Packaging: A Change Continuum

Sleeve labels—particularly shrink sleeves—have been a real phenomenon in the packaging market, but we see growth leveling off today as the market becomes saturated and the novelty value declines. Together, the sleeve technologies now command more than 7 percent of the world label market, with the biggest market share in Japan, and North America and Europe sharing second place. In-mold labels are now contributing significantly, particularly in high-volume, fast-moving consumer goods applications like margarine and ice cream tubs.