Can Makers announces support for ICWC

The Can Makers, the industry trade body representing drinks can manufacturers in the UK, has confirmed its partnership with the third International Canned Wine Competition (ICWC) to be held in July 2021, California.

It follows significant growth in the category with an increasing number of premium brands adopting the can as their preferred packaging format or launching new wines exclusively in cans. According to market data analyst, Nielsen, canned wine volume sales have quadrupled in the UK since 2018, from £2.5m to £10.7m in 2020.

Simon Gresty, Can Makers chairman, said: “The beverage can industry is maximising its productivity. Where significant growth was already being recorded, the shift from keg to can, driven by ongoing restrictions affecting the hospitality industry, has seen demand for cans rise to record levels.

“At the same time, the convenience wine in cans offers for consumers and the opportunity for brand differentiation have been widely recognised by the industry. And it’s very satisfying to see new, high quality brands like The Copper Crew and The Uncommon, choosing the can for its sustainability credentials – the beverage can is the most recycled drinks packaging format in the world.

“Recognising the quality and variety of wines available today in a can, I am pleased therefore to confirm the Can Makers sponsorship of ICWC 2021.”

Dennis Doorakkers, ICWC co-founder and international ambassador, said: “Wines from all over the world are set to be entered in the competition and will be judged by panel of consumers, buyers and other wine industry professionals. Registration is open now and will close on 10^th July.”

Previous winners of the ICWC include the Erosion Wine Co. from Napa which took home five gold medals and a package design award as well as The Uncommon which received four gold medals, the brand’s series also winning package design recognition for its distinctive illustrations.

To find out more about ICWC including how to enter the competition, please go to: https://cannedwinecompetition.com/