S27 Alehouse & Brewery brings to notice the struggle of US brewers for aluminium can shortage

Lucas Szymanowski, the co-founder of S27 Alehouse & Brewery in San Jose, California, has talked about the unavailability of aluminium cans to package craft beer. In his words, "Cans have been the biggest problem for us.”

Brewers across the United States are facing aluminium can shortage, which started in the spring of 2020 when the COVID-19 was in full swing leading to the closure of many bars and restaurants. Thus, more and more people were drinking at home, which drove up the demand for aluminium cans. Other beverage products were also seeking cans for packaging, but there were not enough to go around, says Bart Watson, chief economist at the Brewers Association.

Since supply chains were affected by the COVID-19, there were delivery delays. But the need for cans was unwavering. According to the Aluminum Association, domestic demand for aluminum cans was five per cent higher in the first quarter of 2022.

Lucas Szymanowski has also said that waiting period for aluminium can pallets has increased, along with the price per pallet. "When we order aluminum cans, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000 that has to be spent because the cans are available in that moment," says Szymanowski.

However, the table is turning around, with supplies improving slowly. "Prices are going to remain high, but availability, hopefully, will improve. We're starting to see again more capacity coming online, which will help," says Bart Watson.

In this context, Szymanowski has said brewers are helping each other and updating if any stock is available around. This will continue to weather the challenges of can shortage together.