智通财经网·2025-09-05 09:23Core Viewpoint - The metal packaging two-piece can industry is currently at a historical low in profitability, with a gross margin in the low single digits, but has significant potential for recovery due to industry consolidation and an improved competitive landscape [1][2] Industry Overview - The two-piece can industry is characterized by stable downstream demand and cash flow, with aluminum constituting approximately 70% of production costs. The primary downstream demand comes from beer (50%-60%) and carbonated beverages (20%-30%) [2] - The CAGR for beer can demand in China from 2019 to 2024 is approximately 4%, driven by an increase in canning rates, which have risen from 21.2% in 2016 to 29.6% in 2024, still below the global average of 43.8% and developed countries' levels of 60-70% [2] Profitability and Market Dynamics - The industry is currently at a profitability bottom, with the recent consolidation expected to gradually improve profitability. The acquisition of COFCO by Orijin in January 2025 has increased the market concentration from CR4=75% to CR3=75%, with Orijin's market share approaching 40% [2][3] - Historical data shows that after the last round of consolidation from 2017 to 2019, the industry's gross margin recovered to over 10%, with leading companies achieving gross margins of 13% (Baosteel Packaging), 10% (Orijin), and 17% (COFCO Packaging) in 2019 [3] Comparison with Other Industries - The current situation in the two-piece can industry is likened to the cement industry's price increase cycle from 2016 to 2021, indicating a potential for price increases due to supply constraints, industry consolidation, and demand growth. However, the lack of a cost increase trigger is noted as a missing factor for immediate price hikes [3] - The two-piece can industry's downstream demand is less cyclical compared to the cement industry, with a steady increase in demand as canning rates rise, but the high concentration in the beer market gives downstream players relatively strong bargaining power [3]