Introduction
In 2023, the aerosol can market is undergoing a major transformation, driven by a confluence of macroeconomic factors such as technological advancements, regulatory changes, and changes in customer behavior. The aerosol can is evolving in terms of both efficiency and sturdiness, while regulatory requirements are driving manufacturers to use more sustainable materials and manufacturing processes. The increased convenience and mobility of consumers is causing the demand for aerosol products to rise across many sectors, including personal care, home care, and industrial applications. These trends are of strategic importance for companies as they maneuver the competitive landscape, adjust to regulatory changes, and align their products with the preferences of consumers.
Top Trends
- Sustainability Initiatives
The aerosol can market is increasingly focusing on the issue of sustainable development. For example, the Ball Group is committing itself to producing only containers that are 100% recyclate. Also, governments are promoting the concept of eco-friendly packaging, and the demand for recyclate has risen by 20%. It is therefore not surprising that the manufacturers are investing in the greening of their production processes. Future developments may well include the production of biodegradable aerosol cans, which will further contribute to the fulfilment of the global sustainable development goals.
- Smart Packaging Technology
The aerosols are getting smarter, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is being used to improve the experience of the end users. Aptar is developing smart dispensing systems that will provide real-time usage data. This trend will lead to an increase in customer engagement and brand loyalty. More than 60% of consumers are interested in smart packaging. Future developments may even lead to fully automatic dispensing solutions, which would revolutionize the market.
- Increased Demand for Personal Care Products
The aerosol market is driven by the personal care market, which is projected to grow by 15% in 2023. The industry's leaders have reacted by expanding their product range to include more aerosol-based personal care products. The trend is changing the production priorities. This will eventually lead to a wider range of personal care applications and to increased market share.
- Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards
In the same way, governments are adopting more stringent standards in order to reduce the harmful effects of aerosols on the environment. For example, the European Union has imposed regulations on manufacturers that oblige them to comply with certain safety standards. This is becoming a major factor in the cost of production and the design of products. Consequently, it is likely that there will be a greater investment in compliance technology in the future.
- Expansion of Food and Beverage Applications
In the field of food, aerosol cans are increasingly used, especially for whipping cream and cooking spray. The trend is supported by a ten percent increase in the use of convenient food packages. Crown Holdings and other companies profit from this trend by developing new aerosols that are suitable for food. These new products and the expected growth in the field of aerosols could lead to new product groups and higher consumer convenience.
- Shift Towards Aluminum Cans
AEROPOSTILLAS are gaining ground, being light and easily recycled. The use of aluminum aerosol cans is expected to increase by 25 per cent in 2023. A demand for more sustainable packaging has made companies change from traditional materials. The impact on production lines is to adapt to aluminum, which could lead to savings. In the future, the design of aluminum cans could be improved to optimize their use.
- Growth in Industrial Applications
The industrial sector is using aerosols for lubricants and cleaning agents more and more, with a 12% growth in this market in 2023. In this context, aerosol companies are developing specialized formulations for industrial use. The aerosol is thus redefining the market by increasing the efficiency of industrial operations. This may lead to the development of more advanced aerosol products, which will widen the scope of the market.
- E-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Sales
The development of e-commerce has had a considerable effect on the aerosol market, which in 2023 was said to have increased by 30 per cent. The companies have adapted their distribution strategies to the new situation, and have improved their packaging for mail order. This trend has changed the way people buy, giving greater priority to convenience. Future developments may include new packaging concepts that are designed specifically for e-commerce, and this may lead to a further increase in the market.
- Innovations in Dispensing Mechanisms
But the aerosol dispenser is not to be left behind. Silgan Holdings is introducing precision spraying. It is expected to increase performance and satisfaction, and lead to a 15 per cent increase in repeat purchases. The operational impact includes the need for investment in R&D to develop the technology. In the future, there will be an option to tailor the dispenser to individual requirements.
- Focus on Health and Hygiene Products
The aerosol products for hygiene and health have been in great demand, especially since the outbreak of the epidemic, and there has been a twenty per cent increase in the sale of disinfectants. Companies are broadening their range of products to include more hygiene-related aerosols. This trend has affected the strategic plans of manufacturers, who are giving priority to products with health-related applications. In the future, new formulations will be developed which will improve the products’ performance and safety.
Conclusion: Navigating the Aerosol Can Market Landscape
Competition in the aerosol can market in 2023 is characterized by a fragmented and regionally varying environment. Both established and emerging players compete for market share. Brands with a long history in the market are able to rely on their distribution and brand strength to compete against new entrants that are able to focus on innovation and sustainable products to gain market share. Suppliers need to focus on the development of capabilities in automation and artificial intelligence to increase efficiency and agility. Furthermore, the ability to respond to consumers' demands for sustainable products will be crucial for market leadership. The companies that succeed in integrating flexibility into their production processes and putting their money into sustainable products will be the ones that will be in the best position to lead the market.