Australia Knife Market Size, Share Analysis and Forecast Report 2024-2032

Australia Knife Market Trends

The Australia knife market thrives due to a strong demand for high-quality, durable knives for both domestic and professional use. It serves a variety of segments, including kitchens, hunting, sports, and survival knives. Outdoor activities and the expanding culinary culture further fuel the demand for specialised, innovative knife designs tailored to local tastes.

Growth in the Australia knife market is also driven by increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly, sustainable knives made from ethically sourced materials. The presence of local manufacturers supports the economy, while Australia's reputation for craftsmanship creates export opportunities.

Australia Knife Market Growth

The demand of the Australia knife market is driven by growing interest in premium, handmade knives, particularly limited-edition pieces made from high-quality materials. The expansion of e-commerce has made knives more accessible, boosting sales. Knife collecting, supported by government regulations and a focus on safety features, ensures a stable market with reliable, secure designs. The Australian government has implemented strict regulations and policies to manage the manufacture, sale, and possession of knives, aiming to reduce crime related to knife violence.

The Australia knife market revenue is further strengthened by well-established Australian brands that foster consumer loyalty, while celebrity chefs and affluent consumers increase demand for high-end products. Trends in customisation and personalisation cater to those seeking unique knives, and the cultural significance of knives in Australian outdoor and indigenous traditions enhances the market's resilience and appeal.

Australia Knife Market Insights

• In 2023, the Australian food service industry, valued at AUD 59 billion, played a key role in supporting local economies by generating employment and driving tourism. Its growth has encouraged innovation in food offerings, enhancing customer experiences and meeting the diverse dietary needs across the country.
• According to the ABS, a 0.3% increase in cafes, restaurants, and takeaway services in October 2024, seasonally adjusted, contributes to the expansion of the Australian knife market, boosting demand for high-quality kitchen knives. As these businesses expand, the need for durable and efficient knives for food preparation increases, driving sales and spurring innovation in knife designs.
• Industry reports reveal that the fast food and takeaway services sector generated over 23 billion Australian dollars in revenue in 2023, marking a USD 2.4 billion increase from the previous year. This growth has intensified the demand for high-quality, durable kitchen knives, prompting manufacturers to develop specialized products for the food service industry.

Industry News

September 2024

Furi introduced a new collection of Japanese steel knives designed specifically for Australian chefs. These knives prioritise precision and sharpness, targeting culinary enthusiasts who seek high-performance kitchen tools. Incorporating advanced steel technology, they offer excellent edge retention and maintain their sharpness even with frequent use.

July 2022

La Marzocco Australia partnered with Cut Throat to create a limited-edition chef’s knife, handcrafted by bladesmith Aidan Mackinnon, owner of Cut Throat. The 8” European-style blade is forged from a single piece of 52100 High Carbon Steel with a recurved heel. As part of this coffee-themed collaboration, the blade’s patina is created by soaking it in coffee before an acid stone wash, giving it a rich, dark brown hue.

Australia Knife Market Drivers

Growing Demand for High-Performance Knives

The Australia knife market is experiencing upward demand for high-performance knives, driven by both professional chefs and culinary enthusiasts. Consumers are in search of knives that offer exceptional sharpness, durability, and precision. Japanese steel knives, well-known for their sharpness and longevity, are particularly gaining popularity. This trend is further fuelled by the rise in home cooking, food preparation shows, and the growing appreciation for premium kitchen tools. Brands offering customised, ergonomic designs and advanced materials like Damascus steel are seeing increased demand as consumers look for tools that improve their cooking experience and kitchen performance. According to McDonald's Australia’s latest filings with ASIC, the company saw a 7% increase in sales for 2023, reaching USD 2.144 billion from its company-owned restaurants and rental income.

Rise in Customised and Premium Knife Offerings

Customised and premium knives are significantly boosting the trends in the Australia knife market, as consumers increasingly desire bespoke kitchen tools. High-end brands are offering knives that can be personalised in terms of design, size, and material to meet individual preferences. This shift is driven by a growing interest in cooking as a hobby, where enthusiasts are willing to invest in high-quality, personalised knives for superior performance and aesthetic appeal. The demand for premium knives is also linked to a shift towards artisanal craftsmanship, with consumers seeking unique, high-quality products that reflect their style. Dmitriy Popov, an Australian bladesmith based in Sydney, is known for his high-performance, beautifully designed chef knives. His attention to detail has earned him multiple awards, and his work is highly regarded in the industry.

Opportunities in the Australian Knife Market

The Australia knife market is benefiting from a significant shift towards online retail, as more consumers are purchasing knives through e-commerce platforms. The convenience of online shopping, along with a broader product selection and competitive pricing, has led to a rise in digital sales. Shoppers are increasingly relying on detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and professional recommendations before making a purchase. E-commerce has also provided consumers with access to international brands and niche products that were previously unavailable in local stores. Consequently, online platforms have become a major sales channel, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the Australian knife market. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the e-commerce retail sector contributed 41.5% to the growth in the value added by digital activities in Australia during the 2020-21 period.

Market Restraints

The Australia knife market encounters a range of challenges that hinder growth. Strict regulations governing the sale and carrying of knives limit the types that can be sold, while high import tariffs and taxes raise costs, making products less affordable. Competition from inexpensive imported knives, particularly from China, puts pressure on local manufacturers. Safety concerns, market saturation, and shifting consumer preferences towards sustainable products add complication.

The market is affected by economic downturns, as reduced discretionary spending impacts knife sales. Supply chain disruptions and import issues may lead to product shortages. Additionally, new brands find it difficult to compete against recognised names, while environmental concerns related to production processes drive up manufacturing costs, limiting the market's potential.

Australia Knife Industry Segmentation

“Australia Knife Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Material

• Steel
• Titanium
• Ceramic

Market Breakup by Type

• Folding Blade
• Fixed Blade
• Side Slide

Market Breakup by Application

• Kitchen
• Survival
• Weapon
• Sports
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Queensland
• Australian Capital Territory
• Western Australia
• Others

Australia Knife Market Share

Market Analysis by Material

According to the Australia knife market analysis, steel is preferred for its durability, sharpness, and low maintenance. High-carbon stainless steel is particularly valued for its excellent edge retention and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for a range of uses, from culinary to outdoor knives. In October 2024, Victorinox launched a new series of high-carbon stainless steel knives aimed at professional chefs, focusing on durability and precision to meet the increasing demand for high-quality kitchen tools in Australia.

Opportunities in the Australia knife market are further enhanced by titanium knives, which are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly durable, making them perfect for outdoor and tactical uses. Their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio appeals to consumers seeking versatile and long-lasting cutting tools. In October 2024, Gerber introduced a new titanium folding knife designed for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a lightweight structure and superior corrosion resistance to meet the growing demand for durable outdoor gear in Australia.

Market Analysis by Type

Folding blades are highly popular in the Australia knife market due to their portability and safety features. They are perfect for everyday carry, outdoor activities, and tactical uses, offering convenience without sacrificing functionality or performance. In October 2024, Cold Steel launched a new range of folding knives with advanced locking mechanisms and ergonomic designs, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and professionals in search of reliable and versatile cutting tools.

Fixed blades are recognised for their strength and dependability in heavy-duty tasks, influencing the Australia knife market dynamics and trends. These knives are particularly favoured for hunting, survival, and bushcraft applications, as they provide superior durability and performance compared to folding knives. In November 2024, Benchmade introduced an expanded collection of tactical fixed-blade knives, designed specifically for law enforcement and military use. The new models feature high-quality materials and ergonomic designs to enhance performance.

Market Analysis by Application

According to the Australia knife market report, the kitchen knife segment is flourishing due to the growing interest in culinary arts and home cooking trends. High-quality kitchen knives improve food preparation efficiency, enabling both chefs and home cooks to achieve greater precision and control, thus enhancing the overall cooking experience. In October 2024, Wüsthof launched a new range of professional kitchen knives designed for both home cooks and chefs. These knives feature ergonomic designs and high-carbon stainless steel blades, meeting the increasing demand for premium culinary tools in Australia.

The sports knife segment in the Australia knife market is thriving, driven by the country’s outdoor lifestyle, with increasing participation in activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. Knives tailored for these activities provide users with enhanced durability and functionality, improving both safety and efficiency during outdoor pursuits. In September 2024, Buck Knives launched a new collection of fishing knives designed specifically for anglers. These knives are crafted for precise filleting and feature corrosion-resistant blades, addressing the needs of fishing enthusiasts across Australia.

Australia Knife Market Regional Insights

New South Wales Knife Market Overview

According to the Australia knife industry analysis, New South Wales benefits from a vibrant knife market, driven by the expanding food service industry. The growing interest in culinary arts and the rise in restaurants fuel the demand for premium kitchen knives, which supports local manufacturers and fosters innovation in design. In 2023, New South Wales was home to around 18,000 restaurants, playing a crucial role in the region’s culinary scene, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Queensland Knife Market Trends

Queensland's knife market is propelled by outdoor recreational activities and a robust hospitality industry. The demand for high-quality knives, suitable for both culinary and outdoor uses, supports local businesses and drives innovation in products that meet consumer needs. In 2023, Queensland had approximately 12,000 registered food businesses, including cafes and restaurants, which contributed to the demand for superior kitchen knives, as reported by the Queensland Government.

Western Australia Knife Market Dynamics

The knife market in Western Australia thrives, bolstered by its strong mining and outdoor sectors. The demand for durable knives, needed for industrial and recreational purposes, drives local manufacturing, and broadens the availability of specialised cutting tools. In 2023, Western Australia had more than 8,000 restaurants, contributing to the rising need for high-quality kitchen knives in the food service industry, according to Tourism WA.

Competitive Landscape

The Australia knife market key players specialise in producing high-quality, precision-engineered knives for various industries, including food processing, recycling, and packaging. They are renowned for their expertise in custom knife design, offering tailored solutions to meet clients' specific needs. Their product range includes knives for cutting, slitting, shearing, and grinding, all made from durable materials for long-lasting performance. Commended to excellence, these companies use advanced manufacturing techniques and place a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction.

Key Industry Players

13 Knives: It is an Australian knife-making company specialising in custom, handcrafted knives. Established in 2015 and based in Queensland, the company prides itself on creating high-quality, durable knives for collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals. They focus on precision craftsmanship and unique designs tailored to individual preferences.

Gidgee Knives: Founded in 2010, it is an Australian company based in Western Australia. Known for producing premium custom knives, Gidgee Knifes focuses on quality craftsmanship and using locally sourced materials. They offer a range of bespoke knives, including hunting, utility, and collectable pieces, all handmade to the highest standards.

Sacred Blades: Established in 2014 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Sacred Blades is a bespoke knife-making company. Specialising in hand-forged knives, the company focuses on combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Their products range from tactical and kitchen knives to unique, one-of-a-kind creations, all designed for optimal performance.

Cut Throat Knives: Founded in 2012 and based in Brisbane, Australia, specialises in crafting high-performance knives. The company is known for its precision, creating a wide array of bespoke knives, including custom fixed blades and folding knives. They focus on quality materials, craftsmanship, and innovative designs tailored to their clients' needs.

Other key players in the Australia knife market report are Thryv, Halfbreed Blades Australia Pty Ltd., GREGORY ALLOYS PTY LTD., Zu Bladeworx Australia Pty Ltd. and Machine Knives Aust Pty Ltd, among others.

Recent Developments

September 2024

Australia's first Samoan fire knife competition, the Toa Ole Afi - Pati Levasa Fire Knife Competition, was launched. This event celebrates the warrior spirit of Samoan culture through fire knife dancing, a practice that honours the strength and bravery of Samoan ancestors. The two-day competition in Brisbane features multicultural performances, heats, finals, and awards.

June 2023

Messermeister, a renowned manufacturer of premium handcrafted chef’s knives, kitchen cutlery, and cooking tools, is a favourite among professional chefs and home cooks alike. The brand is famous for its signature knife collections, including the newly introduced Adventure Chef collection of portable folding knives for outdoor cooking and the popular Oliva Elite collection, which boasts heirloom-quality knives with Mediterranean olive wood handles.