Topics covered in this review include (1) the state of the markets for small packaged beverages (including beer), both worldwide and in various individual countries, (2) variations in the relative popularity of glass, metal and plastic containers in different markets and possible reasons for them, (3) recent innovations in container design, container decoration, closures, filling technology, etc., relating to cans, glass bottles and plastic containers (including PET beer bottles) and (4) the respective advantages and disadvantages of the different container types. This last subject itself covers several areas. Arguments on the different sides of the debate about the relative environmental impact levels of the different container types are outlined and recent initiatives to reduce negative environmental effects (e.g. by establishing or improving systems for collecting and recycling used containers) are described. The role of container design and decoration in marketing is briefly discussed.
