Graphic Packaging International creates KeelClip solution for cans

Graphic Packaging International (GPI) has developed a new can packaging solution that it says offers sustainability and merchandising benefits.

Called KeelClip, the paperboard packaging works on a range of can styles and sizes, and in multiple product configurations.

The solution, which completely covers can tops to keep them clean, features finger holes to allow for easy carrying.

“KeelClip is preferred to other can packaging options due to sustainability, brand positioning and high-speed application advantages. That’s a game-changer,” said GPI executive vice president and Americas president, Joe Yost.

“It’s a product that was engineered with sustainability in mind. It also serves our customers with more branding options and, even better, it provides their consumers with an improved user experience and a product they can feel good about using.”

Bud Light cans in the UK will feature the packaging as of March 2020.

Steve Gould, GPI’s new product development and marketing director, beverage division, Europe, said: “We also made sure that while the cans are secure in the package for transport, they can be easily removed for the consumer to enjoy without frustration. Finally, when the last can is removed, KeelClip can be tossed right in the recycling bin.”

AB InBev will be one the first to commercialise KeelClip. As of March 2020, the brewer’s Bud Light cans in the UK will feature the packaging.

“As one of the largest can users in the world, with best-selling brands like Stella Artois and Budweiser, the circular packaging solutions we take on must be scalable and efficient to keep up with demand,” said Elise Dickinson, head of innovation for Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, part of AB InBev.

“The KeelClip technology will allow us to produce up to 2,000 cans per minute in sustainable, recyclable paperboard. We will be reconfiguring our entire canning production lines in the UK to introduce this machinery and expand overall paperboard packaging capacity so that we can ensure all plastic rings are eliminated.”