Flexible packaging, like its name would suggest, is used in a variety of industries and comes in a number of forms. From storing products in the food and beverage markets to wrapping pallets in industrial operations, these materials and strategies have been able to carve out a large role in many businesses.
Regardless of the industry, the need to get products where they need to be safely and cost-effectively is high, which has been one of the major drivers of innovation within the sector. On top of this, a growing number of customers are looking to use more recyclable materials as well to limit their environmental impact and boost their reputations as sustainable companies.
A new report indicates that the flexible packaging market is expected to grow at a moderate pace over the next few years as developments within the industry and economic activity picks up.
Plastics driving growth
According to a new report by Markets and Markets, the global flexible packaging market is predicted to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 5.1 percent between 2013 and 2018. Polyethylene (PE) is expected to be the biggest contributor to these increases, making up about 32 percent of the total share and growing at the same CAGR as the broader sector.
Polypropylene (PP), the second largest sector, is expected to grow at a rate of 4.9 percent during the period. Other areas that will see consistent expansion are paper at 5.5 percent and aluminum at 5.4 percent.
Cellulosic is expected to see the fastest potential growth at a CAGR of 8.2 percent.
Improving economies and sustainability
There are a couple of contributing factors that will likely play large roles in this increasing market. According to the report, emerging economies such as China and India are making up large shares of flexible packaging consumption, especially as preferences for convenience foods continue to grow.
Flexible packaging market to see growth in coming yearsOn top of this, Brazil is slated to increase its use of these packaging strategies, especially as the 2016 Olympic Games approach, which will increase tourism and, in turn, the consumption of these kinds of goods.
Consumer demands for sustainability
On top of this economic factor, consumer sentiments are changing. Not only do they want a package that will deliver their product intact, they are looking for containers that can do so with a low environmental impact.
According to Food Production Daily, one company has been able to do so through the use of a 100 percent recyclable PE pouch. Not only is this a more sustainable package, but it can also be incorporated into existing recycling streams.
It is also an aesthetically pleasing pouch, allowing its users to stand out from the competition.
Making the right choice
Because there are so many competing factors that go into choosing the right material for the proper packaging solution, it is important to take the proper considerations when looking at these products.
Two of the biggest plastics in the flexible packaging sector are PE and PP. PE's advantages come in its durability. It is a flexible, translucent material that is tear-resistant, making it an ideal choice for bagging heavy objects. PE also attracts less dirt than many other resins, thereby keeping its products safe.
PP is often found in electronics and food storage because of its ability to keep vapor and moisture out. It is a popular choice for any product that needs to be kept sanitary. It can meet FDA and USDA standards and is also quite clear, making it a strong choice for products that could use a strong presentation.
