Fritz-Kola is expanding its packaging portfolio: Following a pilot phase in Hamburg, the Hamburg-based beverage company is introducing the 0.33-litre can nationwide from the second quarter of 2026. The move is intended to create additional availability where reusable glass is reaching its practical limits, while reusable continues to be the focus of the packaging strategy.
Fritz-Kola is launching parts of its range in 0.33-litre cans on the German market for the first time. After a four-week test phase in the Hamburg retail and convenience sector, the can will be rolled out nationwide from the second quarter of 2026. According to the company, five flavours will then also be available in cans throughout Germany: Fritz-Kola Original, Fritz-Kola Super Zero, Fritz-Kola Classic light, Mischmasch and Fritz-Limo Orange.
According to Fritz-Kola, the introduction of the can is a reaction to changing return rates and usage situations. While returnable glass continues to be the preferred packaging solution, can returns are more stable in certain markets and areas of application. The returnable glass system is currently reaching its limits, particularly at events, festivals or in areas where glass is banned.
Reusable packaging remains a central element of the packaging strategy
The company emphasises that the can is not intended to replace the existing reusable system. Returnable glass remains the centrepiece of the packaging strategy. Fritz-Kola is continuing to invest in modern reusable systems and in functioning take-back and recycling structures. The aim is to use packaging solutions where they are most effective from an ecological and practical point of view.
According to Fritz-Kola, the company has favoured returnable glass since its foundation and is committed to stable deposit systems. The introduction of the can is seen as a complementary step towards making the company's own products available in situations where glass packaging cannot be used.
Results from the Hamburg pilot project
The can pilot was launched in December 2025 in selected districts of Hamburg, including St. Pauli and Sternschanze. Five varieties from the portfolio were available there for several weeks alongside the glass containers in 0.33-litre cans. According to the company, the experience gained from the test run formed the basis for the decision to roll out nationwide.
With the national introduction of the can from 2026, Fritz-Kola is expanding its packaging range, but is sticking to its long-term goal of strengthening and further expanding functioning reusable cycles.
Source: Fritz-Kola
