If your SKU needs fewer than ~300,000 aluminum cans and you want designs instead of blank cans, you usually choose between labels, shrink sleeves, and digital printed cans.

Shrink sleeves have long been a favourite - they look cleaner than labels, have low MOQs, and no color restrictions compared to printed cans. But with digital printed cans now offering all the same perks: unlimited colors, even lower MOQs, and a professional look without plastic film - why do shrink sleeves still in the game?

At a glance

When it comes to choosing between labels, shrink sleeves, and digital printed cans, each option has its unique advantages. Labels are easy, familiar, and cost-effective for small runs. Shrink sleeved cans offer full-body, unlimited colours branding. Digital printed cans provide intricate designs and quick changes with the lowest MOQs and no plastic film.

So why haven't they all switched to digital printed cans if they deliver even more?

‍1. Cost-Effectiveness for Mid-Sized Runs
The first thing is money. For mid-sized production runs, shrink sleeved cans hit a sweet spot - more affordable than digital printing for larger quantities but not requiring the high MOQs of printed cans. This makes them a practical choice for many brands.
‍
2.Design Reliability
Shrink sleeved cans are trusted for high-quality vector designs. The consistency and reliability of the design application process give brands confidence that their packaging will look professional and polished every time.
‍
3.Durability and Protection
While the eco-friendliness of shrink sleeves might be a concern due to the plastic film, this film also adds an extra layer of protection. It helps the cans withstand the rigors of filling, pasteurization, and shipping, ensuring that the product reaches the consumer in perfect condition.

4. Established Production Infrastructure
Many production lines are already set up for shrink sleeve application. This means brands can easily find services to apply shrink sleeves without needing to invest in new equipment or processes.

It’s cliché, but every option has its pros and cons. We’re not favoring shrink sleeved cans just because we don’t offer digital printed cans right now—though we’re working on it. Ensuring that our digital printed cans look just as good in customers’ hands after filling, pasteurization, and shipping requires extensive testing.
‍
For now, shrink sleeved cans hit the sweet spot for companies with production needs that fall between not high enough to meet printed cans’ MOQs and too high for digital printing to be cost-effective and time-efficient. Ultimately, it’s all about choosing what makes sense for your needs at the moment.