Innovative Easylift Easy-Open Ends From Crown Set New Standard for Convenience

Easylift easy-open ends are also compatible with existing can line equipment. Only one-off adjustments are needed, allowing brand owners to incorporate the innovative ends with no production downtime.

21/09/07 Crown Holdings, Inc. announces the launch of its patented Easylift easy-open ends, a revolutionary new standard in convenience packaging. Crown is currently working with Nestle Purina Petcare Europe to trial the new ends on its 400g packages of cat and dog food in The Netherlands. Once tests are completed, Nestle Purina intends to introduce this new standard across all of its major European brands.

Easylift easy-open ends significantly improve tab access, while retaining all the opening performance of Crown's flagship Eole technology. The end's improved tab access makes it easier and faster for consumers, including seniors, children and the physically impaired, to open canned food products without using a can opener or other tools.

"Easylift easy-open ends offer a simple and important benefit: greater consumer convenience," comments Tom Buday, Marketing Director of Nestle Purina Petcare Europe. "Crown's innovation features a generous gap between the can lid and tab for easier access to the product inside. With these new ends, we can better meet increasing consumer demands for more convenient packaging."

Easylift easy-open ends are also compatible with existing can line equipment. Only one-off adjustments are needed, allowing brand owners to incorporate the innovative ends with no production downtime. They also continue to perform through all levels of the supply chain.

Crown's latest innovation is ideal for a wide range of food applications including ready meals, fruits and vegetables, fish, dairy and pet food. Currently available in 73mm diameter and manufactured in France, production in additional locations in Europe and North America will begin shortly.

"Crown is committed to developing new technologies that help our customers build stronger brands by meeting the evolving needs of consumers," says John W. Conway, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Crown Holdings. "Our new Easylift easy-open ends will help brand owners like Nestle Purina achieve greater consumer preference and loyalty by significantly improving product interaction and convenience."