Packaging in 2024: The big picture
In 2024, Australia’s packaging landscape across home care, beverages, food, pet food and beauty and personal care was defined by rapid innovation in both materials and formats, driven by sustainability imperatives, cost-of-living pressures and evolving consumer preferences. Flexible pouches, refill packs and concentrated product formats gained significant traction in home care, beauty and food, offering both waste reduction and cost savings. Aluminium cans and bottles, rPET bottles and FSC-certified paperboard cartons saw strong growth in beverages, as brands responded to regulatory targets and consumer demand for recyclable, lightweight and lower-carbon packaging. Food and pet food packaging shifted towards resealable, portion-controlled pouches, recyclable aluminium trays and thin wall containers, balancing freshness, convenience and waste reduction. Refillable and reusable options expanded across categories, with brands introducing innovative dispensing technologies and compact, single-serve or mini formats to support portion control and affordability. Heightened awareness of microplastic pollution and new regulations accelerated the move away from single-use plastics, with paper-based and compostable materials gaining share. Tariff-related raw material costs and supply chain volatility further encouraged the adoption of alternative materials and lightweight designs. Overall, the industry pivoted towards circularity and consumer empowerment, with packaging that is functional, sustainable and visually appealing, reflecting a decisive shift in both market strategy and consumer expectations.
2024 key trends
Brands are embedding technology into packaging to provide real-time information and enhance consumer trust. QR codes and NFC tags allow shoppers to verify authenticity, track product origins and access sustainability credentials. For example, Nestlé uses QR codes on coffee packs to share sourcing details, while L’Oréal integrates digital features in beauty packaging for personalised tutorials. This trend is gaining traction in food and beauty as well as premium segments, in which transparency and engagement drive loyalty. With the Recycling Modernisation Fund bans on certain single-use plastics, brands are shifting to fibre-based packaging. High-barrier paper wraps and moulded fibre trays are replacing plastic in food and beverage categories. For example, Nestlé Australia launched paper-based confectionery wrappers, and PepsiCo ANZ introduced fibre-based multipack wraps for snacks. These innovations support APCO’s 2025 targets for recyclable and compostable packaging.
Sustainability as the driving force in Australian food packaging innovation
In 2024, sustainability was the central force driving innovation in Australian food packaging across all major categories, including dairy, sauces, confectionery etc. Manufacturers and brands are rapidly adopting recyclable, compostable and eco-friendly materials, such as PET, paperboard and lightweight plastics, responding to strong consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and strict regulatory requirements like the APCO (Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation) 2025 National Packaging Targets. These regulations mandate that packaging must be recyclable, reusable or compostable, prompting companies to redesign pack types, reduce virgin plastic use and invest in circular solutions. Retailers are also pushing suppliers to deliver packaging that minimises environmental impact, leading to widespread adoption of features like resealable packs, single-serve sizes and smart packaging with QR codes for recycling guidance. As a result, sustainability is no longer just a trend, but a strategic imperative, shaping product launches, competitive positioning and the overall direction of food packaging innovation in Australia.
Non-alcoholic drinks packaging embraces recyclability and innovation
In 2024, the Australian non-alcoholic drinks packaging industry was experiencing a strong shift towards sustainability, with rapid growth in both rPET (recycled PET) and metal beverage cans, alongside notable innovation in paperboard and alternatives to plastic shrink wrap. Metal beverage cans are the leading pack type in soft drinks, and also continued to gain share in 2024, thanks to their superior protection, quick cooling and robust, lightweight design, exemplified by launches like TÖST Beverages sparkling soft drinks in sleek cans. PET bottles remain a very popular format for soft drinks due to their light weight, durability and recyclability, with leading players like PepsiCo Australia and Asahi Beverages having moved to 100% rPET content in their bottles.
Aluminium packaging gaining share in alcoholic drinks in Australia
In 2024, the major trend in alcoholic drinks packaging in Australia was a strong shift towards lightweight, sustainable and portable formats, especially aluminium beverage cans and bottles as well as pouches, driven by changing consumer preferences, supply chain adjustments and sustainability goals. Metal cans are gaining share from glass bottles, particularly in beer and RTDs, as they offer convenience, recyclability and lower transportation costs, while glass bottles are declining, except in premium or heritage segments. Aluminium/plastic pouches are also emerging as dynamic options for RTDs and wine, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and supporting carbon footprint reduction. Notably, innovations like Brown Brothers’ sparkling wine in a 750ml aluminium bottle and the expansion of bag-in-box formats for bulk serving reflect the industry’s focus on functionality and environmental responsibility. These shifts are reinforced by reduced domestic glass production, increased canning capacity and regulatory emphasis on recyclable packaging, making sustainability and convenience the defining forces in Australia’s alcoholic drinks packaging landscape.
Eco-friendly and refillable packaging leads beauty innovation
In 2024, a major trend in beauty and personal care packaging in Australia was the rapid adoption of sustainable, refillable and eco-conscious formats across key categories like skin care, hair care or baby care, driven by consumer demand for environmental responsibility and regulatory objectives, such as the 2025 National Packaging Targets. Brands are innovating with packaging that uses recycled materials (like post-consumer PET and HDPE), lightweight flexible plastics and refill systems, such as Johnson’s Baby refill pouches, which significantly reduce plastic usage and support circular design. Premium brands are also launching refillable fragrance bottles and compact, squeezable tubes for targeted treatments, balancing luxury appeal with sustainability. These developments reflect a broader industry shift towards packaging that minimises waste, enhances convenience and aligns with evolving consumer values and regulatory requirements, making sustainability and refillability central to beauty and personal care packaging innovation.
Flexible, refillable and compact are the new home care packaging standards
In 2024, Australia’s home care packaging industry was seeing a shift towards flexible, eco-friendly and refillable formats, with plastic pouches for laundry aids and concentrated products leading the way. Brands increasingly adopted refillable containers and pouches, such as The Dirt Company’s stain remover refills and Unilever’s OMO “Dilute-at-Home” packs, which allow consumers to mix concentrates with water at home, reducing plastic use. These smaller, lightweight packs are designed for convenience and space efficiency, often featuring resealable closures and easy-pour spouts to enhance user experience and minimise mess. Compostable and recyclable materials are gaining traction, as seen in evercleaner’s powder-to-liquid dishwashing sachets packaged in 100% compostable film. The move away from rigid bottles and folding cartons towards flexible, refillable and concentrated formats is driven by consumer demand for sustainability, cost savings and convenience, as well as regulatory targets like APCO’s National Packaging Targets. Dispensing technologies are evolving to support these trends, with innovations focused on precise dosing, spill prevention and compatibility with modern, concentrated formulations. Overall, the industry is rapidly embracing circular design principles, with refillable and concentrated products fundamentally reshaping pack sizes and material choices in home care packaging.
Sustainable and convenient packaging trends in pet food
In 2024, the dog and cat food packaging market saw a strong emphasis on both sustainability and convenience. Aluminium/plastic pouches remained the leading pack type due to their lightweight design, superior product protection and enhanced shelf appeal. These pouches often feature resealable closures, making them user-friendly and ideal for maintaining freshness, while also supporting portion control, especially in popular small pack sizes like 85g and 100g, which help pet owners manage serving sizes and reduce waste. Aluminium trays are also gaining traction in wet pet food, offering excellent preservation qualities, easy-open features and strong recyclability, aligning with consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions. Thin wall plastic containers are forecast to grow as well, valued for their easy-open lids, resealable options and modern aesthetics that boost shelf appeal. In addition, new regulations, such as the Pet Food (Marketing and Labelling) Bill 2024, are driving clearer labelling and higher standards, further shaping packaging innovation. Overall, the industry is moving towards packaging that is not only sustainable and recyclable, but also highly convenient and tailored to modern pet owners’ needs for freshness, portion control and ease of use.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in Australia with research from Euromonitor International's team of in-country analysts – experts by industry and geographic specialisation.
Key trends are clearly and succinctly summarised alongside the most current research data available. Understand and assess competitive threats and plan corporate strategy with our qualitative analysis, insight and confident growth projections.
Data and analysis in this report provides further detailed coverage dedicated to a comprehensive range of packaging types.
If you're in the Packaging industry in Australia, our research will help you to make informed, intelligent decisions; to recognise and profit from opportunity, or to offer resilience amidst market uncertainty.
The Packaging in Australia report includes:
- Analysis of key supply-side and demand trends
- Detailed segmentation of international and local products
- Historic volume and value sizes, company and brand market shares
- Five year forecasts of market trends and market growth
- Robust and transparent research methodology, conducted in-country
This report answers:
- What is the market size of Packaging in Australia?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in Australia?
- Have there been any packaging legislative changes in the past 12 months?
- How are consumption trends impacting the packaging landscape?
- What are the key trends and latest product developments in packaging?
- How important are sustainability and recycling to consumers in Australia?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in Australia
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
2024 key trends
Sustainability as the driving force in Australian food packaging innovation
Non-alcoholic drinks packaging embraces recyclability and innovation
Aluminium packaging gaining share in alcoholic drinks in Australia
Eco-friendly and refillable packaging leads beauty innovation
Flexible, refillable and compact are the new home care packaging standards
Sustainable and convenient packaging trends in pet food
Australia’s push for stronger packaging laws and recycled plastics
Stronger packaging standards introduced in Australia
ACCC drives major soft plastics regulatory reset in Australia
Australia expands recycling capacity through the RMF
Australia’s new kerbside recycling standard
From food waste to compost: Australia’s circular recycling push
DISCLAIMER
The following categories and subcategories are included:
Packaging
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- Baby and Child-specific Products Packaging
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- Bar Soap
- Bath Additives
- Body Powder
- Body Wash/Shower Gel
- Hand Sanitisers
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- Intimate Washes
- Intimate Wipes
- Liquid Soap
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- Eye Liner/Pencil
- Eye Shadow
- Mascara
- Other Lash and Brow Make-Up
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- BB/CC Creams
- Blusher/Bronzer/Highlighter
- Foundation/Concealer
- Powder
- Other Facial Make-Up
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- Lip Gloss
- Lip Liner/Pencil
- Lipstick
- Other Lip Products
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- Nail Polish
- Nail Treatments/Strengthener
- Polish Remover
- Other Nail Products
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- Deodorant Creams
- Deodorant Pumps
- Deodorant Roll-Ons
- Deodorant Sprays
- Deodorant Sticks
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- Hair Removers/Bleaches
- Women's Pre-Shave
- Women's Razors and Blades
- Fragrances Packaging
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- 2-in-1 Products
- Colourants
- Conditioners and Treatments
- Perms and Relaxants
- Salon Professional Hair Care
- Standard Shampoos
- Styling Agents
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- Men's Post-Shave
- Men's Pre-Shave
- Men's Razors and Blades
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- Men's Bath and Shower
- Men's Deodorants
- Men's Hair Care
- Men's Skin Care
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- Dental Floss
- Denture Care
- Mouth Fresheners
- Mouthwashes/Dental Rinses
- Tooth Whiteners
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
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- Body Care
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- Face Masks
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- Liquid/Cream/Gel/Bar Cleansers
- Facial Cleansing Wipes
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- Basic Moisturisers
- Anti-Agers
- Lip Care
- Toners
- Hand Care
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- Adult Sun Care
- Baby and Child-specific Sun Care
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- Dark Beer
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- Flavoured/Mixed Lager
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- Domestic Lager
- Imported Lager
- Non/Low Alcohol Beer
- Stout
- Cider/Perry
- RTDs
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- Brandy and Cognac
- Liqueurs
- Rum
- Tequila (and Mezcal)
- Whiskies
- White Spirits
- Other Spirits
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- Fortified Wine and Vermouth
- Non-Grape Wine
- Sparkling Wine
- Still Light Grape Wine
- Non Alcoholic Wine
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- Fresh Coffee Beans
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- Fresh Ground Coffee Pods
- Standard Fresh Ground Coffee
- Instant Coffee
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- Black Tea
- Green Tea
- Fruit/Herbal Tea
- Instant Tea
- Other Tea
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- Flavoured Powder Drinks
- Other Plant-based Hot Drinks
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- Asian Speciality Drinks
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- Carbonated Bottled Water
- Flavoured Bottled Water
- Functional Bottled Water
- Still Bottled Water
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- Cola Carbonates
- Non-Cola Carbonates
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- Liquid Concentrates
- Powder Concentrates
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- 100% Juice
- Juice Drinks (up to 24% Juice)
- Nectars (25-99% Juice)
- Coconut and Other Plant Waters
- Energy Drinks
- Sports Drinks
- RTD Coffee
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- Carbonated RTD Tea and Kombucha
- Still RTD Tea
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- Cat Treats and Mixers
- Dry Cat Food
- Wet Cat Food
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- Dog Treats and Mixers
- Dry Dog Food
- Wet Dog Food
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- Dried Baby Food
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- Liquid Milk Formula
- Powder Milk Formula
- Prepared Baby Food
- Other Baby Food
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- Dessert Mixes
- Frozen Baked Goods
- Packaged Bread
- Packaged Cakes
- Packaged Pastries
- Dessert Pies and Tarts
- Breakfast Cereals Packaging
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- Chocolate Pouches and Bags
- Boxed Assortments
- Chocolate with Toys
- Countlines
- Seasonal Chocolate
- Tablets
- Other Chocolate Confectionery
- Gum
- Sugar Confectionery
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- Butter and Spreads
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- Processed Cheese
- Packaged Hard Cheese
- Soft Cheese
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- Flavoured Milk Drinks
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- Fresh Milk
- Shelf Stable Milk
- Goat Milk
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- Powder Milk
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- Sour Milk Products
- Yoghurt
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- Chilled and Shelf Stable Desserts
- Chilled Snacks
- Coffee Whiteners
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- Condensed Milk
- Cream
- Fromage Frais and Quark
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- Plant-based Milk
- Plant-based Yoghurt
- Plant-based Cheese
- Edible Oils Packaging
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- Frozen Yoghurt
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Plant-based Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
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- Frozen Fruit
- Frozen Processed Potatoes
- Frozen Processed Vegetables
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- Shelf Stable Beans
- Shelf Stable Fruit
- Shelf Stable Tomatoes
- Shelf Stable Vegetables
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- Chilled Processed Meat
- Frozen Processed Meat
- Shelf Stable Meat
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- Chilled Processed Seafood
- Frozen Processed Seafood
- Shelf Stable Seafood
- Meat and seafood substitutes inc Tofu
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- Dried Ready Meals
- Shelf Stable Ready Meals
- Chilled Ready Meals
- Frozen Ready Meals
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- Chilled Pizza
- Frozen Pizza
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- Meal Kits
- Quick Recipe Kits
- Chilled Lunch Kits
- Prepared Salads
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- Dry Soup
- Shelf Stable Soup
- Chilled Soup
- Frozen Soup
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- Noodles
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- Chilled Pasta
- Dried Pasta
- Rice
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- Bouillon
- Gravy Cubes, Powders and Pots
- Herbs and Spices
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Tomato Pastes and Purées
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- Liquid Recipe Sauces (excl pasta sauces)
- Dry Recipe Sauces
- Pasta Sauces
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- Barbecue Sauces
- Chili Sauces
- Fish Sauces
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Oyster Sauces
- Salad Dressings
- Soy Sauces
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- Dips
- Pickled Products
- Other Sauces and Condiments
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- Nuts, Seeds and Trail Mixes
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Salty Snacks
- Savoury Biscuits
- Meat Snacks
- Seafood Snacks
- Other Savoury Snacks
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- Chocolate Spreads
- Honey
- Jams and Preserves
- Nut and Seed Based Spreads
- Yeast-based Spreads
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- Fruit Snacks
- Snack Bars
- Sweet Biscuits
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- Candle Air Fresheners
- Car Air Fresheners
- Electric Air Fresheners
- Gel Air Fresheners
- Liquid Air Fresheners
- Spray/Aerosol Air Fresheners
- Other Air Care
- Bleach
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- Automatic Dishwashing Liquids
- Automatic Dishwashing Powders
- Automatic Dishwashing Tablets
- Dishwashing Additives
- Hand Dishwashing
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- Electric Insecticides
- Insecticide Baits
- Insecticide Coils
- Spray/Aerosol Insecticides
- Other Home Insecticides
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- Carpet Cleaners
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- Dryer Sheets
- Liquid Fabric Softeners
- Laundry Aids
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- Powder Detergents
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- Compact Powder Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Detergents
- Other Detergents
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- Floor Polish
- Furniture Polish
- Metal Polish
- Shoe Polish
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- Cleaning Solution
- Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks (Excluding Wipes)
- Wipes (Excluding Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks)
- Bathroom Cleaners
- Descalers
- Drain Openers
- Floor Cleaners
- Home Care Disinfectants
- Kitchen Cleaners
- Multi-Purpose Cleaners
- Oven Cleaners
- Scouring Agents
- Window/Glass Cleaners
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- In-Cistern Devices
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- Rim Blocks
- Rim Liquids
- Toilet Care Tablets/Powders
- Toilet Cleaning Systems
- Toilet Liquids/Foam
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This report originates from Passport, our Packaging research and analysis database.
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