Read your October 2025 Food & Beverage Reporter Magazine

As we look ahead to 2026, innovation remains the heartbeat of South Africa’s food and beverage industry — not just in product development, but across the entire value chain. From digital transformation to sustainability breakthroughs, this sector continues to prove that progress and purpose can go hand in hand.

However, with growing digital integration comes an equally urgent challenge: the rise of cybercrime within the food and beverage processing chain. Protecting data, systems, and operational continuity is no longer optional — it’s essential to safeguarding consumer trust and business resilience.

Profitability, too, is being redefined. Smart financial management is as innovative as any new product launch. Indirect tax incentives remain a powerful, often underutilised tool to enhance margins and competitiveness. With the correct implementation of VAT provisions — supported by robust compliance and meticulous record-keeping — VAT vendors can significantly reduce their overall tax burden while driving growth with confidence.

Innovation is also thriving on the sustainability front. When industry partners set out to prove that recycled plastic isn’t a compromise but an opportunity, the results are inspiring. The new Kitchen Honey bottle, a collaboration between Bowler Packaging and rPET supplier Extrupet, launched exclusively with Shoprite Checkers’ The Kitchen private-label range, is made from 100% food-grade rPET using a wash-off PP label — a perfect example of design meeting environmental responsibility. Read more here.

Sustainability continues to take root across the value chain. At Nederburg, a closed-loop vinegar system has reduced reliance on municipal water, saving 4,500 cubic meters annually — while also delivering a higher grape yield and improved fruit quality. Meanwhile, Rugani Juice has emerged as South Africa’s benchmark for transparency, setting the bar for authenticity and integrity in product storytelling.

The year ahead promises even more change, challenge, and opportunity. Now is the time to secure your brand’s place in the conversations that matter most.

Start planning your 2026 advertising strategy with Food & Beverage Reporter today — and position your business at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and growth.

If you have any news, trends, tech improvements, or just celebrating that special company anniversary, talk to us. 

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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 

Browse the Flip Version Below, or Click the Green Download Icon to Download your October copy of the FBR Magazine in PDF format