Beer Blog Series: A Beer Store Alternative?

Creative Packaging_edited-2No matter how you slice it, the consumer packaged goods industry is incredibly competitive, and when it comes to beer, this is no different. This final blog in our beer blog series focuses on the often controversial issue of a beer store alternative, brought about due to the difficulties surrounding craft brewers’ ability to make their way into the realm that is Ontario liquor sales.

This recent article from the Financial Post pretty much sums it up: http://business.financialpost.com/2014/07/04-why-ontario-craft-beer-makers-want-a-beer-store-alternative/.

If you are as yet unaware of this often controversial issue, according to the article, craft brewers can sell their own beer, but only in their own retail space, and only if that space is attached to the brewery. This can make options for potential sales limited, as well as the growth of the brand.

Based on a decades old tradition, the Beer Store and LCBO do sell mainly the big brands, but are finding that craft beer sales have risen dramatically over the past few years (by 575% between the 2006 and 2013). But they are still playing catch up – the market share by volume sold was only 3% as of a year ago – so there are still hurdles for smaller breweries.

So, if you are lucky enough to make it to Beer Store or LCBO shelves, how can you compete? By thinking outside the box. Eye-catching, creative packaging can not only differentiate you from your competitors, it can also create a buzz – which can mean a huge boost in sales. The right design team can help you develop a strategy that attracts attention, thereby garnering the sales that make all the difference.

What is your take on this issue?

For more about competing in an increasingly competitive market, please contact PTI today by calling 1-800-303-5883 or visit us online at www.ptibox.com.

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PTI designs and manufactures high impact graphic corrugated containers and Point-of-Purchase displays. Our talented design team combined with our award winning pre-printed boxes will make your product stand out from the crowd at retail.