Launched in the U.K. in November '95, Raw Spirit is filled in a 700-mL extruded aluminum "bottle" with a neck finish diameter of 1". It's made by Lawson Mardon Boxal, a division of Lawson Mardon Packaging (Bristol, U.K.). LMB uses extrusion methods common in the aerosol can business, but they customize shoulder and neck. A standard spray coating is used inside. Why aluminum? Apart from the fact that it distinguishes the product, "aluminium looks cold, which is ideal for vodka," explains Lesley Gillespie, MDT sales & marketing manager. "It has a very modern, clean look that reflects the image we want. Plus it's possible to put the bottle in the freezer to chill the vodka without any damage to the bottle." The offset-printed bottles are filled on a standard glass filling line and receive a plastic stopper supplied by Rankin Brothers (London, U.K.). It was actually MDT that designed and patented the stopper after being dissatisfied with standard closure offerings. The product retails for £11.32 ($17.50). Currently distributed throughout the U.K., MDT says it's signing distributors worldwide, with a deal for U.S. distribution expected to be finalized as PW went to press. Lawson Mardon Packaging
