The Glass Packaging Institute (GPI), the trade association representing America’s glass packaging manufacturers, celebrates the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)’s decision to approve the use of glass containers for spirits-based products across all approved sizes, including the popular 355ml (12-ounce) size. Effective January 10th, this regulatory milestone reflects a significant step forward for consumer choice, industry innovation, and fair competition in the beverage alcohol marketplace.
“This decision marks a pivotal moment for consumers, the glass packaging industry and the broader spirits market,” said Scott DeFife, President of GPI. “The TTB’s decision to modernize older regulations that had previously limited packaging options for certain spirits-based products, acknowledges the importance of innovation, consumer choice, and environmental sustainability. It ensures a level playing field for all packaging materials. This ruling will allow domestic glass manufacturers to serve this growing market.”
Historically, the 355ml size for spirits-based products was restricted to metal or aluminum containers. GPI and its member companies had long advocated for elimination of this restriction, which hindered glass manufacturers’ ability to compete and limited brands' packaging options. Glass containers, renowned for their durability, recyclability, and premium aesthetic, may now offer spirits producers a core packaging size option that aligns with consumer preferences and environmental goals, as well as allowing them to distinguish their products on the shelf.
The demand for spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails has surged in recent years, with sales increasing by 226% between 2016 and 2021. The TTB’s updated standards of fill (SOF) will enable producers to better meet this growing demand by offering their products in glass containers, a material that not only distinguishes brands but also contributes to reducing consumer confusion between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
GPI also commends the TTB for recognizing the need for packaging flexibility across other fill sizes, including 187ml and 250ml, ensuring that glass containers can serve the needs of spirits producers at all future approved capacities.
“We applaud the TTB and the Treasury Department for fostering a competitive marketplace that supports innovation and sustainability,” added DeFife. “There was widespread bipartisan support for this decision, and we appreciate that the agency took the time to investigate these issues and remove the restrictions for spirits-based products to benefit from the unique qualities of glass packaging.”
GPI extends its gratitude to the TTB and the Department of the Treasury for considering the voices of manufacturers, brands, and consumers in making this forward-thinking decision.
For more information about GPI and the benefits of glass packaging, visit www.gpi.org.