As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can shed some light on why mini Coke cans, specifically the 7.5oz ones, tend to be more expensive than their larger counterparts. It all comes down to supply and demand, as well as the economics of scale in the canning industry.
Firstly, it's important to understand that 12oz cans are produced in massive volumes. Companies that produce canned beverages, like Coca-Cola, have perfected the art of mass production to keep costs as low as possible. When you produce something in such high volume, the cost of materials and manufacturing processes can be significantly reduced due to economies of scale. This is why 12oz cans are relatively inexpensive.
On the other hand, 7.5oz cans are not as commonly used and therefore not produced in the same high volumes as their larger counterparts. The lower demand for these smaller cans means that canning companies have less incentive to invest in large-scale production lines dedicated to them. This lack of economies of scale leads to higher costs per unit.
Additionally, the smaller size of the 7.5oz cans also affects pricing. When you compare the cost of manufacturing a 12oz can to a 7.5oz can, you'll find that the difference in material cost is not significant. Both cans require similar amounts of aluminum or other materials. However, the cost of the can itself is only a fraction of the overall production cost. Other factors, such as transportation, labeling, and marketing, contribute to the final price. These costs are spread out over the volume of the beverage contained in the can. Therefore, when you have a smaller can size, the fixed costs are divided among fewer ounces of product, making each ounce more expensive.
Furthermore, the demand for mini Coke cans may also play a role in their pricing. These smaller cans are often marketed as a convenient and portion-controlled option for consumers. They are frequently sold in multipacks or as part of promotional campaigns. The perceived value and convenience associated with mini cans can lead to higher prices, as consumers may be willing to pay a premium for the convenience and novelty factor.
In my personal experience, I have noticed that specialty or unique packaging tends to come with a higher price tag. For example, limited edition or collector's edition cans often cost more than regular ones, even if the actual beverage inside is the same. This is because companies know that collectors or enthusiasts are willing to pay extra for these unique packaging options.
To summarize, the higher cost of mini Coke cans, particularly the 7.5oz size, can be attributed to several factors. These include the lack of economies of scale in production, higher fixed costs per ounce due to smaller can size, and the convenience and novelty factor that consumers associate with mini cans. While 12oz cans are produced in such high volumes that canning companies pay just barely over the cost of materials, the less common 7.5oz cans face higher production costs, which are then passed on to the consumer.