Beer Cans Market Size – By Material, By Product Type, By Capacity– Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Beer Cans Market Size

The global beer cans market size was valued at USD 13.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at 4.4% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. The beer cans industry is growing due to increasing beer consumption, growth of craft beers and premium beers, and shift towards aluminum for beer packaging.
 

Beer consumption across the world is increasing because of rising disposable income, changing consumer preference. For instance, according to Brewers Association report, U.S. retail dollar sales of craft beer have grown by 3%, totaling USD 28.9 billion. This expansion means craft beer accounted for 24.7% of the overall U.S. beer market. The rise in consumption has, in turn, increased demand for sustainable packaging of beer like packaging of cans because of their recyclability, improved portability and quality preservation of beer. 
 

Increasing demand for craft and premium beers also fuels the demand for can packaging. Craft beer requires high quality packaging as it is a premium segment of beer. Brands are shifting towards can packaging for beer due to the ability of cans to maintain freshness and better protection against light and oxygen. Thus, pushing the demand for cans in beer packaging.
 

Beer cans manufacturers must concentrate on making premium, sustainable, and high-barrier cans to meet the increasing demand for craft and premium beers. Increasing recyclability, better freshness retention, and providing customizable packaging solutions will fuel market growth with rising beer consumption trends.
 

Breweries are shifting towards aluminum cans because of their recyclability, profitability, and sustainability. Aluminum reduces environmental impact and transportation costs compared to glass packaging. For instance, Aluminum Association states that in 2023, 43% of aluminum cans used in U.S. were recycled. This is indicative of the transition towards using aluminum cans for beverages packaging.  
 

Furthermore, aluminum is cheaper to produce than glass and bulk manufacturing capabilities offer scalability in production of cans, reduces the packaging expenses of breweries. Innovations in can design such as nitrogen infused cans and reclosable lids are contributing to the market growth of beer cans.
 

Beer cans manufacturers must focus on cost-efficient and environmentally friendly production of aluminum cans to address the increasing demand for recyclable cans from breweries. Investment in such innovative products as nitrogen-infused cans and reclosable tops will increase product differentiation and contribute to market growth.
 

Beer Cans Market Trends

• The growth of online commerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) beer sales is one of the emerging trends in the packaging of beer. For instance, in July 2024, in India online grocery delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato, are exploring the home delivery of liquor. This creates the demand for easy and convenient shipping packaging solutions like cans. Online channels demand lightweight and rigid packaging, which has made cans an ideal format compared to bottles.
   
• Technologies like nitrogen-filled cans, resealing lids, and digital printing are improving the market for beer cans. Lighter-weight, high-strength advanced aluminum alloys minimize material needs with adequate strength. Intelligent packaging such as QR codes for brand interactions is also improving brand visibility and premium positioning.
   
• Growing consumption of RTD alcoholic drinks is another trend driving the demand for beer cans. Hard seltzers, flavored beers, and beer cocktails are widely packaged in cans because they are light in weight, easy to carry around, and convenient for single-serving consumption. The trend is led by younger consumers in North America and Europe, who prefer easy-to-carry and easy-to-consume drinks.
   
• The premiumization trend within the beer market is fueling demand for distinctive, personalized cans. Premium beers are being packaged in distinctive, limited-edition formats to support brand recognition and consumer interest. For instance, in April 2024, Humane Pennsylvania collaborated with Pagoda City Brewing Company to introduce custom beer can design.
   

Beer Cans Market Analysis

Based on material, the beer cans industry is divided into aluminum and steel.
 

• The aluminum segment is projected to register a significant growth rate of a CAGR 4.8% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to its lightweight nature, high recyclability, and cost efficiency. Also, aluminum cans offer superior barrier against light and oxygen, which helps to preserve the freshness of the beer. Further, aluminum cans reduces the transportation costs, encouraging breweries to adopt aluminum cans.   
   
• The steel segment was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2024, due to its strength and durability. Steel cans are used in markets where cost and strength are important, steel provides a strong and secure packaging solution, particularly in the developing markets. Steel is increasingly being challenged by aluminum, which is lighter in weight and more recyclable.  
   

According to product type, the beer cans market is divided into 1-piece cans, 2-piece cans, and 3-piece cans.
 

• The 1-piece cans segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to its high durable and seamless structure. These cans provide better leak protection and are usually employed for pressurized or nitrogen infused beers. These cans are widely used for premium and specialty beers.  
   
• 2-piece cans market accounted for a market share of 73.4% in 2024. These cans are adopted by large breweries and craft beer producers because of their mass production ability, lower material use, and structural integrity. 2-piece cans also reduce the risk of leak, these factors contributes to the dominance of this segment.  
   
• 3-piece cans market was valued at USD 1.7 billion in 2024. These cans cater to niche market because of their customizable sizing and high pressure resistance. These cans are used by regional breweries where low production cost and manual filling lines makes them suitable option. Also, these cans used in small batch production which supports craft beer expansion.   
   

Based on capacity, the beer cans market is divided into small (below 330 ml), medium (330 ml–500 ml), and large (above 500 ml).
 

• Small (below 330 ml) cans market is projected to register a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period due to the increasing demand for single serve, low calorie, and craft beers. Consumers prefer small portions for health conscious drinking trend is growing, boosting the demand for small beer cans. Small cans are adopted by breweries to track the new product or limited-edition packaging.  
   
• The medium (330 ml–500 ml) sized market accounts for a market share of 63.2% in 2024 due to its widespread availability, standardized size, and affordability. These medium size cans are retail, bar, and e-commerce friendly and are thus well suited for both large producers and microbrewers. They are popular with consumers due to their convenience, and this is propelling the medium sized cans growth.
   
• The large (above 500 ml) segment was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2024. The market for large cans is growing because of rising demand for value packs and high consumptions. They are used by breweries for multipacks, strong beers, and promotional activities. Large cans provide cost savings per volume thus suitable for cost sensitive markets.
   

The North America beer cans market held a market share of 30% in 2024, because of high beer consumption rate, strong demand for craft and premium beers, well established recycling infrastructure for aluminum. Moreover, expanding e-commerce, rising preference for convenience, as well as sustainability initiatives allowed breweries to shift towards lightweight, cost-efficient and eco-friendly can packaging. 
 

• The U.S. market is valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2024. beer cans industry is growing in the U.S. because of high beer consumption, rising craft beer industry, and sustainability initiatives. Breweries are adopting aluminum cans for their cost efficiency, and recyclability. Expansion of beer e-commerce and increasing demand for premium and flavored beer also contributed to market growth.
   
• Canada market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period, because of increasing craft beer production and growth of non-alcohol beers. Consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging and expansion of retail further propel the growth of beer cans in the country.
   

The Europe beer cans market was valued at USD 3.4 billion in 2024. beer cans industry in Europe is growing due to sustainability efforts, shifting consumer demand for convenience and portability, and rising demand for craft beer. Shift from glass to aluminum and steel can packaging is attributed to economic benefits, longer shelf life and on-the-go consumption patterns.
 

• Germany market is valued at USD 1 billion in 2024. German beer can market is expanding due to increasing popularity of craft beer, increased demand for environmentally friendly packaging and shift form glass packaging. Breweries are shifting to aluminum cans because of the convenience and growth in super market sales.
   
• UK market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3%. Increasing demand for on-the-go beverages, growing sales of beers in supermarkets, convenience stores and e-commerce platforms is driving market growth. Brands are shifting to aluminum cans as the demand for craft and premium beers is increasing in the UK.
   
• The market for beer cans in France was valued at 531.6 million in 2024. The beer cans market in France is expanding due to changing drinking habits, increasing beer consumption, and the growth of low-alcohol and flavored beers. Canned beer is on the rise because of expansion on retail and online sales driving the demand for packaging cans.
   
• Italy market was valued at USD 432.9 million in 2024. Market for beer cans in Italy is growing because of craft beer culture, and premiumization trends. The rise in music festivals, outdoor dining, and sports events are driving the growth of portable, unbreakable beer cans. Further, reduced transportation costs and reduced carbon footprint are driving breweries to adopt cans.
   
• Spain market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period. Spain's off-trade beer sales, beer tourism, and outdoor drinking culture are driving the market for beer cans. Cans are affordable, recyclable, and resilient and thus a greener option for Spain's sustainability goals.
   

The Asia Pacific beer cans market is estimated grow significantly to reach to USD 8 by 2034. Rising disposable income, increasing urbanization, and changing consumption patterns are driving the market for beer cans. Furthermore, expansion of craft beers and premium beer brands and penetration of online beer sales is driving the demand for affordable and lightweight packaging such as cans for beer in the region.
 

• China beer cans industry is projected to reach at USD 3.3 billion by 2034, owing to urbanization, expansion of imported craft beers, and consumer transition towards ready to drink beverages.
  Additionally, the government's efforts towards sustainability and recycling programs are fueling demand for sustainable packaging, and hence making cans an appropriate choice for breweries.   
   
• Beer cans industry in India is anticipated to register a CAGR of 7.9% during 2025-2034. India beer can market is growing because of rapid urbanization, youth demographics, and growing disposable income. Demand for non-alcoholic and low-alcoholic beverages, convenience packaging, and eco-friendly products is fueling demand for cans. The convenience of cans in terms of portability, longer shelf life, and heat protection provides them as the best option in the climate of India.
   
• Japan beer cans market was valued at USD 711.4 million in 2024. Japan beer can market is growing because of innovative design technology, rising consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beers, and premiumization. Japan's stringent recycling laws and sustainability emphasis encourages breweries to use eco-friendly aluminum cans. The limited-edition and seasonal craft beers trend also increases demand for specialty beer cans.
   
• South Korea market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period. South Korea beer can market is growing because of the rise in off-trade consumption, westernization trends, and preference for convenience.  Craft breweries and local beer brands are switching to cans for freshness and convenience. The government's promotion of sustainable packaging solutions is also driving the growth of cans.
   
• ANZ market is projected to reach at USD 704.6 million by 2034. The ANZ market is fueled by demand for outdoor and festival packages that are easy to carry. Craft and premium beers have spurred higher consumption of cans, which help maintain the freshness of beers. Both countries' strong recycling cultures make aluminum cans sustainable and popular among consumers.
   

Latin America beer cans market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period. The growth of the beer cans industry in Latin America is attributed to the increasing consumption of beer due to urbanization and expansion of middle class population. Additionally, development of local breweries are driving the use of cans as they are cost-effective and durable packaging option for beer. 
 

• Brazil market is projected to reach at USD 448 million by 2034. Brazil's beer can industry is growing due to rising beer consumption, affordability of cans, and consumer preference for lager packs. Large breweries and domestic brands are adopting cans for their affordability.
   
• Mexico beer cans is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period. The market in Mexico is rising due to increasing export of beers, premiumization, and craft beer trends. The nation exports considerable volumes of beer to the United States, Canada, and Europe, driving the demand for high-efficiency, light, affordable, and cost-saving packaging forms like aluminum cans.
   

MEA market is projected to reach USD 605.7 million by 2034. The rise in beer cans market in the MEA region is attributed to changing demography, increasing demand for non-alcoholic beers, and changing alcohol consumption habits. In Africa, hot climate drives the demand for easy to chill, lightweight, and durable beer cans.
 

• Saudi Arabia BMS market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. Changing regulation on alcohol in the country and increasing demand for non-alcoholic flavored beers are contributing to the growth of the beer cans industry in Saudi Arabia. 
   
• South Africa market was valued at USD 193.7 in 2024. South Africa’s beer cans industry is growing due to high beer consumption, affordability, and increasing sustainability awareness. Aluminum cans are preferred over glass because they are cheaper, easier to transport, and widely recyclable. Additionally, the growth of craft breweries, rising popularity of ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, and increasing retail distribution networks are driving the adoption of beer cans.
   

• Beer cans industry in UAE is projected to reach USD 113.3 million by 2034. The UAE's market is expanding due to tourism, expat population, and premium beer segment. Relaxation in consumption of alcohol and luxury hotels, restaurants, and events are fueling demand for premium and craft beers in cans. Environment-friendly initiatives and growth in high-end hotels are also fueling the demand for lightweight, portable, and eco-friendly packaging.
   

Beer Cans Market Share

The beer cans industry is highly competitive. Top 5 players in the market are Ardagh Group, Ball Corporation, Crown Holdings, Nampak, and Toyo Seikan. These companies hold a share of over 25% in the market. Ball Corporation, Crown Holdings, and Ardagh Group are dominating owing to their international presence, state-of-the-art manufacturing, and robust distribution networks. All these players spend heavily on sustainability, lightweight can technology, and innovative packaging solutions, providing them a competitive advantage.
 

Regional players such as Toyo Seikan and Nampak specialize in low-cost manufacturing and geographical expansion in domestic markets, which serves particular local requirements. Competitions become intense with breweries demanding customized premium can designs, causing manufacturers to introduce high-definition printing, special coatings, and one-of-a-kind can designs in order to distinguish their offerings.
 

As concerns for sustainable packaging increase, businesses are competing to create recyclable and lighter-weight aluminum cans that meet regulatory requirements and sustainability targets. Furthermore, strategic collaborations with breweries, capacity expansion investments, and innovations in smart packaging technologies are defining competition within the market for beer cans.
 

Ball Corporation is a leading player in beer cans market, company's strategies involves international growth, sustainability, and packaging innovation. For instance, in July 2024, Ball Beverage Packaging made a USD 8 million investment to open a new manufacturing unit in Telangana, India. The company is also going to provide cans for Coca-Cola's new bottling facility in Peddapalli district, further cementing its focus on emerging markets growth and strategic collaborations.
 

Ardagh Group is one of the leaders in the business of beer can production, having 23 metal beverage can production sites across nine nations. The Group focuses on sustainability and innovation in the market. It has more than 6,000 employees and its estimated sales for 2023 totaling approximately USD 4.3 billion. Its large global presence enables the firm to address increased demand for environmentally friendly packaging solutions while offering tailored solutions for craft and premium beer segments.
 

Beer Cans Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the beer cans industry include:

• Ardagh Group
• Asahi Group
• Baixicans
• Ball
• Canpack
• Ceylon Beverage Can
• Crown
• Daiwa Can
• Erjin Packaging
• G3 Enterprises
• Hainan Zhenxi
• Nampak
• Orora Packaging
• Scan Holdings
• Shining Aluminum
• Thai Beverage Can
• Toyo Seikan
• Visy
   

Beer Cans Industry News

• In December 2024, The Lviv Brewery launched their Lvivske Rizdvyane winter beer in a limited-edition packaging made by CANPACK, which employs the company’s DUOMIX print technology that allows two different designs to be produced in the same colorways in a one production run. The company had been providing specialized services for premium and craft beer brands.
   
• In March 2024, Canpack and United Dutch Breweries have collaborated to launch limited edition 330 ml aluminum can for Royal Dutch Premium Lager. This can uses the Canpack's Quadromix technology, up to four different designs can be printed in the same production run, creating collectible editions and enhancing brand uniqueness.
   
• In June 2023, Ball Corporation exhibited its newest aluminum can and bottle lineup at the BevNET Live Summer 2023 conference. The exhibition featured new supply locations for 6.8 oz, 8.4 oz, and 250 mL can sizes and their proprietary Alumi-Tek aluminum bottles. The company also sponsored the BevNET Live Official Happy Hour during the conference, inviting guests to visit and learn about the newest beverage packaging innovations.
   

The beer cans market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) & volume (Units) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Material

• Aluminum
• Steel

Market, Product Type

• 1-piece cans
• 2-piece cans
• 3-piece cans

Market, By Capacity

• Small (below 330 ml)
• Medium (330 ml – 500 ml)
• Large (above 500 ml)

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin Americ 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE