Our Life in an Aerosol Can

When the first aerosol can was launched early in the 20th century, no one could have predicted the impact it would have on modern consumers. Today, the format has become a key part of our everyday lives. Whether it is the personal hygiene products we use in the morning, or the insect repellents we use during the warm summer months, consumers and brands alike have embraced the numerous ways that aerosol products have made their lives better.

But what exactly is the secret to the aerosol can’s success? Almost 100 years since its creation, aerosol packaging is firmly ingrained in the consumer’s purchasing psyche. Let’s start with the impact aerosol cans have at the point of sale, as that is where consumers first experience a brand. Several significant advances have been made in the areas of shaping and decorating, so products packaged in aerosol containers attract the eye and encourage the shopper to reach out and grab them. In addition to the visual aspect, aerosol cans offer a unique tactile experience through soft touch and metallic finishes. Finally, shaped cans open up a whole new dimension of creative packaging for manufacturers, with the ability to add physical contours, ridges and bumps to bring a product’s branding to life.

Having won the battle at the store shelf, aerosol cans also conquer another critical area: functionality. Available in a range of diameters and heights, aerosol cans are easy to grip and require little effort to use. Shaping can further enhance this aspect and improve the overall ergonomics of the package. Consumers have also grown to rely on aerosol packaging to dispense product cleanly and accurately and to minimize waste.

Aerosol packaging also wins over the modern consumer seeking more sustainable product options. Metal cans are 100% recyclable and infinitely recyclable, meaning it can be reused again and again with no degradation in quality or performance.

As a complete package, the metal aerosol can is hard to beat in terms of benefits and value to the entire supply chain. It is little wonder it is due to see in its centenary and we would expect it to retain its popularity for another 100 years and beyond.