Packaging in 2024: The big picture
South Africa’s packaging market is undergoing a significant transformation, with sustainability and practicality at the heart of developments across non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, pet food, home care and hot drinks. The push for environmentally responsible packaging is evident in the widespread adoption of recyclable and biodegradable materials, such as flexible plastics with resealable features in pet food, plastic pouches and large HDPE bottles in home care, and the increasing use of metal beverage cans and brick liquid cartons in alcoholic drinks. Regulatory requirements mandating high recycled content in plastic packaging, along with industry investments in recycling infrastructure and digital compliance solutions, are accelerating this shift. At the same time, manufacturers are responding to cost pressures and changing consumer preferences by offering both smaller single-serve and larger bulk pack sizes, aiming to balance affordability with value and convenience. This dual focus on sustainability and economic practicality is driving innovation, with notable examples including fully recyclable bag-in-box wine packaging and compostable tea bags in premium hot drinks.
Evolving packaging shift towards value and everyday convenience
A prominent trend in South Africa’s packaging market is the shift towards types that enhance convenience and adapt to changing consumption patterns. Bulk packs in pet food and home care have become increasingly popular, reflecting a move towards value-driven purchasing, especially for larger households and those seeking to reduce shopping frequency and costs. At the same time, single-serve cans and multipacks in beverages are expanding, catering to on-the-go lifestyles, informal trade and the need for portion control. These packaging choices are closely linked to affordability and practicality, as manufacturers respond to consumer demand for cost-effective solutions and products that fit into busy, modern routines. Cost pressures and supply chain considerations are also influencing the selection of packaging materials and type, with a preference for options that are lightweight and efficient to transport. The market continues to prioritise delivering value and convenience to consumers.
Smaller, single-serve packaging trends across multiple food categories in South Africa
In 2024, South Africa’s food packaging industry is experiencing a clear shift towards smaller, single-serve and portion-controlled pack sizes across multiple categories. This trend is seen across most of the categories in plant-based dairy, processed fruit and vegetables, sauces, dips and condiments, confectionery, and meals and soups. The move towards smaller packs is driven by economic pressures, changing consumption patterns and the growing demand for convenience and affordability. Flexible pouches, brick liquid cartons and resealable bags are among the types gaining popularity, as manufacturers and consumers alike seek packaging solutions that offer practicality, reduce food waste and cater to evolving lifestyles. Alongside this, there is an increasing shift towards paper-based and recyclable packaging solutions, especially in categories like dairy and plant-based beverages, prompted by environmental awareness and regulatory pressures. Multipacks are also seeing growth as households seek value and practicality. Overall, the market is characterised by a dual focus on sustainability and adaptability, with packaging innovations responding to both environmental imperatives.
PET dominance and HDPE growth shape South Africa’s beverage packaging in 2024
South Africa’s non-alcoholic drinks packaging landscape was notably shaped by the rising momentum in recycling and the emergence of HDPE as a key packaging material. Over the past decade, the country has seen significant growth in recycling initiatives, particularly for PET, driven by industry-led voluntary programmes and new infrastructure investments. The launch of advanced PET processing facilities and the effectiveness of organisations like PETCO have enabled higher rates of plastic waste collection and recycling, with positive economic and environmental impacts.
Rising preference for metal beverage cans in alcoholic drinks
Although glass bottles remain the leading pack type, metal beverage cans continued to gain share in South Africa’s alcoholic drinks market in 2024, supported by changing consumption habits, affordability concerns and sustainability priorities. Beer was the largest category where cans and glass bottles competed, with cans seeing stronger growth due to their lighter weight, ease of chilling and suitability for multipack sales. Leading brewers such as South African Breweries relied heavily on cans to support volume growth, while RTDs, one of the fastest-growing categories, favoured cans for single-serve convenience and flavour innovation. In wine, glass bottles continued to dominate premium and gifting occasions, but alternative types, such as canned wine and liquid cartons, gained traction, with retailers like Woolworths introducing canned wine options to appeal to younger consumers seeking portability and affordability. Sustainability considerations reinforced this trend, as aluminium cans were promoted for their recyclability and lower carbon footprint, while glass retained its appeal for its reusability and premium image. Overall, metal beverage cans aligned closely with evolving lifestyles and innovation trends, making them a key driver of packaging growth in alcoholic drinks during 2024.
Premium sustainability through in-mould labelling in beauty packaging
In 2024, sustainability and premiumisation were the main forces shaping beauty and personal care packaging in South Africa. Brands increasingly sought solutions that reduce environmental impact, while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic, driving innovation in materials and design. Among the most notable developments was the rise of In-Mould Labelling (IML) technology, pioneered locally by Teqal, which introduced cosmetic jars and roll-on containers featuring labels integrated during moulding. This approach eliminates secondary decoration processes, reduces plastic waste and improves recyclability, while enabling brands to achieve high-end visual differentiation without costly custom tooling. Teqal claims to operate the largest IML platform for face care containers in South Africa, producing lighter jars that use less polymer and energy, thereby lowering carbon footprints. For example, its 500ml IML jar reportedly consumes significantly less energy during production thanks to streamlined processes. This innovation reflects a broader industry shift towards eco-conscious packaging.
HDPE bottles and larger pack sizes shape home care packaging
Home care packaging in South Africa during 2024 reflected a preference for HDPE bottles, which are widely used across liquid formulations, such as laundry detergents, toilet cleaners, fabric softeners and floor care products. Their durability, light weight and recyclability make them practical for everyday cleaning routines, while compatibility with bulk types addresses consumer demand for value and convenience. A key example is the launch of Mini Matters Probiotic Laundry Liquid Detergent in a 5-litre HDPE bottle, catering to cost-sensitive households and reducing frequent repurchase occasions. Leading brands such as Sunlight, Omo and Ariel continue to use HDPE bottles for detergents and softeners, while Harpic and Toilet Duck apply the format for toilet liquids and foaming products. The gradual shift away from metal aerosol cans highlights the move towards packaging that offers practicality and aligns with evolving consumer expectations for functionality and affordability.
Flexible packaging focuses on convenience through resealable pouches
In 2024, flexible packaging, led by aluminium/plastic pouches, with flexible plastic also playing a key role, accounted for a significant share of dog and cat food packaging in South Africa, reflecting its ability to meet consumer priorities for convenience and practicality. Resealable pouches are a key pack type, offering lightweight, easy-to-store solutions that appeal to urban pet owners and help maintain freshness for bulk purchases. Brands such as Montego and Hill’s Pet Nutrition leverage these features to enhance usability and product longevity. Alongside convenience, sustainability considerations began influencing packaging choices, with some manufacturers introducing recyclable or biodegradable plastic options to address growing eco-consciousness. Flexible packaging also supports attractive, customisable designs, helping products stand out in an increasingly competitive retail environment. This combination of user-friendly types and early steps towards sustainable materials positions flexible packaging as the major format in South Africa’s pet food packaging market.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in South Africa 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 South Africa, 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 South Africa 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 South Africa?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in South Africa?
- 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 South Africa?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in South Africa
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
Evolving packaging shift towards value and everyday convenience
Smaller, single-serve packaging trends across multiple food categories in South Africa
PET dominance and HDPE growth shape South Africa’s beverage packaging in 2024
Rising preference for metal beverage cans in alcoholic drinks
Premium sustainability through in-mould labelling in beauty packaging
HDPE bottles and larger pack sizes shape home care packaging
Flexible packaging focuses on convenience through resealable pouches
Strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations
Mandatory Deposit Return System (DRS) proposed for beverage containers in South Africa
Expansion of circular economy and recycling infrastructure
Tackling plastic pollution through collaborative action
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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