What Were Beer Trays Used For? Types of Beer Trays

Beer trays may seem like simple bar accessories, but they hold a deep connection to beer history, branding, and culture. From collectible vintage beer trays for sale to modern custom tray design, this article explores the fascinating uses and types of beer trays, both old and new.

The Original Purpose of Beer Trays

So, what were beer trays used for in the first place? Traditionally, beer trays were created for carrying multiple glasses or bottles at once in busy pubs, breweries, or outdoor beer gardens. But more importantly, they served as branded promotional tools for beer companies.

From Budweiser beer trays to the Corona beer tray, each tray often featured a logo, slogan, or colorful artwork. These trays helped reinforce brand identity and became advertising pieces that patrons literally carried from table to table.

Over time, beer trays evolved from bar tools to collector's items, particularly old beer trays from now-defunct or regional breweries.

Types of Beer Trays

1. Vintage Beer Trays

Materials: Mostly metal beer trays, especially tin or aluminum.

Examples:

• Falstaff beer tray
• Knickerbocker beer tray
• Blatz beer tray
• Pabst beer tray
• Rheingold beer tray
• Genesee beer tray
• Hamms beer tray
• Iroquois beer tray
• Olympia beer tray
• Piels beer tray
• Guinness beer tray
• Mexican beer tray

Collectors often look for vintage beer trays for sale, and many attend beer tray auctions to find rare editions. The vintage beer trays value depends on condition, rarity, and historical significance.

2. Cardboard Beer Trays

Lightweight and affordable, cardboard beer trays are often used at large-scale events, concerts, or beer festivals. Though less durable, they offer ample space for custom branding and are eco-friendly options.

3. Plastic Beer Trays

Plastic beer trays are a modern choice for bars and restaurants. They're durable, easy to clean, and cost-effective. They’re also widely used in POSM marketing campaigns, especially with printed logos.

4. Custom Beer Trays

Modern brands, craft brewers, and global beverage companies increasingly turn to custom beer trays to showcase their identity.

• Custom tray design: We help design from scratch based on your logo, colors, and campaign goals.
• Custom beer drip tray / custom tray: Functional trays with built-in drainage to keep bar surfaces dry.
• Customized tray solutions: From shapes to handles to anti-slip coating.
• Custom beer trays supplier: At Longrichbar, we’re a trusted custom beer trays manufacturer for major beverage brands worldwide.

Whether it's a minimalist tray for a premium brand or a vibrant POS piece for events, customization drives brand engagement.

Collector's Favorites: Iconic Branded Trays

Enthusiasts often search for branded treasures like:

• Budweiser beer tray – Classic red, iconic Clydesdale imagery
• Heineken beer tray – Green branding with global recognition
• Falstaff beer tray – A staple in American beer history
• Kolsch beer tray – German precision with traditional flair
• Guinness beer tray – Dark tones and gold, often featuring the harp logo
• Mexican beer tray – Bright, cultural design celebrating Latin beer brands

What About Beer Drip Trays?

Don’t confuse a serving tray with a beer drip tray. These sit under beer taps or kegs to catch spills, often built-in stainless steel with drain holes. Some brands offer custom drip tray and serving tray sets for consistent POS branding.

How to Use Custom Beer Trays in Modern Marketing

Modern bars, breweries, and beverage brands use custom tray design for:

• New product launches
• Themed events or beer festivals
• POSM activation campaigns
• Gifting for distributors or VIPs

A customized tray is both practical and promotional. When made by a trusted custom beer trays supplier like Longrichbar, it becomes a long-term branding asset.

Why Choose Longrichbar?

As a top custom beer trays supplier, Longrichbar offers:

• Durable materials: Plastic, metal, or cardboard beer trays
• Advanced printing: Full-color logo printing, UV coating, anti-scratch finish
• OEM/ODM service: We are your custom beer trays manufacturer from idea to final delivery
• Bulk order ready: For bar chains, breweries, agencies, or events

Conclusion

Beer trays have evolved from pub tools to powerful brand statements and collectible art. From vintage beer trays with historical charm to custom beer trays made for modern campaigns, there’s a type of beer tray for every need.

Whether you're browsing beer tray auctions, evaluating vintage beer trays value, or looking for a custom beer trays supplier, Longrichbar is your one-stop partner for high-quality custom tray design that leaves a lasting impression.