Demand for converted flexible packaging in the US is forecast to see annual growth of 3.0%, reaching USD 18.8 bn in 2017, says US market researcher Freedonia (Cleveland, Ohio; www.freedonia.com) in its recent report, “Converted flexible packaging”. The study indicates that the market for converted flexible packaging will benefit from the convenience of lightweight bags and pouches and that further market penetration can be achieved through improving the consumer experience of using the packaging. Long-term prospects for converted flexible packaging are enhanced through advances to improve shelf life and protect the package from bacteria and other potential contaminants.

Pouches, primarily of a stand-up construction, offer significant growth opportunities, says Freedonia analyst Joe Pryweller, who forecasts demand “to increase 3.6% per year through 2017 to USD 8.2 bn, with even faster growth through 2022.” He added that recent product launches contribute to further growth, while lighter weight packages can reduce both production and transport costs. For the US stand-up pouches market, see also Plasteurope.com of 12.11.2013.

The use of bags in converted flexible packaging also will increase, the report says, although at a slower rate than in previous years, with projected growth of 2.6% annually to USD 9.2 bn in 2017. The bag market is especially strong for non-food items such as pharmaceuticals and medical products, where advancements in sealing and protection and strong handling capabilities are resulting in gains. The continuing conversion to plastic bags in the pet food market and the popularity of ready-to-eat and case-ready meats will trigger added growth for both bags and pouches, Freedonia said.

Converted flexible packaging provides strong competition to rigid packaging in food applications, where there are opportunities for further market penetration. Growth is led by product introductions in packaged meat and poultry, snack foods, ready-to-eat produce, pet food and speciality beverages. Added features, such as easy opening and resealing, also boost conversion from rigid containers to converted flexible packaging.

In non-food applications, the health care market is more important due to the growth of the aging US population and a focus on product protection and cleanroom environments. The growing popularity of pouches for single-use laundry and dishwasher detergent and the conversion to reclosable, large-format plastic bags for lawn and garden and other household items highlight the potential for pouch and bag formats, the study concludes.