This Aluminum Bud is For You

Anheuser-Busch Cos., St. Louis, is planning a national rollout of Budweiser in aluminum bottles for the month of May, according to a report in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The 16-ounce aluminum containers (far right) have previously been used for the company’s Michelob family of beers, but the flagship Budweiser brand will get its turn this spring.

On a unit basis, the containers cost more to make than glass bottles, but the brewing company is hopeful the distinct aluminum bottle will to catch the attention of Budweiser drinkers at clubs and bars.

Anheuser-Busch has thus far done only limited test marketing of the Budweiser aluminum bottles, while also using them for their Michelob, Michelob Light and Anheuser World Select brands.

The new aluminum bottles will be offered in bars, restaurants and clubs as well as at some convenience stores. They are now being introduced nationally, according to the Anheuser-Busch Web site.

“Our new aluminum bottles gives consumers what they want — cool packaging to complement their image and style,” Rick Leininger, director, Michelob Brands, said regarding the new containers for that brand family. “This sleek and sophisticated bottle fills the need for beer drinkers in certain settings like upscale bars and clubs.”

Aluminum, as a material, should also keep the product cooler for a longer period of time, according to the company.