Retailer/Field FAQs: Hybrid Cans
As a Sales Rep, I recall that we piloted a different type of can a couple of years ago. How is this different and why do you think this time it will work?
In 2009, we took the first step in this transition and rigorously tested the performance of a 100% plastic can during labeling, filling, shipping, tinting and stocking. As some might recall, we weren't satisfied with the can's performance in some retailers' tinting equipment; in addition, lids were too difficult to reseal after tinting. Because of what we learned in 2009, this second phase of the pilot has been successful, with a different type of can (plastic body with metal rim and lid) performing very well throughout every stage of the supply chain and store operations.
Is Benjamin Moore adopting hybrid cans to save money?
The cost of manufacturing and shipping hybrid cans to and from our plants is about the same as metal. However, we do expect to recover losses due to damaged cans -- that's a win for Benjamin Moore and for our retailers. It's also important to note that the great majority of paint sold today is stored in hybrid or 100% plastic cans.
Is there any physical difference in the new can's size?
The new cans have the same circumference as the metal cans, but are slightly taller (about 1/8").
Will stores need different equipment or new shelving to accommodate the new hybrid cans?
No. The new cans performed well with all equipment on our approved equipment lists. Some retailers may have to adjust the height of their shelving to accommodate new cans, however, because the cans "nest" the overall profile does not increase greatly. The nesting feature also provides for a more stable on shelf presence
Are there any special stocking instructions for the new cans?
Within the store, the new hybrid will stack the same as the metal cans. Within a warehouse environment - on pallets, for instance - the new hybrid cans should only be stacked two pallets high.
Are there any differences in shaking the product in the new can?
Because there will be less air space between product and lid in the hybrid can, retailers may note in certain colors shaking time is slightly longer. Our guidance continues to be that a six minute shake will lead to full colorant incorporation.
Will all the one-gallon waterborne paints ordered from July onward be shipped in hybrid cans?
No. Until metal can inventories deplete, we will be shipping paint in both metal and hybrid cans. It's a soft launch. Retailers will need to be aware that every latex brand's on shelf presence will be mixed until the retailer sells through all its older metal stock.
Are the hybrid cans "greener" (more ecologically sound) than metal cans?
Both cans can and should be recycled.