Opportunity Knocks

On the downside, some of the traditionally strong (and large) label markets are mature and are experiencing stiff competition from alternative printing methods. The Freedonia Group's "Labels" study issued in July 2004 identifies glue-applied, heat-seal, and gummed labels as established labeling methods whose growth prospects are relatively poor. Some of the low growth expectations in these sectors stem from broader packaging trends such as the move away from canned products to newer packaging methods including stand-up pouches.