Read your April 2025 Food & Beverage Reporter Magazine

For the first time, South Africa has broken into the top 10 of Kearney’s Emerging Markets FDI Confidence Index, climbing from 17th in 2023 to 7th in 2025. This surge in investor optimism is driven by improved energy stability—highlighted by over 300 days without load shedding—structural reforms at Eskom and Transnet, and growing excitement around green hydrogen. While mining remains a cornerstone of investment, the country’s shift toward renewable energy and infrastructure reform is attracting global attention. However, fresh concerns—like new U.S. tariffs—may test this renewed confidence in the months ahead.

This issue captures that momentum and dives into the stories driving South Africa’s evolving industrial and manufacturing landscape. From productivity gains to innovation in food and beverage, we unpack the elements shaping the nation’s economic narrative.

We spotlight Heat and Control South Africa, offering insights into how manufacturers can boost efficiency while cutting costs—a vital balance in today’s competitive environment. SK ChemTrade explores how natural colours in food are more than just a trend; they represent a consumer-driven demand for authenticity and simplicity. Complementing this, Exberry examines the power of colour to spark innovation in the salty snack sector.

Across the Atlantic, Sidel’s Super Combi is helping Coca-Cola FEMSA scale up production in Jundiaí, Brazil—providing inspiration for automation potential closer to home. Back in South Africa, we also explore how AI is reshaping food and beverage manufacturing, unlocking new levels of precision and productivity.

And, in celebration of World Cheese Day, we pay tribute to South Africa’s excellence in cheese production—using it as a lens to explore the broader state of food production and sustainability in the country.

It’s a moment of change, challenge, and above all—opportunity. Let’s dig in.

Stay ahead of the trends—dive into the latest insights in this month’s edition of Food & Beverage Reporter.

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For for any advertising or editorial queries or contributions or to request our media pack for 2025 contact us at wendy@fbreporter.co.za and editor@fbreporter.co.za 

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