the appearance of a metal can with the material properties of transparent PET. It can be integrated into existing PET filling lines and does not require an internal BPA-containing epoxy coating.

The partners said the solution is designed to provide beverage manufacturers with greater packaging flexibility while supporting recyclability and supply chain efficiency.

The PET can can be produced using recycled PET (rPET), allowing it to be incorporated into existing bottle-to-bottle recycling streams and potentially reduce associated CO2 emissions.

Its full-body decoration is provided by CCL Label's detachable EcoFloat® shrink sleeve. Made from low-density polyolefin (PO), the sleeve is designed to separate from PET flakes during the recycling process.

The sleeve provides a 360-degree decoration surface, including options for metallic and mirror-finish effects, while giving brands flexibility to create a high-impact appearance without adding coatings directly to the PET container.

Because the sleeve is applied after filling, manufacturers can also maintain greater flexibility over packaging and design requirements.

The container features a tethered, resealable cap, which the companies said can help prevent contaminants and insects from entering the package. This could also reduce cleaning requirements during recycling and support collection through household and deposit-return systems.

ALPLA and CCL Label said the PET format could offer beverage producers an alternative at a time when packaging regulations and supply chain considerations are increasing pressure on material choices.

The companies specifically highlighted EU restrictions on certain bisphenol-containing food packaging, noting that many such products, particularly disposable packaging, may no longer be placed on the market from July 2026.

Daniel Lehner, global sales director, food & beverage at ALPLA, said: "A beverage can may just as well be made of plastic. Our PET can relies on the well-known material properties of transparent PET, which have proven themselves on the market, strengthen the supply chain and can highlight special products as a novelty."

The use of PET also enables the container to be incorporated into existing PET filling infrastructure, potentially reducing the need for manufacturers to make significant changes to production lines.

The companies said their combined manufacturing capabilities are intended to allow the PET can to be scaled quickly in response to demand, helping beverage manufacturers maintain product availability.

"The PET can combines these features and enables our customers to have a seamless and long-term supply," Lehner added.