Red Boot Beverages is a full-service co-packing operation based in the heart of Iowa, specializing in RTD coffee, tea, cocktails, and functional beverages. With a deep bench of manufacturing experience, Red Boot built its reputation on precision, flexibility, and speed — key pillars in a category where shelf space is earned through agility and dependability.
The Challenge
As a turnkey co-packing partner serving a wide variety of RTD brands, Red Boot Beverage operates in a dynamic production environment where agility is non-negotiable. The company had previously sourced packaging directly through manufacturers but began experiencing growing friction — lead time constraints, fluctuating availability, and ad hoc order management created operational uncertainty at a time when their business was scaling rapidly.
This unpredictability became particularly acute when 12oz sleek cans—one of the most commonly requested formats—consistently required four or more weeks for fulfillment. This limited Red Boot’s flexibility and added pressure to their production planning.
The Solution
Enabling Speed and Flexibility with a Customer-Centric Supply Model
To stabilize their operations and reduce planning volatility, Red Boot transitioned to a supply model built for responsiveness. By leveraging a dedicated team through Cask—one structured around fast response times, transparent communication, and real-time coordination—Red Boot gained a streamlined, hands-on approach to can and lid procurement.
Crucial to this model is Cask’s long-standing partnership with Ball Corporation. Ball’s tiered distribution strategy ensures producers of all sizes, including co-packers and craft manufacturers, receive tailored service through trusted partners like Cask. This relationship allows Red Boot to access Ball-manufactured cans through a channel purpose-built for rapid execution and customer responsiveness.
Day-to-day, this is made possible by a transparent, high-touch approach: a single point of contact, full visibility into communications, and a team that keeps the details moving behind the scenes.
The Results
Responsiveness as a Competitive Advantage in Co-Packing
For co-packers, speed and flexibility are not optional—they are business-critical. Clients expect turnkey partners to manage complexity, minimize downtime, and deliver quickly across shifting timelines. In this environment, the ability to access packaging components promptly and predictably becomes a clear differentiator. Can supply partners can give businesses a competitive edge in a growing industry:
- Fast, flexible access to 12oz sleek cans and lids
- Supply planning that avoids shortages and reduces fire drills
- Transparent pricing and responsive support on freight and logistics
This model helps Red Boot stay ahead — and helps their clients do the same.
Ball recognizes the importance of this speed and flexibility, and strategically aligns with partners like Cask to deliver it. Together, they support the evolving needs of growing beverage brands with a service model that prioritizes communication, agility, and trust.
