The International Organisation of Aluminium Aerosol Container Manufacturers (AEROBAL) stages the World Aluminium Aerosol Can Award every year. This year’s competition was quite exciting. There was a panel of judges made up of experienced editors and journalists from renowned industry media all around the globe. After their votes were counted, the outcome was clear: In the category “Aluminium cans already on the market”, there were two winners this year. The two cans “TAG Body Spray” from the American producer CCL and the anti-transpirant of Ball Corporation (USA) for the Men Expert Series from L’Oréal tied for first place honours. “TACTILE”, another aluminium can produced by Ball, emerged as the winner in the category “Prototype”.
AEROBAL Secretary General Gregor Spengler was highly satisfied with this year’s competition: “First of all, it was gratifying that such a large number of aluminium aerosol cans were submitted to the competition. This participation shows the high level of acceptance and esteem our members feel for the AEROBAL Award, which they use to document their powers of innovation. Beyond that, the numerous prototypes in the competition demonstrate the diverse and exciting possibilities this packaging opens up in the global packaging markets of the future. Not least, the close outcome of the race with a tie for first place also shows the great breadth of quality at the top international level that our members deliver in fierce competition and their constant commitment to the further development of aluminium aerosol cans.”
One of the two winners in the category “Aluminium cans already on the market” is produced by the American manufacturer CCL. In the recent relaunch of the TAG Body Spray by MY Import USA LLC, a customized and environmentally friendly design moved to the forefront. Particularly compelling technical features were the aligned splined sections of the can along with the recessed form area which is contoured to allow the “TAG” brand to be printed within the shape. This innovative design lends the can its exclusivity in shape and style. It makes for an eye-catching presence at the point of sale, which is further heightened by the striking coloured elements in the design. This can is an exceptionally successful example of how to create a distinctive product identity. At the same time, this unique can design makes product counterfeiting substantially more difficult. The panel of judges was enthusiastic, too: “A great size and so handy. A wonderful design and a genuine eye-catcher.”
The other winning can in this category was manufactured by Ball Corporation from the United States. The company used an innovative ReAl technology in making the new “L’Oréal Men Expert Antiperspirant” can. This advanced technology enables cans with more complex shapes to be produced. At the same time, it paves the way for the use of higher percentages of recycled materials and for greater potential to reduce weight. The winning can with its characteristic shape and flat shoulder is convincing in its aesthetics and its comfortable ergonomic fit. It is a real standout on the shelf with its interplay of graphic design and its bold, prominent orange colouring. The panel of judges agreed: “Excellent visual presence thanks to the colour scheme, shape and finish. Ergonomically designed for easy handling. In addition, it has potential for further weight reduction.”
Ball also chalked up a victory in the category “Prototype”, where the US company won with its “Tactile” aluminium can. The prototype impressively shows the possibilities of a fascinating technology known as tactile or raised ink. With the special surface texture of the can, consumers enjoy a distinct and memorable product experience when grabbing hold of the can and forge an emotional tie to the brand. These tactile patterns and structures can be applied 360° around the can. There are almost no limits to creative imagination and design and marketing possibilities for all sorts of product or application. The snake motif is impressive with its characteristic reptile skin texture as well as its visually appealing colouring. It is also possible to create honeycomb structures or replicate the surfaces of citrus fruits. The panel of judges found this idea to be very promising: “Today’s consumers are looking for new ways to have innovative and interesting experiences with brands and the worlds they are associated with. And this can offers a dual sensory experience: wonderful graphics of the highest printing quality and a surprising and unique feel on touching the can.”
