Lower costs and better barrier performance will help boost the use of flexible packaging over that of rigid formats, according to a report by Freedonia.

The report provides an outline of the US' changing food packaging market, which is shifting to newer formats in response to demanding customers.

The demand for flexible packaging from the food sector is forecast to increase 4.3 per cent per year through 2009, Freedonia stated.

The gains will slightly outpace the overall market as a result of increased demand for convenience-oriented or other processed food items. The market analyst expects the fastest growth to occur in the produce, meat and related products, and beverage segments.

Overall US demand for converted flexible packaging is projected to increase by about four per cent per year to $14.4 billion in 2009, Freedonia says in its latest market report.

"Growth will be attributable to cost, performance and source reduction advantages over most rigid packaging formats," the analyst stated. "Heightened barrier requirements in many markets will drive increased demand for value-added materials to enhance shelf life or product protection."

Technological advances such as breathable films and resealable stand-up pouches, as well as manufacturers' requirements for higher performance packaging with enhanced graphics capabilities, will contribute to growth.

The demand for pouches will be one of the big growth areas. Demand for the packaging format is forecast to rise 6.6 per cent per yearto $5.8 billion in 2009, Freedonia stated.

"Advances will be propelled by rapid expansion for stand-up pouches, often at the expense of rigid containers, based on advantages of excellent visual appeal, product differentiation, convenience, portability and reclosability," the analyst stated.

The demand for flat pouches will increase as a result of improved barrier structures and the addition of convenient features such as resealable zippers.

Bags and other types of converted flexible packaging will post more moderate growth. Above-average demand will occur in the produce, beverages, meat and related products markets.

Source