It’s amazing how the consumer’s view of a whole sector of our industry can change in such a short space of time.
Nobody had a good word to say about the aerosol industry a decade ago. Tarred with the CFC threat, it found few friends in environmental circles and it was accused of contributing to the hole in the ozone layer. It was regarded as a necessary evil.
Today, the finger of suspicion no longer points towards the aerosol manufacturer. The industry has since cleaned up its act. No longer do aerosol manufacturers crave anonymity. In fact they are eager to shout about new technology, innovative shapes and vibrant printing.
Aerosol packs shout out for recognition from the supermarket shelves throughout Europe where the industry has experienced steady growth. Only in parochial American states is the aerosol still viewed with suspicion.
Fashion has also played a role in shaping the development of this sector. For example, there are two reasons why the demand for hair spray has fallen. Women are using less hair spray, basically because the demand for fixed hairstyles has gone. Secondly, there is a plethora of other products that people can use including gels.
But fashion is not the reserve of the fairer sex. Many of the new actuators are used on ranges of products designed for men who are more likely to be attracted by gadgets.
These developments, combined with superior graphics, have turned around consumers’ perceptions of aerosols – they are now regarded as modern and appealing.
There is also some innovation going on in air fresheners and also the DIY market. The food sector has begun to show more of an interest in the aerosol pack, particularly for cream in Europe.
In America, the aerosol is used for such things as mayonnaise and cheese spreads, cooking oil and pan sprays and, in Japan, they are used for coffee and other beverages! Back in dear old Blighty colourings for icing sugar and dough are now available in an aerosol.
What of the hole in the ozone layer? It no longer exists!