AN undergraduate graphic design programme has been launched by the Can Makers UK in partnership with Edge Hill University in Lancashire.
The move follows the university’s participation in The Can Makers UK Design Accolades Programme, which saw students judge the previous year’s designs to select an overall winner for 2025.
Can Makers UK said it is expected that the new programme will serve as a pilot before being offered more widely to universities with a graphic design specialism in 2027 and beyond.
Adopted by Edge Hill University as a core module for second year media students, the initiative will see undergraduates participate in a beverage can design competition, supported by industry experts from among the Can Makers UK members. A design masterclass and feedback sessions will span Semester 2, after which an overall winner will be selected by the Can Makers UK committee.
The designs will be judged on their ability to help a hypothetical new brand create shelf standout, differentiate its product from competitors, overcome potential barriers in perception, communicate environmental credentials, and drive sales. All students will receive personalised feedback and digital proofs of their design, and the winner will be invited to see their design printed at one of the Can Makers UK member’s graphics studios.
John O’Maoileoin, chairman of the Can Makers UK, said, “This new initiative gives students valuable insight to the application of graphic design in a commercial environment, and will help to equip them with technical expertise that will prove invaluable in their chosen career path. By focusing on beverage can design, the competition also provides students with a unique 360-degree canvass to express their creative ability, while learning how to make the most effective use of a specific packaging substrate to help brands differentiate in a mature and highly competitive marketplace.
“Research conducted by the Can Makers UK also confirms that over 70% of younger consumers are more likely to choose a drink because of its packaging design, so I’m looking forward to engaging with undergraduate communities as they bring innovative new concepts to life and explore the ways in which tomorrow’s brands can tap into the possibilities that beverage cans offer.”
Jenna Gardner, senior lecturer in graphic design at Edge Hill University, added, “This collaboration provides our students with invaluable real-world experience. The opportunity to engage directly with industry specialists helps them understand how to design effectively and with purpose. The brief has already sparked a lot of enthusiasm, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the students develop their brand and packaging concepts over the coming months.”
