Packaging alcoholic beverages

Abstract Packaging for distilled spirits is commonly quite traditional in its format, processes, and materials used. Glass bottles with resealable closures are the most recognised vessels for whisky as they best meet the purpose of packaging to contain, preserve, and protect the product. The distilled spirits global industry is at 190$ billion in economic activity with revenue growth up to 5.3% in 2019. As brands continue to want to differentiate, they explore design enhancements, innovative technologies, and sustainable initiatives that help convert a consumer purchase decision. This chapter begins with an exploration of the current and new emerging packaging formats for distilled spirits. Visual innovations that are aiding in competitive advantages such as shape, embossing or etching, labelling, customisation, and printing innovations follow. Intelligent packaging considerations such as anti-counterfeiting technologies, interactive user-experience promotions, and accessibility considerations specific to the category are discussed. Lastly, the chapter concludes with a section on packaging sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and the efforts in the industry to support an overall circular economy.