Targeting Success

The coming year should see a continuing consolidation in the industry. Last year, Markens said the feeling was that "somebody has to go broke." But it hasn't happened yet. Although the majors appear to be doing all right, he wouldn't be surprised to see some consolidation at that level.

The year ahead will also be characterized by a further emphasis on speed-to-market, lean manufacturing, and produce-to-demand, says Ratkus. The resultant need for shorter runs and quicker turns will put ongoing pressure on converters to invest in new equipment in order to meet customer demands.