5.5 billion aluminium cans produced worldwide in 2016

Asian markets achieved the highest growth. Even though growth rates were not quite as dynamic as had generally been expected, all things considered there was still an impressive plus of almost 10%. North, Central and South America also reported above-average growth: the successful trend in this region also continued unabated with increased sales of some 5% compared with the previous year. Even the almost saturated European market was stable.

If one looks at the individual product categories and areas of application of aluminium aerosol cans, one finds that deodorants and perfumes are the primary growth drivers. They are continuing to be very popular worldwide and are still opening up new growth potential. They accounted for the lion’s share of all aluminium aerosol cans produced in 2016: somewhat more than 50%.

Other important products and applications in the cosmetics sector are hair sprays, hair mousse and shaving cream. Overall, the personal care sector accounted for about 80% of all aerosol cans produced. Some 10% of production went into industrial and household products and 5% into the pharmaceutical sector.

Pleased with the results, Gregor Spengler, secretary, Aerobal, said the organisation is optimistic about the future. He sees potential for growth in the Asian markets, as the per capita consumption of aerosol cans in the region is still well below the global average.

With regards products and applications, he sees growing markets for products such as shower foams and dry shampoos as well as in the broad field of sunscreen products.

This is not all. “I see clear opportunities for further gains in the pharma sector. Here it is primarily the outstanding functional properties of aluminium aerosol cans that will ensure growth. I am thinking primarily of excellent product protection and best possible safety where aluminium scores over other materials. And especially in the medical sector, the aerosol can with its excellent hygiene standards and its precise application in use offers benefits that other packaging solutions lack,” Spengler said.

He believes that sustainability and environmental aspects will continue to play a major role in the packaging markets. And the aluminium aerosol can is particularly well positioned in that respect:

“There is growing recognition worldwide by both customers and consumers that aluminium is an extremely sustainable material that can be infinitely recycled without any loss in quality. On top of its abundance of functional benefits, this is a further important argument in favour of the aluminium aerosol can, which thus makes a valuable and resource-efficient contribution to the future of our planet,” Spengler added.