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Glass Bottle Manufacturers in Kenya

Contents hide

1 Part 1: Market Size and Growth

2 Part 2: Leading Companies

2.1 Kenya Bottling Company (KBC Glass Division)

2.2 Milly Glass Works Limited

2.3 Nairobi Glassware Ltd.

3 Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

3.1 Propak East Africa

3.2 Food & Beverage Manufacturing Expo Kenya

4 Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

5 Part 5: Conclusion

Part 1: Market Size and Growth

Kenya’s glass bottle industry has grown steadily, fueled by the demand for beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Beer, soft drinks, spirits, and juices remain the largest markets for glass bottles. With the rise of local breweries and increased export of beverages, the need for reliable glass packaging has become more important.

Glass bottles are valued for being recyclable and environmentally friendly. In Kenya, glass also plays a role in premium packaging for spirits and cosmetics, which helps local brands compete internationally. The demand for sustainable packaging has boosted investment in new facilities and technologies.

Government policies that encourage local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports have further supported the industry. Kenya’s position as a regional hub makes it an attractive location for supplying glass bottles to East Africa.

Part 2: Leading Companies

Kenya Bottling Company (KBC Glass Division)

Kenya Bottling Company, widely known for its role in the beverage industry, also operates glass bottle production lines. Based in Nairobi, it supports both domestic beverage companies and exports within East Africa.

The company produces bottles for beer, soft drinks, and spirits. Its high production capacity ensures consistency and reliability for large-scale beverage brands.

KBC follows strict quality standards and has ISO certifications. It also invests in recycling programs to reduce environmental impact.

Milly Glass Works Limited

Milly Glass Works Limited is one of the oldest and most established glass manufacturers in Kenya, founded in Mombasa in the 1950s. It has long served as a major supplier of bottles for beverages and food packaging.

The company produces soda bottles, beer bottles, water bottles, and jars for food products. It is known for supplying both local and regional markets with durable and affordable glass packaging.

Milly Glass Works emphasizes sustainable practices and has invested in modern machinery to increase efficiency. It holds certifications for quality and environmental compliance.

Nairobi Glassware Ltd.

Nairobi Glassware Ltd. focuses on specialty glass packaging, serving the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Founded in recent decades, it has gained recognition for its flexibility and custom solutions.

The company offers perfume bottles, small vials, and decorative containers for premium products. Its customization services make it popular among boutique brands and small-scale producers.

It adheres to international standards for pharmaceutical packaging and provides eco-friendly options. Nairobi Glassware has received awards for design innovation in the cosmetic packaging sector.

Company	Founded	Core Products	Industries	Certifications
Kenya Bottling Company (Glass Division)	20th century	Beer, soda, spirits bottles	Beverage	ISO
Milly Glass Works Limited	1950s	Beverage bottles, jars	Food, beverage	Quality & environmental
Nairobi Glassware Ltd.	~1990s	Perfume, pharma bottles	Cosmetics, pharma	Design & innovation awards

Part 3: Trade Shows and Industry Events

Propak East Africa

Propak East Africa is the largest packaging, plastics, and printing exhibition in the region. Glass bottle manufacturers and distributors regularly attend to showcase their innovations.

The event is held annually in Nairobi, attracting exhibitors from Kenya and international markets. It provides opportunities for Kenyan companies to connect with regional buyers and explore global packaging trends.

Highlights include sustainable packaging solutions, new machinery, and networking with international suppliers.

Food & Beverage Manufacturing Expo Kenya

This event focuses on the food and beverage sector, including packaging innovations. Glass bottle producers often participate to display their beverage packaging solutions.

Held in Nairobi, the expo attracts beverage brands, distributors, and packaging suppliers. It emphasizes innovation in food and drink manufacturing, including eco-friendly glass packaging.

Highlights include design innovations, networking sessions, and industry workshops.

Event	Date	Location	Highlights
Propak East Africa	Annual	Nairobi, Kenya	Packaging innovation, sustainability
Food & Beverage Manufacturing Expo Kenya	Annual	Nairobi, Kenya	Beverage packaging, industry workshops

Part 4: Impact of Global Trade Policies

Kenya’s glass bottle industry is influenced by regional trade agreements such as the East African Community (EAC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These agreements open new export opportunities across Africa.

However, high energy costs and imported raw materials increase production expenses. Local producers often face competition from imported glass bottles, especially from Asia and the Middle East.

Sustainability standards and global demand for eco-friendly packaging create both pressure and opportunities. Kenyan companies are responding by adopting recycling programs and lightweight bottle designs.

Part 5: Conclusion

The glass bottle industry in Kenya is growing, supported by strong demand from beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Companies like Milly Glass Works, KBC, and Nairobi Glassware are driving innovation and sustainability.

Challenges such as energy costs and international competition remain. Yet, Kenya’s strategic position in East Africa and its commitment to modern manufacturing make it well-placed for long-term growth.