Aluminium aerosol can industry soars: Global shipments surge by 6% in 2023

In 2023, the International Organisation of Aluminium Aerosol Can Manufacturers (AEROBAL) recorded a 6 per cent growth in global shipments for its members, reaching approximately 6.4 billion units.

Market stability ensures dynamic demand for personal care products

The market's expansion is mainly driven by a notable surge in demand from the hairspray, deodorant, and shaving foam segments, experiencing growth rates of 12 per cent, 9 per cent, and 55 per cent compared to the preceding year. As a whole, personal care products constituted approximately 83 per cent of the total shipments. Conversely, the pharmaceutical sector witnessed a modest increase of around 1 per cent, falling below the average. Meanwhile, deliveries to the food and household products sectors declined by 3 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively.

The demand in the 27 EU member states, including the UK, experienced a 9 per cent increase. Deliveries to both South and North America saw a notable uptick of 10 per cent, constituting approximately 72 per cent of the total deliveries by AEROBAL members. Meanwhile, there was an 11 per cent rise in demand from the African market. However, deliveries to Asia/Australia and the Middle East declined by 2 per cent each.

The competition for skilled labour is fierce, and recycling is designed consistently

AEROBAL Secretary General Gregor Spengler said, "Aluminium aerosol can manufacturers are concerned about the shortage of qualified workers and the associated increases in labour costs. Manufacturers must develop effective strategies to keep know-how carriers in their companies and recruit young talents so that production capacities can continue to be utilised efficiently in the future. There is fierce competition worldwide for well-trained and committed employees."

Customers, consumers, and legislators are increasingly emphasising the paramount importance of maximising the recyclability of packaging in the industry.

"In this context, consistent design for recycling throughout the aerosol can industry's supply chain plays a crucial role in producing sustainable packaging solutions," adds Gregor Spengler.

First-half 2024 outlook is satisfactory

Manufacturers of aluminium aerosol cans are optimistic about the first half of 2024 due to the still high order backlog.

 "Demand is very robust overall. Only the persistently high inflation in the main sales markets worldwide and the associated impact on consumer purchasing power somewhat dampen sentiment in the industry. On the other hand, the convincing sustainability properties of aluminium, which can be recycled almost infinitely, are boosting sales. In this context, the availability of high-quality post-consumer recycling material is becoming an increasing challenge for the aluminium aerosol can industry," concludes Gregor Spengler.

To gain further insights into the market dynamics of various aluminium products, it is opportune to delve into the specialised report provided by AL Circle titled "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024." This industry-focused report offers a comprehensive examination of the aluminium market, shedding light on the specific dynamics and trends, including those pertaining to aluminium aerosol cans.