SOUTH AFRICA – Agile Capital, a private equity firm, has acquired a significant minority share in Berry Astrapak, a leading manufacturer of rigid-moulded and thermoformed plastic packaging products for the African market.
Berry Astrapak operates manufacturing facilities in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and Kwa-Zulu Natal, focusing on innovation-driven growth within the packaging industry.
Berry Astrapak’s journey includes its acquisition by RPC Group in June 2017, during which it operated as RPC Astrapak.
In June 2019, Berry Global Group, Inc. acquired RPC Group, further expanding its capabilities and market reach.
The company serves a diverse range of industries, from personal care and food services to automotive markets, positioning itself as a key player in African packaging solutions.
With a growing African packaging market, currently valued at an estimated US$43 billion and projected to reach US$52 billion by 2029, Berry Astrapak is well-positioned to capitalize on new opportunities.
The rise in young consumers across the continent is driving increased demand for consumer goods, and sustainability within the packaging sector has become a crucial factor in growth strategies.
“We pursue opportunities across diverse sectors,” said Liz Kolobe, a partner at Agile Capital. “We look for businesses with sound growth strategies, solid operational track records, and strong management teams for long-term partnerships. Berry Astrapak is well established, and we look forward to being part of its continued growth.”
Recent investments in South Africa’s packaging industry
Recently, Alpla, an Austrian packaging firm, invested US$65 million in constructing a PET reprocessing plant in Ballito, Kwa-Zulu Natal.
The facility, set to open next year, will produce over 35,000 metric tons of recycled PET (rPET) annually.
Alpla’s partnership with Re-Purpose, a leader in post-consumer plastic recycling, aims to collect 5,000 tonnes of PET scrap monthly, diverting plastic waste from landfills while creating jobs and income for previously disadvantaged communities.
This collaboration not only strengthens the recycling infrastructure but also enhances Alpla’s ability to provide recycled-content PET to its packaging clients.
The initiative aligns with the industry’s growing emphasis on sustainability and circular economy practices, further contributing to the region’s packaging sector growth.
Together, ALPLA and Re-Purpose are committed to developing and introducing sustainable packaging solutions that benefit businesses, consumers, and the environment.
This partnership marks a significant step forward towards a more circular and sustainable future.
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