General / January 23, 2020
The explosion of growth in the flexible packaging industry isn’t slowing in the foreseeable future due to convenience and sustainability. In fact, it’s increasing year over year as it’s adopted both by new markets, industries, and brands (large and small), and by established brands to replace their conventional packaging. According to the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, two major industry factors are driving popularity for the flexible packaging format: consumer demand for the most convenient packaging and a global call for sustainable packaging ready for the marketplace.
Conventional package can sometimes seem like an opponent that consumers must psych themselves up to face. Some packages are so difficult to open, and no one wants to cut themselves with scissors or knives trying to open a container. Even worse are the clear plastic clamshells that are a weapon in and of themselves.
These struggles with packaging have contributed to change in the industry, with stand-up pouches now making up 28% of the packaging market—globally! Among the industries on track to grow in adoption over the next couple years are food and beverage, dairy products, cosmetics, and healthcare.
Flexible packaging offers excellent benefits and cost-saving advantages for manufacturers, but consumers particularly appreciate the conveniences. They’re easy to open (often incorporating tear notches) and can be customized with many user-friendly features like resealable “zip” closures, pouring spouts, advanced film materials, and child safety features. Flexible packaging also ships well and can be a competitive edge as online retail giants and local stores alike increasingly favor the format.
Eco-conscious packaging is no longer just an interesting idea or something different to try. The devastating impacts of global waste on our environment are being recognized—and addressed—internationally. Consumers demand responsibility and sustainability from the companies they work with and buy from so it’s no surprise that this shift in both consumer and corporate focus is contributing to the growth of the flexible packaging industry.
Using flexible packaging can offer the advantages of reduced carbon footprint in manufacturing and shipping/transportation, plus reduced (or nearly eliminated) waste with a number of material options, from conventional plastics to recyclable and/or biodegradable films. The demand—and the technology—are only going to continue to improve.
Explore your flexible packaging with us today! Give us a call or contact us for more information.