Ogeu commits to cans across brands

Published June 21, 2021

Leading French beverage group Ogeu is taking a significant step into growing markets by investing in a brand-new filling line: a major facility that will see an impressive range of Ogeu’s household-name brands packaged in cans for the first time. Having chosen Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMP) as their partner on the journey into large-scale can production, the venerable Société des eaux minérales d’Ogeu will be able to fill 15cl slim, 25cl slim, 33cl sleek and standard and 50cl standard cans across an enormous range of its beverages in multiple categories: alcoholic and non-alcoholic, sparkling and still, and even the most delicate products such as wine-based drinks.

Investing in its own filling line represents Ogeu’s commitment to making cans a key packaging option across its brands, and means the group can reach more consumers who appreciate the option of canned versions of their favourite products. The new facility will also see Ogeu entering novel and exciting markets such as hard seltzers, energy drinks and canned teas.

Among the very first products to come off the new line are two eye-catching energy drinks, Truc de Fou and Breizh Elixir, as well as a pair of canned teas: Thé Noir Pèche (peach-flavoured black tea) and Thé Vert Menthe (green tea with mint), released under the group’s popular water brand Quézac. Meanwhile, Ogeu has launched Alqua as its first entry into the trendy and fast-growing hard seltzer sector, and the new filling line will package all three Alqua flavours – lemon/lime, mango/pineapple, and raspberry – in a sleek 33cl format can with fresh fruit-inspired colours and a clean, contemporary design.

The long history of the company, founded in 1820 but still family-owned, underlines its dedication to quality and to brand-strengthening investments. Mathieu Lignac, Marketing Director at Ogeu, said “Cans are modern, convenient and an ecological choice, which is why we see this investment in beverage cans as a huge positive step forward. Considering all Ardagh’s experience, they were the natural partner for us as we move into this exciting new market.”

Dirk Schwung, Sales Director at Ardagh Metal Packaging – Europe, said “We are thrilled to enter this partnership with a renowned group like Ogeu. It’s gratifying to see this major player make such a definitive commitment to Ardagh cans, now and for the future.”

Production began in April 2021 and cans from the line are available widely across French supermarkets, other domestic retail, and selected export countries, with some brands also offering home delivery. Further international export is planned.