A deliberately art-forward energy drink can has taken the top prize in the seventh annual Colored by INXÔ Can Design Contest, run by ink manufacturer INX International.
El Jefe Energy’s Sinister Razz design, submitted by its manufacturing partner Can-One USA, earned the highest combined score from both a judging panel and public voting conducted via INX’s social media channels between 20 and 22 April.
The winning can was designed to break from what Nick Hanna, Head of Creative and Branding at Can-One USA, describes as the energy drink category’s tendency towards functional, interchangeable packaging. The design centers on strong iconography, roses, and a commanding central figure, using five colors selected from INX’s two-piece metal color catalog; a requirement of the contest rules.
Can-One USA, based in Nashua, New Hampshire (just down the road from PNN Towers), produces over two billion aluminum beverage cans annually at an 180,000-square-foot facility opened in 2024. The company describes itself as the only aluminum can supplier based in New England.
El Jefe Energy was founded the same year, with a stated commitment to treating each can as a canvas for original artwork. Co-founder and CEO Ryan Marsh positions it as a deliberately underground brand.
Contest organizer Jeanie Morris, INX’s marketing and promotions manager, noted that entries were nearly double those of previous years. Winners will receive an engraved trophy and a feature in Color Perfection Magazine. The 2027 contest is expected to open for entries in January.
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