Flexible packaging now has consumer conveniences, sustainability, reduced costs

By Tom Polischuk

This is reflected in observations presented in The Freedonia Group’s study, “Paper versus Plastic in Packaging to 2014” released in November 2010. “Plastic’s share will expand more slowly than in the 2004-2009 period due to the maturity of a number of applications in terms of the share controlled by plastic. Nonetheless, material enhancements providing extended shelf life and increased durability, along with reduced material requirements and the addition of convenience features such as resealability and microwaveability, will fuel continued opportunities for plastic packaging.” The report goes on to project demand for the use of plastics in packaging markets to increase 2.3 percent annually through 2014.