The Washington Nationals’ District Coolers alcohol beverages were a hit at Nationals Park this season, filled on-site into pouches manufactured and digitally printed by Acme Paper and Supply.
The Nationals worked closely with Acme to bring together a concept presented by Lou Morga, General Manager of Levy Restaurants at Nationals Park. He says, “Acme Paper is a trusted partner of ours and does a great job getting us the products we need to help showcase all of the creative menu options at Nationals Park.”
The Nationals began selling District Cooler pouches on Opening Day 2018. “It was for a new concept planned out months in advance that replaced a stadium bar concept,” Morga recalls. “District Coolers featured four unique cocktails created by our front-of-house manager and culinary team. A custom-built refrigerated draft cocktail dispenser was installed to accommodate the expected volume. Bartenders fill the pouch, insert the straw, and then seal the bag around the straw before handing the cooler to each guest.”
Acme’s Alpha Products custom design division produced the District Coolers packaging. It also develops concepts for all types of foodservice clients, ranging from stadium concessions to caterers, fast-casual, and full-service restaurants.
The District Coolers pouch measures 5 x 9 x 3 in., though virtually any dimension can be created. The 4-mil pouch is made of linear low-density polyethylene. Pouches can be produced in various thicknesses and in different materials, based on application requirements.
Pouches are printed digitally with the drink program’s name on the front—District Coolers, in this instance—in the Washington Nationals’ red and navy blue team colors. The word District is printed in red cursive with a red star on each side of the word, referencing the Washington DC flag. The word Coolers is printed in navy blue in a bold block font. Above the logo is a white circle with the Nationals logo; below the logo is a rendering of the U.S. Capitol Building; and behind the logos is a tropical background that changes is pale blue at the top, similar to the sky, then fades into a golden yellow as it approaches the rendering of the capitol, like a tropical sunset.
Using a digital printing process gives Acme the capability to print in full color with few limitations on designs and colors. Pouches are supplied preformed in 1,000/case quantities.
Morga says, “Our guests loved the concept and the menu options. It was a top post on social media, and ‘Where do I get one?’ was a frequent question from our guests. District Coolers proved very successful and we are looking to add new options for next season.”
Similar concepts could show up at additional facilities in the future. Acme Vice President Scott Attman says the company works “with a variety of other venues in sports and entertainment around the country, including amusement parks and major league, minor league, and collegiate stadiums. The venues encompass different sports, including football, baseball, hockey, basketball, and soccer.”
