Milk in glass

Owens-Illinois has released results of new consumer research that shows Australian consumers would seriously consider buying their milk in glass bottles if it was back on the shelves. The research commissioned by O-I and conducted by Ipsos Australia showed 50% of all white milk buyers and 51% of flavoured milk buyers found the concept of milk packaged in glass bottles appealing. The study also revealed 42% of white milk buyers and 28% of flavoured milk buyers believed milk would taste better in glass versus other packaging types.

O-I conducted the research to examine the habits of Australian milk buyers and the attitudes of consumers towards milk packaged in glass bottles. Availability of milk in glass is currently limited but O-I believes it is on the verge of a comeback. Other key research findings included:

Brian Slingsby, General Manager O-I Australia, said the research identified increasing consumer desire for more milk to be packaged in glass. “Australians love a comeback and we expect to see the application of glass packaging across a number of milk brands in the near future,” said Slingsby. “The research indicates milk packaged in glass is associated with a wholesome, quality image due to the ability of glass to keep beverages colder for longer and not interfere with taste.”

In response to the consumer research which highlighted milk as a regular, habitual purchase, O-I has launched a new 750 mL glass bottle for the milk industry. The bottle has been designed to fit standard Australian and New Zealand milk crates ensuring convenient storage and transport.

“Glass packaging presents a significant opportunity for brands to differentiate their products by using a material that is 100% infinitely recyclable in a closed loop, from milk bottle to milk bottle,” said Slingsby.