Ogeu commits to cans in all its brands

France’s leading beverage group, Ogeu, is taking an important step into growth markets by investing in a new filling line: a major installation that will enable an impressive range of Ogeu house brands to be packed in cans for the first time. Having chosen Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMP) as a partner in its 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 in a huge range of its multi-category beverages: alcoholic and non-alcoholic, sparkling and still, and even the more delicate products such as wine-based beverages.

The investment in its own filling line represents Ogeu’s commitment to making cans a key packaging option across all 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 allow Ogeu to enter new and interesting markets, such as soda, energy drinks and canned teas.

Among the first products to come out of 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-flavored black tea) and Thé Vert Menthe (green tea with mint), launched under the group’s popular water brand, Quézac. Meanwhile, Ogeu has launched Alqua as its first entry into the fast-growing and trendy soft drinks sector, and the new filling line will pack Alqua’s three flavours – lemon/lime, mango/pineapple and raspberry – in a stylish 33cl 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 investments to strengthen the brand. Mathieu Lignac, Marketing Director at Ogeu, said: “Cans are modern, convenient and an environmentally friendly option, so we see this investment in beverage cans as a great step forward. Given all of Ardagh’s expertise, they were the natural partner for us to enter this exciting new market.”

Dirk Schwung, Sales Director Ardagh Metal Packaging – Europe, said: “We are delighted to enter into this partnership with a renowned group such as Ogeu. It is gratifying to see this major player make such a definite commitment to Ardagh cans, now and for the future.”

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