Crown warns aluminum can supply will tighten through 2025

Crown Holdings

Crown says aluminum can supply will tighten through late 2025 as demand outpaces capacity. The aluminum can supply outlook reflects stronger North American and European orders despite Asian tariff headwinds. As a result, Crown will boost efficiency and expand plants to protect aluminum can supply.

Demand growth offsets Asia weakness

Crown reports second-quarter growth across key end markets. North American beverage can shipments rose 1pc from the first quarter. European beverage can volumes increased 7pc, while North American food cans gained 5pc. However, Asia-Pacific volumes declined on tariff-driven weakness. Crown notes tariffs did not hit its Americas or European markets.

Capacity additions in Brazil and southern Europe

Crown will add a third line at Ponta Grossa, Brazil. The project lifts capacity to 3.6bn cans a year from 2.4bn. Commercial production is targeted for the third quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, Crown is modernizing Korinthos, Greece. It will also add a new line at a southern Europe site to be named. These moves aim to relieve regional tightness and cut logistics bottlenecks.

Stronger can demand supports upstream aluminum coil and coating suppliers. Therefore, brand owners should secure 2025-2026 volumes early. Crown’s efficiency push and brownfield upgrades should help balance regional imbalances over time.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Crown’s expansion signals sustained beverage packaging growth despite Asian softness. Expect contract pricing to favor reliable converters until new lines start. Watch Brazil and Greece timelines closely; any slippage could amplify near-term tightness.