Global use of aluminium based flexible packaging to grow to meet lightweighting and sustainability targets

The worldwide demand for flexible packaging is projected to touch $210 billion mark in 2015 and $248 billion by 2020, according to a recent market analysis.

The market report illustrates that increasing demand for smaller packs and convenient design is boosting the growth prospects of flexible packaging and the technological innovation behind it. According to the report, the market tonnage of the segment will grow on average by 3.8 per cent in 2015–2020, to reach 31.7 million tonnes. It notes a significant rise in demand for a wider range of SKU sizes, a broader colour palette and more closely tailored packaging solutions for different products.

Factors driving the flexible packaging market include the rising demands for convenient packaging and aesthetically appealing products, plus emerging technological innovations revolving around lightweighting. The prevailing sectoral trends include increasing consolidation in the form of mergers and acquisitions, and brand-owners’ shift towards high-barrier flexible materials.

The report observes a change in the consumer psyche towards packaging solutions that are light-weight and sustainable. This is where aluminium has gained a lot of leverage.

In today's scenario, aluminium is the material of choice among flexible packaging solution manufacturers. Coffee-machine refill pouches and pet-food sachets frequently contain aluminium; over 160,000t of flexible laminate aluminium-based packaging enters the UK marketplace every year, its desirability partly down to its lower price when made from recycled material. Unfortunately, design progress in this area may be hindered by the currently rising cost of aluminium, paper and other metal, brought about by unstable economic conditions and a growing gap in supply and demand.

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