W. Amsler launches PET barrier container with handle

W. Amsler Equipment Inc., a leading supplier of all-electric linear PET stretch blow molders, has announced the launch of a new 64-oz polyethylene terephthalate (PET) growler jug that mimics the competitive glass design and provides barrier protection for extended shelf life.

The PET container is believed to be one of the first in the industry to include a handle and provide barrier protection.

The amber PET container is manufactured by W. Amsler at its Bolton, Ontario, facility on behalf of JMS International Packaging, a leading packaging solutions provider, on a W. Amsler all-electric linear series stretch blow molder. The PET barrier container weighs 106 grams versus 1.2 kg for the glass version, thus resulting in reduced shipping costs.

It is also event-friendly, unbreakable, and 100% recyclable, according to Heidi Amsler, sales and marketing manager for W. Amsler. A growler is a jug commonly sold at breweries and brew pubs as a means to sell take-out craft beer. The significant growth of craft breweries and the growing popularity of home brewing have also led to an emerging market for the sale of growlers.

“We’re proud to be part of this highly collaborative effort that has resulted in a breakthrough in PET barrier containers for the craft beer market,” said Amsler. “We’ve set a new benchmark in terms of shelf life and provided craft brewers a highly viable alternative to the standard glass container.”

Unbreakable and portable PET growlers provide an entry into such venues that do not allow glass because of the potential for breakage and other security requirements.

The 64-oz, 106-gram container was designed by W. Amsler with standard preforms supplied by Preform Solutions Inc., Sioux Falls, S.D. The PET growlers have a flat champagne base rather than a carbonated base design and withstand 15 psi of pressure.