Close×

The global packaging market size during the Covid-19 pandemic is projected to grow from US$909.2bn to US$1trn by 2021, according to Covid-19 Impact on Packaging Market – Global Forecast to 2021, a recent report from Research and Markets.

The drivers behind this growth include the increased demand for fast-moving consumer goods and pharmaceutical packaging, and rising ecommerce sales due to lockdowns.

The report said plastic is projected to lead the market during the forecast period. Because demand for many end-use industries is growing, the use of plastic packaging will see a significant rise during the Covid-19 crisis, the report found.

Also, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to be the largest packaging market, at least through next year. The growth in the region is fuelled by the easy availability of packaging raw materials such as plastic, fibre, and glass and the presence of manufacturing facilities of most of the packaging companies. The market sizes estimated in the study were validated through primary interviews conducted with various industry experts globally.

The full report can be bought here.

Food & Drink Business

Ferrero has gained more ground in the US through its acquisition of WK Kellogg for $4.7 billion (US$3.1b). Since 2018, Ferrer has acquired Nestle's US chocolate business for $4.25 billion, Kellogg's cookies and fruit snacks unit for $2 billion, and ice cream company Wells Enterprises.

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) says it won’t oppose Lactalis’ proposed acquisition of Fonterra’s consumer and food service businesses, if the bid goes ahead. While it would see two of the largest buyers of raw milk combine, the ACCC says it is “unlikely” to result in a lessening of competition.

Winners of the 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards have been announced, recognising distilling excellence across Australia and the world. Prohibition Liquor took out the title of Champion Australian Distiller, as well as the Champion Australian Gin trophy.