Packaging of the month July 2024: NIO cocktails in CD format

We love cocktails and we love unusual packaging. The Italian brand NIO combines both in an extremely creative and sustainable way. That’s why we couldn’t help but choose the high-quality cocktails in the practical CD format as our Packaging of the Month for July.
A brief introduction to the somewhat different cocktail container
The packaging for NIO cocktails is made up of two parts. On the outside, the square paper folding box gives the products their unique look. Inside, a plastic bag contains the cocktail. It keeps the drink fresh unopened for six to well over twelve months – depending on whether it is alcoholic or not. The cocktail CDs can be stored in the same way as spirits in bottles. They are also very easy to use:
1. shake well.
2. tear open the packaging at the dotted top corner.
3. pour into a tumbler with ice cubes.
4. enjoy.
High cocktail quality in sustainable packaging
NIO only uses premium spirits produced by the world’s leading distilleries. The brand mixes its cocktails at home in Italy, in keeping with the country’s renowned tradition and craftsmanship. This combination guarantees the highest quality, especially as the cocktails are free from additives and preservatives.
In addition to the cocktails, the quality of the special packaging is also impressive, as it is mainly made from FSC-certified paper. The inner bag made of 50 per cent* bio-based plastic is 100 per cent recyclable, just like the cardboard. The two components can be easily separated after enjoying the cocktail so that they can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.
* NIO Cocktails is already working on producing the inner bag from 100 per cent bio-based plastic.
Bold design concept with a certain risk
Admittedly, at first glance you would never guess that the “CD sleeves” could contain delicious cocktails. With this packaging, NIO is moving far away from the classic packaging concept. We are familiar with spirits almost exclusively in bottles. Of course, this harbours a certain risk because the cocktails are not immediately recognisable as such. Conversely, the products stand out and differentiate themselves from the competition as much as possible. They arouse curiosity and have enormous trend potential. The brand’s courage is therefore likely to be rewarded.