top of page
Search

Printed vs. Sleeved Cans: Which Is Right for Your Brand?

  • katy9453
  • Aug 7
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 4

Variety of printed, labelled, and sleeved cans

Choosing the Right Can Packaging: Printed, Sleeved, or Labelled?

In the competitive world of beverage packaging, the can is more than just a container - it’s a branding powerhouse. From craft brewers to health beverage startups, every decision about your can packaging affects your market presence, production timeline, and bottom line. One of the biggest decisions brands face is choosing between printed cans, shrink-sleeved cans, or labelled cans.

 

Each option has its advantages depending on your run size, number of SKUs, and brand strategy. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences, helping you choose the best solution for your business.

 

Option 1: Printed Cans

What are they? Printed cans are pre-decorated at the manufacturing stage. Your artwork is applied directly to the aluminum using high-speed printing technology.

 

Benefits:

  • Premium Look: High-end appearance and durability

  • No Adhesives or Labels: Streamlined production process

  • Excellent for Large Volumes: Most cost-effective for high quantity runs

 

Considerations:

  • Longer Lead Times: Printed cans typically require longer production windows

  • Higher Minimum Orders: Not cost-effective for small runs or brands with multiple SKUs

  • Less Flexibility: Once printed, changes aren’t easy to make

 

Best for: Established beverage brands with a few SKUs and high production volumes.

 

Option 2: Shrink-Sleeved Cans

What are they? Shrink sleeves are printed plastic sleeves that are heat-shrunk to wrap the entire can. They offer 360° branding coverage and excellent colour fidelity.

 

Benefits:

  • Low Minimums: Great for small and mid-sized runs

  • Multiple SKUs: Ideal for seasonal releases and frequent design changes

  • Fast Turnaround: Quicker than printed cans in many cases

  • Vibrant Graphics: High-quality finish with photo-realistic detail

 

Considerations:

  • Not Curbside Recyclable (as-is): The sleeve must be removed for full recyclability

  • Heat Sensitivity: Not ideal for high-temperature environments unless properly engineered

 

Best for: Craft brewers, RTD’s, boutique beverage brands, seasonal or promotional SKUs, and test launches.

 

Option 3: Labelled Cans

What are they? Labelled cans involve applying a printed pressure-sensitive label directly to a blank can.

 

Benefits:

  • Maximum Flexibility: Easy to update or switch labels

  • Lowest MOQ: Perfect for startups or local launches

  • Speed to Market: Fastest to produce and apply

 

Considerations:

  • Lower Perceived Value: May not appear as premium on shelf

  • Durability: Labels can peel or scratch more easily than printed or sleeved options

 

Best for: Startups, prototypes, and limited-run beverages.

 

What to Consider When Choosing Your Can Packaging

Choosing between printed, sleeved, and labelled cans depends on several factors:

  1. Volume & Order Size: Large runs favour printed cans, while small to mid-size runs benefit from sleeving or labelling.

  2. Number of SKUs: If you need to package multiple flavours or styles, shrink sleeves or labels offer the flexibility you need.

  3. Shelf Appeal: Printed and sleeved cans offer better visual impact for retail environments.

  4. Lead Time: Sleeving and labelling often have faster turnarounds than printed cans.

  5. Budget: Initial setup costs are higher for printed cans, but lower per unit. Sleeves and labels are more economical for low volume.

  6. Sustainability: Printed cans are fully recyclable. Sleeves and labels may need removal before recycling.

 

Why Packaging Partners Matter

Having a reliable packaging partner makes all the difference. From designing your artwork to delivering fully finished cans, a one-stop solution saves you time, money, and logistical headaches.

 

KinsBrae Packaging offers:

 

With in-house capabilities, industry expertise, and flexible ordering options, we can help you scale your packaging solution to match your brand’s growth.

 

Final Verdict: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All

Each can packaging format has its strengths. Printed cans offer durability and a high-end look, shrink sleeves provide flexibility and stunning visuals, and labels are ideal for quick, low-volume runs.

 

Think carefully about your production volume, marketing strategy, and sustainability goals. By aligning your packaging choice with your business model, you can enhance your brand image and maximize ROI.

 

Need help choosing the right option?

Reach out to KinsBrae Packaging to discuss your can packaging needs, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your brand.



 
 
bottom of page