NEW research from test and measurement partner Industrial Physics has revealed that 92% of metal packaging professionals are unable to guarantee ‘consistent, measurable’ results with current technology.
An independent study surveyed 200 can-making and filling professionals across the UK, US, Germany and India to evaluate how prepared the sector is for the operational, quality and sustainability challenges expected by 2028.
Industrial Physics said the findings reveal an industry that understands what needs to change but remains ‘constrained by outdated assumptions and hesitation to invest in modern measurement systems’.
Quality risk emerged as one of the most pressing concerns. 86% of respondents said quality issues detected too late in production represent the top technical risk facing metal beverage cans. With lines running at speeds exceeding 2,000 cans per minute, even short delays in detection can result in tens of thousands of potentially defective units before corrective action is taken.
Stefan Welker, strategic segment manager at Industrial Physics, said, “The scale of the risk is difficult to overstate here. The impact of inaccurate, unreliable measurement is enormous and prohibits effective scaling and standardisation between sites. Yet, the research confirmed our belief that misconceptions are holding manufacturers back. Action is critical, now is the time to investigate what is available and lean on a testing partner to solve knowledge gaps.”
Respondents also identified structural integrity (33%), cost control (31%) and sustainability targets (30%) as top priorities for the next three years, exposing the pressure manufacturers face as they attempt to lightweight packaging, increase recycled aluminium content, and maintain performance. The report reveals competing demands are converging faster than production systems are evolving.
Regional confidence levels also varied. While 96% of respondents in India expressed confidence in supply chain resilience approaching 2028, this fell to 92% in Germany, 84% in the US, and just 78% in the UK.
Stefan added, “The industry clearly understands what’s coming: tighter sustainability targets, increasing production complexity and zero tolerance for defects. What’s holding progress back isn’t technology – the solutions already exist. The onus is now on manufacturers to put awareness into measurable action.
“Too many are still operating on outdated assumptions about what measurement technology can do. Those who invest now will be far better positioned to reduce waste, protect quality and meet regulatory expectations. Those who don’t are gambling with their brand, their output – and their future.”
To download the report, visit https://industrialphysics.com/campaign/ready-but-not-prepared-metal-packagings-2028-reality-check/
