Craft Beer Packaging Labels
The growth of the craft beer market has been steadily increasing as small, independent brewers saw a 6% rise in volume and accounted for more than 12% market share in the beer industry in 2016, according to an annual report by the Brewers Association (BA). Michigan has over 200 breweries and counting, ranking as the sixth-largest market in the nation for craft beer. With this knowledge and our proven capabilities in some of the most challenging markets, we knew the right time to hop into this market!
Like trying anything for the first time, entering a new market can be fun, exciting, and present unexpected challenges. We collaborated with Avery Dennison, a global leader in pressure-sensitive label materials and functional solutions, to help with this venture. Several Whitlam team members from Sales, Marketing, and Graphic Arts met with highly skilled professionals at Avery Dennison’s Mentor, Ohio, facility. During our meeting, we discussed label materials and goals for the next 30-60-90 days and gathered in their design and showcase room to brainstorm different thoughts and concepts, which they call an “Ideation Session.” We left there with a great sense of direction and a game plan to dive into this new market.
Fast forward to today, 30 days after our Avery Dennison session, and we have already completed our 90-day goal!
We partnered with a local brewery in Rochester Hills and are producing their seasonal craft beer labels for Halloween and Christmas. We are incredibly proud of this success in such a short time, and it has reassured us that this is a market we want to be a part of.
All of us at Whitlam have been working hard to ensure that we have the materials, design capabilities, and the ability to answer any of our customers’ questions regarding the craft beer market. If you would like to learn more, click the link below!
Craft Beer Label Trends to Watch in 2024
As a label solutions leader we’re always on top of the trends to help breweries stand out. This year it’s all about storytelling and sustainability. Minimalist designs with bold, clean typography are still popular, so breweries can showcase their personality without overwhelming the consumer.
Illustrative artwork and hand drawn elements are also hot right now, to help brands show authenticity and creativity. And sustainability is top of the list. Labels made from eco friendly materials like recycled paper or compostable film appeal to the environmentally conscious consumer and the craft beer enthusiast.
Interactive labels, incorporating QR codes or augmented reality, are another trend to watch, enabling breweries to engage customers with behind-the-scenes content or pairing suggestions. Need a label partner that’s ahead of the curve? We specialize in creating standout labels that align with your brand and resonate with your audience.
One response to “Entering the Craft Beer Market”
Posted by Edward Shaieb.
Nice job.Working hard and as a committee can get results proven rather quickly.
Posted on November 1, 2017 at 5:47 PM