Co-op launches 94-store trials of new BWS chillers in recyclable aluminium cans

Co-op has initiated a 94-store trial featuring new BWS chillers for single-serve cans. The entire range, available in single-serve recyclable aluminium cans and displayed in new BWS chiller sections, includes pre-mixed cocktails, craft beers, ciders, wines, and ready-to-drink spirit mixers, providing Co-op members and customers with a wide variety of choices.

As per AL Circle's "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024" report, the demand for recycled aluminium has grown steadily during the last decade. While the overall production for aluminium is likely to improve by about 2.3% in 2024, the demand for recycled aluminium is forecasted to grow at about 4.2 per cent.

About the trial

This trial includes ready-to-drink beverages, craft beers, ciders, wine, and cocktails, catering to the increasing demand for 'on-the-go' drinks. The prominent convenience retailer's trial presents a curated selection of customer favourites and exciting new options. With 49 new lines, the trial showcases leading brands like Sipsmith, Jack Daniels, Manchester Gin, Kopparberg, and Beavertown.

 "The on-the-go category is continuing to thrive, which presents a real opportunity for us as a convenience retailer. This is a category that over-indexes on innovation and our curated range looks to balance core member and customer favourites with premium and innovative lines that will drive interest and excitement in-store. Our range has been carefully selected with our convenience shoppers in mind, working with brands to deliver quality without compromise – so whether it's a premium G&T or French red, we have something for everyone," said Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, Co-op head of drinks. To draw attention to the new chilled bays, stores participating in the trial will use floor stickers, shelf stripping, and aisle fins.

The selection also features Fairtrade, B Corp, low-alcohol, and alcohol-free options. This trial is part of Co-op's goal to increase its market share in the 'on-the-go' segment, currently at 7.0 per cent. As part of this initiative, Co-op has introduced new products from MOTH cocktails, Brewdog, Ciroc, Lucky Saint, and NICE wines, along with a first-to-market canned offering from La Veille Ferme.

Increased demand for recycled aluminium

Many aluminium producers now offer green aluminium products, which contain more recycled aluminium content and are produced using clean energy.  Many recycling companies are increasing their capacities and adopting the best available technologies. Recycled aluminium usage worldwide increased from 27.1 million tonnes in 2022 to 28.3 million tonnes in 2023. Usage is expected to grow to more than 29 million tonnes in 2024

Similarly, downstream suppliers coordinate with their customers to recycle aluminium process scarp in a closed-loop system. New recycling methods are being developed across various countries to improve recovery and reduce power consumption. While demand for recycled aluminium remains mainly from the automobile sector, usage is increasing in other industries, including transportation, building, construction and packaging.