Market Overview
The GCC PET Packaging Market refers to the market for Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) packaging products in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. PET packaging has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its favorable properties, including lightweight, transparency, durability, and recyclability. The GCC region, which comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has witnessed substantial growth in various industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. As a result, the demand for PET packaging solutions has been on the rise.
Meaning
GCC PET Packaging Market refers to the market where Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) packaging products are manufactured, distributed, and consumed in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. PET packaging is widely used across industries due to its lightweight, transparency, durability, and recyclability features. The market encompasses the production and utilization of PET bottles, containers, trays, and other packaging solutions for various applications.
Executive Summary
The GCC PET Packaging Market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for packaging solutions in the region’s food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries. The market offers a wide range of PET packaging products, including bottles, containers, and trays, catering to the diverse needs of different sectors. With a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging, PET packaging has gained prominence due to its recyclability and environmental advantages. This report provides comprehensive insights into the GCC PET Packaging Market, including key market trends, drivers, restraints, opportunities, and future outlook.
Important Note: The companies listed in the image above are for reference only. The final study will cover 18โ20 key players in this market, and the list can be adjusted based on our clientโs requirements.
Key Market Insights
- Growing demand for PET packaging: The GCC region has witnessed a surge in demand for PET packaging due to its lightweight nature, transparency, and recyclability. The convenience and cost-effectiveness of PET packaging have made it a preferred choice for various industries.
- Expanding food and beverages industry: The flourishing food and beverages industry in the GCC countries has created a significant demand for PET packaging. PET bottles are widely used for packaging water, carbonated drinks, juices, and other beverages, while PET containers are utilized for packaging sauces, condiments, and edible oils.
- Increasing focus on sustainability: With growing environmental concerns, there is a strong emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions. PET packaging is highly recyclable, reducing the carbon footprint and promoting a circular economy.
- Technological advancements: Advancements in PET packaging technology, such as improved barrier properties and innovative designs, have further boosted the market growth. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of PET packaging products.
- Rising disposable income and changing lifestyles: The increasing disposable income and changing lifestyles of consumers in the GCC region have led to a higher demand for convenience foods, ready-to-drink beverages, and personal care products, thereby driving the growth of the PET packaging market.
Market Drivers
- Growing population and urbanization: The GCC region is experiencing rapid population growth and urbanization, leading to increased consumption of packaged products. This demographic trend has propelled the demand for PET packaging across various industries.
- Expansion of retail and e-commerce sectors: The expansion of retail and e-commerce sectors in the GCC countries has resulted in higher demand for efficient and attractive packaging solutions. PET packaging offers advantages such as product visibility, durability, and ease of transportation, making it an ideal choice for online and offline retail.
- Government initiatives promoting sustainability: Governments in the GCC region are taking proactive measures to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste. These initiatives, including recycling campaigns and regulations on single-use plastics, are driving the adoption of PET packaging as a more environmentally friendly alternative.
- Focus on convenience and product differentiation: Manufacturers are increasingly adopting PET packaging to enhance convenience features such as resealability and portability. Additionally, PET packaging allows for creative design options, enabling product differentiation and brand recognition in the market.
- Favorable properties of PET packaging: PET packaging offers several advantages, including lightweight, shatter resistance, and excellent barrier properties against moisture and oxygen. These properties make it suitable for preserving the freshness and quality of perishable products, leading to increased demand.
Market Restraints
- Fluctuating raw material prices: The prices of raw materials used in PET packaging, such as crude oil and ethylene glycol, are subject to volatility. Fluctuations in raw material prices can impact the production costs of PET packaging products, posing a challenge for market players.
- Environmental concerns: Although PET packaging is recyclable, the improper disposal and lack of recycling infrastructure in some GCC countries can hinder the recycling rates. Environmental concerns related to plastic waste management may pose challenges to the growth of the PET packaging market.
- Competition from alternative packaging materials: PET packaging faces competition from alternative materials such as glass, aluminum, and paper-based packaging solutions. These materials offer unique properties and are preferred in certain applications, limiting the growth potential of PET packaging in those segments.
- Stringent regulations: The GCC countries have implemented regulations and standards related to packaging materials and sustainability. Compliance with these regulations, including labeling requirements and recycling targets, can be complex and costly for market participants, acting as a restraint for the PET packaging market.
- Limited local manufacturing capabilities: The GCC region relies on imports for a significant portion of PET packaging products. Limited local manufacturing capabilities and dependence on external suppliers can impact the availability and pricing of PET packaging solutions, affecting market growth.
Market Opportunities
- Growing demand for pharmaceutical packaging: The GCC countries have witnessed a rise in the demand for pharmaceutical products, driven by factors such as population growth, improved healthcare infrastructure, and rising healthcare expenditure. PET packaging provides a safe and efficient solution for pharmaceutical products, creating opportunities for market expansion.
- Increasing focus on sustainable packaging solutions: The increasing awareness and importance of sustainability in the GCC region present opportunities for PET packaging manufacturers to position themselves as eco-friendly suppliers. By emphasizing recyclability, reduced carbon footprint, and use of bio-based materials, companies can tap into the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
- Technological advancements in PET packaging: Continuous technological advancements in PET packaging, such as improved barrier properties, active packaging features, and intelligent packaging solutions, open up new avenues for market growth. Manufacturers can invest in research and development to enhance the functionality and add value to PET packaging products.
- Collaboration with recycling and waste management companies: Collaborating with recycling and waste management companies can help PET packaging manufacturers establish a closed-loop system for recycling and promote sustainable practices. This collaboration can address the environmental concerns associated with PET packaging and create a competitive advantage in the market.
- Expansion of the hospitality and tourism sector: The GCC region is known for its hospitality and tourism industry. The growth of this sector creates opportunities for PET packaging, particularly in hotel amenities, travel-size products, and in-flight catering. The convenience, lightweight, and aesthetic appeal of PET packaging make it an ideal choice for these applications.
Market Dynamics
The GCC PET Packaging Market is driven by a combination of market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. The market dynamics are influenced by factors such as population growth, urbanization, technological advancements, government initiatives, and changing consumer preferences. While the demand for PET packaging is fueled by its favorable properties and applications across various industries, challenges related to raw material prices, environmental concerns, and competition from alternative materials need to be addressed. Expanding sectors such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce present significant opportunities for market growth. Manufacturers can leverage these dynamics to develop innovative PET packaging solutions, enhance sustainability practices, and cater to the evolving needs of consumers and industries.
Regional Analysis
The GCC PET Packaging Market can be analyzed on a regional basis, considering the individual countries that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council. The GCC region comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Each country has its own market dynamics and specific factors influencing the demand for PET packaging.
- Bahrain: The petrochemical industry in Bahrain plays a significant role in the production of PET packaging materials. The country’s strategic location and access to export markets contribute to the growth of the PET packaging market.
- Kuwait: Kuwait has a well-established petrochemical sector, which supports the production of raw materials for PET packaging. The country’s focus on diversifying its economy and expanding its manufacturing capabilities present opportunities for the PET packaging market.
- Oman: Oman’s growing food and beverages industry and increasing investments in the pharmaceutical sector drive the demand for PET packaging. The government’s initiatives to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste provide impetus to the PET packaging market in Oman.
- Qatar: Qatar’s booming construction and infrastructure sectors create demand for PET packaging products used in building materials, including bottles and containers for construction chemicals. The country’s commitment to hosting major events and exhibitions further drives the demand for PET packaging.
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia is one of the largest consumers of PET packaging in the GCC region. The country’s expanding food and beverages industry, rapid urbanization, and large population contribute to the market growth. The government’s initiatives to promote local manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports also support the PET packaging market in Saudi Arabia.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE is a major market for PET packaging in the GCC region. The country’s vibrant retail sector, significant investments in tourism and hospitality, and growing e-commerce industry drive the demand for PET packaging solutions. The UAE’s focus on sustainability and hosting global events like Expo 2020 Dubai create opportunities for the PET packaging market.
Understanding the regional dynamics and specific market characteristics of each GCC country is crucial for PET packaging manufacturers and stakeholders to effectively cater to the diverse needs and capitalize on the growth prospects in the region.
Competitive Landscape
Leading Companies in the GCC PET Packaging Market:
- ALPLA Group
- Gulf Plastic Industries Co.
- Arabian Packaging Co. LLC
- Saudi Plastic Factory Co. Ltd.
- Emirates National Factory for Plastic Industries (ENPI)
- Almuftah Packaging
- Mulk Holdings
- Precision Plastic Products Co. LLC
- Qatar Plastic Products Company W.L.L.
- PETROGULF W.L.L.
Please note: This is a preliminary list; the final study will feature 18โ20 leading companies in this market. The selection of companies in the final report can be customized based on our client’s specific requirements.
The GCC PET Packaging Market can be segmented based on various factors such as product type, end-use industry, and region.
Based on product type, the market can be segmented as follows:
- PET Bottles: PET bottles are extensively used for packaging beverages, including water, carbonated drinks, juices, and sports drinks. The demand for PET bottles is driven by their lightweight nature, durability, and ability to preserve the freshness and quality of the packaged products.
- PET Containers: PET containers find applications in packaging sauces, condiments, edible oils, personal care products, and household chemicals. These containers provide convenience, ease of handling, and product visibility, making them popular in various industries.
- PET Trays: PET trays are widely used for packaging fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, and ready-to-eat meals. They offer excellent product protection, enhance shelf appeal, and ensure the efficient display of products in retail environments.
Based on end-use industry, the market can be segmented as follows:
- Food and Beverages: The food and beverages industry is the largest consumer of PET packaging in the GCC region. The demand for PET packaging in this sector is driven by factors such as increasing consumption of packaged food and beverages, growing tourism and hospitality sector, and the need for attractive and functional packaging solutions.
- Pharmaceuticals: PET packaging is gaining prominence in the pharmaceutical industry due to its ability to provide product integrity, tamper-evident features, and resistance to moisture and oxygen. PET bottles and containers are used for packaging medications, syrups, vitamins, and other pharmaceutical products.
- Personal Care and Cosmetics: PET packaging is widely utilized in the personal care and cosmetics industry for packaging products such as shampoos, lotions, creams, and perfumes. PET bottles and containers offer convenience, aesthetic appeal, and compatibility with a wide range of formulations.
- Household Products: PET packaging is employed for packaging household cleaning agents, detergents, and other household products. PET bottles and containers in this segment focus on functionality, durability, and ease of use.
Based on region, the market can be segmented into Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Each country has its own market dynamics, consumer preferences, and industry trends, influencing the demand for PET packaging products.
Understanding the segmentation of the GCC PET Packaging Market enables companies to identify target markets, develop customized strategies, and cater to the specific requirements of different industries and regions.
Category-wise Insights
- PET Packaging for Food and Beverages: PET packaging plays a crucial role in the food and beverages industry in the GCC region. PET bottles are the preferred choice for packaging water, carbonated drinks, juices, and other beverages due to their lightweight nature, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. PET containers are used for packaging sauces, condiments, edible oils, and other food products. PET trays are utilized for packaging fresh produce, meat, and ready-to-eat meals. The focus on convenience, product visibility, and sustainability drives the demand for PET packaging in this category.
- PET Packaging for Pharmaceuticals: PET packaging is gaining traction in the pharmaceutical industry due to its excellent barrier properties, product integrity, and safety features. PET bottles and containers provide a reliable packaging solution for medications, syrups, vitamins, and other pharmaceutical products. The emphasis on product protection, tamper-evident features, and compatibility with various formulations drives the adoption of PET packaging in this category.
- PET Packaging for Personal Care and Cosmetics: The personal care and cosmetics industry in the GCC region utilizes PET packaging for a wide range of products, including shampoos, lotions, creams, and perfumes. PET bottles and containers offer aesthetic appeal, convenience, and compatibility with different formulations. The focus on product visibility, branding, and consumer convenience drives the demand for PET packaging in this category.
- PET Packaging for Household Products: PET packaging is employed for packaging household cleaning agents, detergents, and other household products. PET bottles and containers in this category prioritize functionality, durability, and ease of use. The focus on convenience, product safety, and compatibility with different formulations drive the demand for PET packaging in this segment.
Understanding the specific insights and requirements of each category enables manufacturers to develop tailored PET packaging solutions, meet industry standards, and cater to the diverse needs of different sectors.
Key Benefits for Industry Participants and Stakeholders
- Wide Range of Applications: The GCC PET Packaging Market offers a wide range of applications across industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and household products. Industry participants can benefit from the diverse customer base and tap into multiple sectors for revenue generation.
- Lightweight and Convenience: PET packaging is lightweight, making it cost-effective for transportation and logistics. The convenience of PET packaging, such as easy handling, portability, and resealability, enhances the user experience and consumer satisfaction.
- Product Visibility and Branding: PET packaging allows for product visibility, enabling consumers to see the contents, colors, and textures of the packaged products. This enhances the branding and marketing efforts of companies, promoting product differentiation and brand recognition.
- Sustainability and Recyclability: PET packaging is highly recyclable, contributing to environmental sustainability. Industry participants can emphasize the recyclability and eco-friendly aspects of PET packaging to meet consumer preferences for sustainable products and align with government regulations.
- Technological Advancements: The continuous technological advancements in PET packaging, such as improved barrier properties, active packaging features, and intelligent packaging solutions, provide industry participants with opportunities to innovate and differentiate their products in the market.
- Growing Market Demand: The GCC region is experiencing population growth, urbanization, and an expanding consumer base. This drives the demand for packaged products, creating opportunities for industry participants to provide PET packaging solutions to meet the increasing market needs.
Industry participants and stakeholders in the GCC PET Packaging Market can leverage these key benefits to drive growth, enhance customer satisfaction, and remain competitive in the market. By understanding the unique advantages of PET packaging, companies can develop strategies to capitalize on the market opportunities and meet the evolving demands of consumers and industries.
SWOT Analysis
A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the GCC PET Packaging Market’s internal and external factors that influence its growth and performance.
- Strengths:
- Favorable properties of PET packaging, such as lightweight, transparency, and recyclability, making it suitable for various applications.
- Growing demand for PET packaging in the food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries.
- Technological advancements in PET packaging, improving barrier properties, and enhancing product functionality.
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions, driving the adoption of PET packaging.
- Wide range of applications and diverse customer base, offering growth opportunities for industry participants.
- Weaknesses:
- Fluctuating raw material prices, impacting the production costs of PET packaging products.
- Environmental concerns related to plastic waste management and recycling rates.
- Competition from alternative packaging materials such as glass, aluminum, and paper-based solutions.
- Stringent regulations and compliance requirements, increasing complexity and costs for market participants.
- Dependence on imports for a significant portion of PET packaging products, affecting availability and pricing.
- Opportunities:
- Growing demand for pharmaceutical packaging due to population growth and increased healthcare expenditure.
- Increasing focus on sustainable packaging solutions and emphasis on recyclability and reduced carbon footprint.
- Technological advancements in PET packaging, such as improved barrier properties and active packaging features.
- Collaboration with recycling and waste management companies to establish a closed-loop system for PET packaging.
- Expansion of the hospitality and tourism sector, creating opportunities for PET packaging in hotel amenities and travel-size products.
- Threats:
- Fluctuating raw material prices and the volatility of the petrochemical industry.
- Environmental concerns and regulations related to plastic waste management.
- Competition from alternative packaging materials and changing consumer preferences.
- Complex and costly compliance with regulations and labeling requirements.
- Limited local manufacturing capabilities and dependence on external suppliers.
Understanding the SWOT analysis helps industry participants and stakeholders identify strengths to leverage, weaknesses to address, opportunities to capitalize on, and threats to mitigate in the GCC PET Packaging Market. By developing strategies that align with the market dynamics and overcoming challenges, companies can position themselves for sustainable growth and success.
Market Key Trends
- Shift towards Sustainable Packaging: The GCC region is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainable packaging solutions, driven by consumer awareness and government initiatives. PET packaging, with its recyclability and environmental advantages, aligns with this trend and is experiencing increased demand.
- Technological Advancements: Continuous advancements in PET packaging technology, including improved barrier properties, active packaging features, and intelligent packaging solutions, are key trends in the market. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to enhance functionality, aesthetics, and product differentiation.
- Customized Packaging Solutions: The demand for customized and personalized packaging solutions is on the rise. PET packaging manufacturers are offering a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs to cater to the unique branding and product differentiation requirements of companies.
- E-commerce Packaging: With the growth of the e-commerce sector in the GCC region, there is a rising demand for PET packaging solutions that cater to the specific needs of online retail. PET packaging provides durability, product protection, and efficient logistics, making it suitable for e-commerce packaging requirements.
- Focus on Convenience Features: Convenience features such as resealability, easy-open closures, and portability are gaining importance in PET packaging. Manufacturers are incorporating these features to enhance the user experience and meet consumer preferences for convenience and functionality.
- Aesthetic Appeal and Shelf Appeal: PET packaging offers excellent clarity and transparency, enabling the visibility of products and enhancing shelf appeal. Manufacturers are focusing on attractive designs, colors, and labeling to create visually appealing packaging solutions that stand out in the market.
- Smart Packaging Solutions: The integration of smart technologies into PET packaging, such as temperature indicators, freshness sensors, and RFID tags, is an emerging trend. These intelligent packaging solutions provide real-time information, enhance product safety, and improve supply chain efficiency.
The understanding of key market trends enables industry participants to stay ahead of the competition, innovate, and meet the evolving needs of consumers and industries in the GCC PET Packaging Market.
Covid-19 Impact
The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the GCC PET Packaging Market, with both positive and negative effects.
Positive Impact:
- Increased Demand for Essential Products: During the pandemic, there was a surge in demand for essential products, including packaged food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. This increased demand for PET packaging products as companies sought efficient and hygienic packaging solutions.
- Growth of E-commerce: With restrictions on physical retail, there was a rapid growth in e-commerce activities. PET packaging played a vital role in the safe and secure delivery of products to consumers, driving the demand for packaging solutions suitable for online sales.
- Focus on Product Safety: The pandemic highlighted the importance of product safety and hygiene. PET packaging offers a protective barrier, ensuring the integrity and safety of the packaged products. This led to an increased preference for PET packaging in the GCC region.
Negative Impact:
- Disruption in Supply Chain: The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, impacting the availability and pricing of raw materials for PET packaging. Manufacturers faced challenges in sourcing materials, causing delays in production and distribution.
- Reduced Disposable Income: The economic impact of the pandemic resulted in reduced disposable income for consumers. This affected purchasing power and consumer spending on non-essential products, including certain packaged goods that utilize PET packaging.
- Shift in Consumer Preferences: Consumer preferences and priorities changed during the pandemic, with a heightened focus on health and sustainability. This shift influenced the demand for packaging materials and formats, requiring PET packaging manufacturers to adapt to new consumer expectations.
While the pandemic presented challenges, the GCC PET Packaging Market also experienced opportunities arising from the increased demand for essential products and the growth of e-commerce. As the region recovers and adjusts to the post-pandemic landscape, the PET packaging market is expected to rebound and continue its growth trajectory.
Key Industry Developments
- Investment in Recycling Infrastructure: Several GCC countries have increased their investments in recycling infrastructure to address plastic waste management concerns. This includes the establishment of recycling plants, awareness campaigns, and regulations to promote PET packaging recycling and circular economy practices.
- Sustainable Packaging Initiatives: Companies in the GCC PET Packaging Market are adopting sustainable packaging initiatives to reduce environmental impact. This includes the use of bio-based materials, lightweighting, and designing packaging for recyclability.
- Collaborations and Partnerships: Market players are forming collaborations and partnerships to enhance their capabilities and expand their market reach. Collaborations between PET packaging manufacturers, recycling companies, and waste management organizations aim to create a closed-loop system for PET packaging.
- Technological Advancements: The industry is witnessing technological advancements in PET packaging, such as the development of barrier coatings, antimicrobial properties, and active packaging solutions. These advancements aim to improve product protection, extend shelf life, and enhance the functionality of PET packaging.
- Online Retail Packaging Solutions: With the growth of e-commerce, PET packaging manufacturers are developing packaging solutions specifically designed for online retail. These solutions focus on product protection, ease of handling, and efficient logistics for safe and secure delivery.
- Focus on Convenience and User Experience: Manufacturers are incorporating convenience features such as easy-open closures, resealability, and portion control in PET packaging. This focus on enhancing the user experience aims to meet consumer demands for convenience and functionality.
The key industry developments highlight the ongoing efforts in the GCC PET Packaging Market to address sustainability concerns, innovate packaging solutions, and adapt to changing consumer preferences and industry trends.
Analyst Suggestions
- Embrace Sustainability: Given the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental concerns, industry participants should prioritize sustainable practices in PET packaging manufacturing. This includes using recycled materials, adopting eco-friendly processes, and promoting recycling and circular economy practices.
- Invest in Research and Development: Companies should invest in research and development to drive technological advancements in PET packaging. This can involve improving barrier properties, developing intelligent packaging solutions, and exploring innovative designs and materials to meet evolving market needs.
- Collaborate with Recycling and Waste Management Companies: Collaborating with recycling and waste management companies can help establish a closed-loop system for PET packaging. This collaboration can enhance sustainability practices, promote recycling initiatives, and ensure proper disposal of PET packaging waste.
- Adapt to E-commerce Packaging Requirements: With the growth of e-commerce, companies should adapt their PET packaging solutions to meet the specific requirements of online retail. This includes focusing on product protection, efficient logistics, and convenient handling for safe and secure delivery.
- Cater to Changing Consumer Preferences: Consumer preferences are evolving, with a greater emphasis on health, convenience, and sustainability. Industry participants should align their PET packaging offerings with these preferences, focusing on functionality, ease of use, and eco-friendly features.
- Enhance Supply Chain Resilience: The pandemic highlighted the importance of a resilient supply chain. Companies should diversify their supply chain sources, develop contingency plans, and establish strong relationships with suppliers to mitigate potential disruptions.
Future Outlook
The future outlook for the GCC PET Packaging Market is positive, driven by several factors. The increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions, along with the growth of end-use industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care, will continue to drive the demand for PET packaging.
Technological advancements in PET packaging, such as improved barrier properties, active packaging features, and intelligent solutions, will further enhance the functionality and value proposition of PET packaging products. Additionally, collaborations between PET packaging manufacturers, recycling companies, and waste management organizations will contribute to the establishment of a more sustainable and circular PET packaging ecosystem.
The GCC region’s economic recovery post-pandemic, the growth of e-commerce, and the expanding hospitality and tourism sector will provide opportunities for PET packaging manufacturers to cater to the evolving needs of consumers and industries.
However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, environmental concerns, and competition from alternative packaging materials will need to be addressed. Companies that prioritize sustainability, invest in research and development, and adapt to changing market dynamics will be well-positioned for growth and success in the GCC PET Packaging Market.
Conclusion
The GCC PET Packaging Market is witnessing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for packaging solutions in the food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries. PET packaging, with its favorable properties such as lightweight, transparency, durability, and recyclability, is well-suited to meet the diverse needs of different sectors.
The market is characterized by growing awareness and emphasis on sustainability, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. Industry participants should focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability to stay competitive and capitalize on the opportunities in the market.