SOUTH AFRICA – The South African packaging industry is projected to grow from US$10.35 billion in 2023 to US$12.91 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate of 4.52%, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence.
The market is experiencing growth due to a rising number of young consumers and an increasing demand for consumer goods.
Rising household disposable income is another factor growing demand for convenient food products, further propelling the market for fresh food packaging.
Due to busy lifestyles and a growing population of qualified professionals, the country has a high market penetration of ready-to-eat meals, which is also anticipated to support the expansion of bags and pouches-based packaging solutions over the next 5 years.
Urbanization fuels growth
Rapid urbanization and increased health awareness have led to a rise in the consumption of convenience and health foods, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This has created a demand for various packaging solutions.
The number of people aged 12-24 has steadily risen as a percentage of the population, driving demand for carbonated/soft drinks, bottled water alcoholic beverages and convenience food, which will add to the demand for packaging solutions.
In addition, the trend for smaller families living in smaller accommodations with less storage space is making consumers more appreciative of space-efficient packaging where carton packaging has become the suitable solution.
Major global beauty and cosmetics companies are also capitalizing on the industry growth expected in Sub-Saharan Africa, with the beauty industry expected to double in size in the next decade as the population and disposable incomes in the region grow.
At the same time, the growing concern about the environment and recycling is leading to an increase in the demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
There is an increased focus on using eco-friendly materials to reduce waste and environmental impact, such as biodegradable, recyclable, or compostable materials.
The packaging industry will also benefit from the increasing use of new technology and smart packaging solutions.
Integration of technology, such as QR codes, augmented reality, or temperature-sensitive sensors, which enhance the consumer experience, share information, or track product freshness, have the ability to interact with the customer and provide them with more information about the product and connect them online.
Local Packaging Industry Takes Centre Stage
Meanwhile, the industry is poised to witness new innovations during this year’s Propak Cape exhibition, which will be held at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC) from October 24th to 26th.
Visitors to this year’s event can expect to see thousands of new and innovative products from across the packaging, plastics, print, labelling, food processing and related industries, showcasing all the latest market-related trends and developments.
Visitors to Propak Cape 2023 will get to see the introduction of the latest AI-powered machine vision products and technologies from Westplex which will be displayed at the show.
Rhine Ruhr Process Equipment will also launch the new Life Portfolio at Propak Cape 2023, a comprehensive range of homogenization, mixing, filling, and labeling solutions featuring state-of-the-art technology from partners never before seen in South Africa.
The company will be showcasing the TPS Inline High Shear Mixer, ideal for demanding applications requiring high shear rates and mixing intensities.
Other companies to showcase their innovative technologies and products include; Filkraft, Ishida South Africa, PMD Packaging Systems among many others.
