Ardagh Group, Glass – North America, a division of Ardagh Group, is now manufacturing 12oz flint (clear) glass bottles in the U.S., for Sprecher Brewing Company’s new sparkling water product line.

Seltzer/sparkling/mineral water is the fastest-growing segment of the water market and one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic beverages in the U.S. According to Mintel, sales of sparkling water are forecasted to grow 74 percent from 2018 to 2023.

With increased consumer interest in sparkling water, companies are responding by launching new sparkling water brands and products. It was important to Sprecher Brewing Company to utilise glass packaging to create brand differentiation with a premium, sustainable package.

“Ardagh Group’s high-quality, attractive flint glass bottle is a key component of the high-end, above premium positioning for Sprecher’s line of all-natural sparkling waters,” said Jeff Hamilton, President of Sprecher Brewing Company. “The glass bottle provides a vessel that locks in the freshness of the beverage, with the neck acting as an aroma reservoir. Upon opening and prior to drinking, consumers experience all the natural aromatics characteristic of each flavour.”

Milwaukee’s original craft brewery recently launched its all-natural line of sparkling waters at Menards, Festival Foods and Stein’s Garden & Home. The product line includes eight flavours – Fresh Cut Mango, Ripe Strawberry, Cool Cucumber, Valencia Orange, Lime Royale, Tropical Resort, Strawberry Basil and Red Raspberry – with 0 carbs, 0 calories, 0 sodium and 0 sugar. These sparkling waters also provide a flavourful option for spirits mixers.

“After manufacturing amber (brown) glass bottles for their beers and craft sodas for a number of years, Ardagh is honoured to manufacture this new glass packaging for Sprecher Brewing Company’s premium line of sparkling waters,” said John T Shaddox, Chief Commercial Officer for Ardagh Group’s North American Glass division. “The glass bottle preserves product integrity, has beautiful shelf appeal and is 100 percent and endlessly recyclable.”

Ardagh Group is dedicated to the craft beverage market with capabilities and resources to grow with brands every step of the way.