The worldwide market for hotrunner systems grew strongly in 2010 following a significant downturn in 2009, according to a recently published market study by Interconnection Consulting (Vienna / Austria; www.interconnectionconsulting.com). The global market reached EUR 1.8 bn, thanks to growth of 27.1% in the year 2010, boosted by a near doubling of demand in the household items segment which showed an annual growth of almost 94%.

Geographically, the South American market grew by over 74% in 2010, reaching EUR 24.4m. Growth in the market for hotrunner controllers followed a similar pattern with significant growth in Latin America and increased investment by Chinese manufacturers.

Interconnection is forecasting strong growth rates for the international hotrunner systems market over the next four years, with all regions expected to grow considerably and high growth in China and India. The Chinese market is expected to more than double and reach a market volume of EUR 491m in 2014, rising from EUR 232m in 2010.

Average annual growth rates in the US and Canada region are expected to be over 10% up to 2014, with the North American automobile industry driving change. While US demand and production are expected to decline, manufacturers are investing in more sustainable products. This leads to investments into new infrastructure for production and a consequent increase in demand for hotrunner products, the consultant said.