ALPLA has inaugurated a €60 million recycling facility in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, marking its entry into South Africa’s PET recycling market. Spanning 90,000 square meters, the plant aims to produce up to 35,000 tonnes of recycled PET (rPET) annually starting in 2025, contributing to the country’s circular economy and meeting growing demands for sustainable packaging solutions.
The facility, part of ALPLA’s recycling division, will supply mechanically recycled rPET flakes and food-safe rPET pellets. “Our plant will increase the supply of rPET in the national market, benefiting the beverage industry with high-quality material while supporting compliance with legal requirements,” said Dietmar Marin, Managing Director of ALPLArecycling.
South Africa’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulation mandates PET beverage bottles contain at least 10% recycled material since 2022, with this requirement set to rise to 20% by 2026. ALPLA’s investment aligns with these regulations and promotes a circular economy.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on October 31, ALPLA CEO Philipp Lehner emphasized the strategic importance of South Africa. “Together with our customers and partners, we aim to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable packaging while improving living standards. This investment lays a foundation for a successful future,” he stated.
The facility’s capacity includes 16,000 tonnes of rPET pellets, supported by a state-of-the-art extrusion line, with provisions for future expansion. An additional 30,000 square meters at the site could accommodate a second extrusion line, further enhancing output.
The Ballito plant complements ALPLA’s Lanseria facility, opened in 2022, which processes the recycled material into PET preforms for beverage bottles. According to Plant Manager Gerhard Meyringer, the plant will work closely with local collection programs to reduce waste and strengthen the recycling infrastructure in the region.
Local officials lauded ALPLA’s contribution to industrial development and job creation. “ALPLA’s involvement accelerates industrialization, supports UN Sustainable Development Goals, and attracts other companies along the value chain,” said Sihle Ngcamu, CEO of Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal.