Holsten Pils now packaged in non-returnable bottles

Holsten Pils is to be packaged in new non-returnable bottles in a move which the brewer says will bring major commercial and environmental benefits to the company and its customers. Holsten claimed the new lightweight bottles will bring big savings on transport costs, reduce energy on bottle washing and free up valuable warehouse stock space. Simon Treaner, director on on-trade sales, said: "As the only leading premium-packaged lager still in returnable format, we felt the time was right to simplify the supply of Holsten Pils." Licensees are promised savings through the abolition of returns, eradication of the 18% annual rate of lost deposits. Pub staff will also no longer have to sort bottles. The new bottles, which will also feature a special black label indicating units of alcohol, are being launched alongside a 20% extra free offer for selected independent free trade customers. Wholesalers will also benefit through extra warehouse space, no money tied up in deposits, reduced transport costs and invoicing, and new business opportunities for companies who previously refused to deal with returnable bottles. Holsten has also announced that its Pils cans are also changing, with a move from the current steel can to an aluminium product to enhance its appearance and shelf appeal. Treaner added: "We have absorbed most of the additional cost to maintain our competitive wholesale price against other PPL brands, resulting in savings." The new bottle will be available in cases of 24 and phased into the trade from the middle of this month. l Meanwhile, Holsten UK has launched Holsten non-alcoholic, which promises an "authentic lager taste". Holsten non-alcoholic is brewed in Hamburg, Germany, to the "same high standard" of all Holsten beers, but with the alcohol removed. A company spokesman said: "It is a full flavoured beer with flavour characteristics that include pronounced honey, toffee sweetness, fresh lemon, citrus hop, clean bitterness and a pithy finish.