Nestlé SA, PepsiCo Inc., JBS SA, Tyson Foods, Inc., Anheuser-Busch InBev SA, General Mills, Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, Mars, Incorporated, Mondelēz International, Inc., Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd., among others, are the key players of the Australia food and beverage market.

The Australia food and beverage market is estimated to be valued at AUD 133.45 billion in 2023. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.34% between 2024 and 2032 to reach almost AUD 195.60 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by increasing changes in consumer behaviour including shifting dietary guidelines, growing health concerns, and lifestyle choices.

The Australia food and beverage market includes the production, distribution, and retailing of edible goods and drinks. It is segmented into various categories such as processed foods, fresh foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and functional foods. Participants in this market range from global corporations to small, independent producers.

There is a growing consumer demand for convenience, health benefits, and sustainability, which has increased the popularity of organic, non-GMO, and plant-based products. Consequently, there has been a notable rise in the number of brands focused on sustainable and health-oriented food and beverages. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the apparent consumption of energy drinks increased from 11.8 ML per capita per day in 2021-22 to 12.0 ML per capita per day in 2022-23.

Processed food and beverage products are readily available, offering convenience, long shelf life, and consistent quality to suit busy lifestyles and diverse consumer preferences. These include packaged snacks, canned goods, ready-to-eat meals, and beverages, valued for their easy preparation and accessibility.

Conventional food and beverages are abundant in supermarkets, hypermarkets, grocery stores, and other outlets, making them convenient and affordable. Over time, shifting consumer preferences and behaviours have increased the demand for organic food and beverages, it is perceived as healthier, safer, and more environmentally friendly, thereby driving the growth of the Australia food and beverage market.

Fast Automation, a leading provider of industrial automation services in Australia, specializes in automation projects for the food and beverage industry. Recently, they have been recognized as ABB Robotics Australia's newest Authorized Value Provider (AVP).

Top 10 Food and Beverage Companies in Australia:

Nestlé SA

Nestlé SA, is a global leader in nutrition, health, and wellness, operating in 189 countries. In 2023, the company reported CHF 93.0 billion in sales, driven by organic growth through innovation and efficiency. Nestlé's strategic initiatives include expanding plant-based and health-oriented products, exemplified by the Garden Gourmet and Harvest Gourmet vegan alternatives to fish launched in Europe and Asia.

PepsiCo Inc.

PepsiCo Inc., a global leader in the food and beverage industry, operates extensively in Australia within its APAC region. The company’s diverse portfolio includes brands like Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. In 2023, PepsiCo generated over $86 billion in net revenue. Their strategic initiatives focus on sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation, highlighted by the PepsiCo Positive (pep+) agenda, which promotes environmental sustainability and healthier diets.

JBS SA

JBS SA is a leading global food company specializing in meat processing across beef, poultry, pork, and plant-based products. The company also engages in related businesses such as leather, biodiesel, collagen, and hygiene products. JBS focuses on portfolio expansion and operational optimization to meet the rising global protein demand. It is dedicated to sustainability, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

Tyson Foods, Inc.

Tyson Foods, Inc., a global leader in food production, has a significant presence in Australia. The company offers a diverse range of protein-based and prepared foods under brands like Tyson, Jimmy Dean, and Hillshire Farm. Committed to innovation and operational efficiency, Tyson Foods focuses on sustainability, targeting net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and promoting responsible farming and animal welfare.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA

Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world’s leading brewer, strives to enhance life’s moments and create a positive impact through innovation. With a heritage of over 600 years, the company brews premium beers, including Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois, among its 500+ diverse brands. Operating globally, from Belgium to the U.S. and beyond, it employs around 167,000 people across nearly 50 countries, maintaining a strong presence in both developed and emerging markets.

General Mills, Inc.

General Mills, Inc. is a leading global food company that produces and markets branded consumer foods. Driven by its Accelerate strategy, the company focuses on building strong brands, innovation, leveraging scale, and sustainable practices. In 2023, General Mills contributed $90 million to charitable causes and achieved zero-waste-to-landfill status in 41% of its global facilities, underscoring its commitment to community and environmental efforts.

The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company, a global leader in the beverage industry, reported strong financial performance in 2023. Its diverse product portfolio includes over 500 brands, such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Minute Maid, and Costa Coffee, spanning sparkling soft drinks, water, sports drinks, juices, dairy, plant-based beverages, tea, and coffee. Operating in over 200 countries and territories, Coca-Cola focuses on innovation and sustainability, investing in new product lines and digital transformation to improve efficiency.

Mars, Incorporated

Mars, Incorporated, a globally recognized family-owned business established over a century ago, offers a diverse portfolio in confectionery, pet care, food, and drinks. The company owns iconic brands like M&M's, Snickers, Mars bars, Pedigree, and Whiskas. Mars prioritizes innovation, expanding into plant-based products and alternative proteins. They have introduced vegan products and developed new food technologies, such as precision fermentation for animal-free dairy.

Mondelēz International, Inc.

Mondelēz International, Inc. is a leading global snacking company, known for its diverse range of products including biscuits, chocolate, gum, candy, and powdered beverages. In 2023, the company saw a 14.4% increase in net revenues due to strong organic growth and pricing strategies. Committed to sustainability, Mondelēz aims to reduce energy, water, and waste in production. Notable brands include Oreo, Ritz, LU, Clif Bar, and Cadbury. Operating in nearly 150 countries, the company employs around 80,000 people worldwide.

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd.

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd., is a global leader in beer, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and food. Known for innovation and quality, their renowned brands include Asahi Super Dry, Pilsner Urquell, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Kozel, and Grolsch. With operations across Europe, Japan, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, Asahi produces over 10 billion litres of beverages annually, generating revenues surpassing JPY 2.5 trillion.