The mageu market gained substantial volume growth during 2015 after the decline that was seen in 2014, according to research done by BMi Research.

Mageu is a popular non-alcoholic staple food-drink and is often used to replace a meal. Many consumers consider mageu a favourable drink because of its nutritional benefits and substitute it for a meal-on-the-go as it is low in calories and fat, yet filling and believed to boost and sustain energy levels.

During 2014, with instability and strikes amongst mine workers, a decline in sales of mageu was noted, but in 2015 conditions in this sector returned to normal and the sales of mageu picked up.

With this improved stability, innovative and visually appealing packaging as well as new flavour offerings; not only was more mageu consumed, but growth was also seen among younger consumers.

Although 2015 brought with it increases in fuel, electricity and transportation costs that contributed to increased production costs, this inflation was not sufficient to deter growth. The noticeable pricing increase also contributed to the significant growth value seen in 2015.

Mageu’s primary packaging remains the carton, with consumers favouring the innovative turn top packaging as it makes it easier to drink from, lessens spillage and is re-sealable for later consumption. The 500ml remains the preferred size for immediate consumption and together with the 1 litre, volumes are driven through these pack sizes.