U.S. Packaging Machinery Exports Reflect Upward Momentum
ARLINGTON, Va.—From January to November of last year, United States exports of packaging machinery increased 7 percent compared to the same period of 2005 totaling $783 million. U.S. imports of packaging machinery increased 6 percent. The data, based on U.S. Census estimates and reported by the Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI), reflects the overall economic impact of the U.S. packaging industry.
Packaging is a critical component of all branding, merchandising, and promotional strategies. Brand owners rely on product packaging to gain a competitive advantage in the local, national and global marketplace. Packaging machinery manufacturers transform packaging concepts into tangible products. Machinery design and capabilities continue to advance helping speed a product’s time-to-market.
“The November numbers indicate a solid international demand for U.S. packaging machinery,” said Charles D. Yuska, president and CEO, PMMI. “PMMI member companies are aware of brand owners needs. In addition to introducing new and advanced machinery, they also provide solutions and services that help brand owners gain a competitive edge in the marketplace and boost overall operational efficiency.”
According to PMMI’s 12th Annual Shipments and Outlook Study, released in September 2006, growth in U.S. packaging machinery shipments can be attributed to end-users expanding production lines to accommodating new product introductions and package designs. In effect, end-users continued to replace older packaging machines with new models featuring state-of-the-art technology and promising rapid return on investment.
“PMMI is optimistic that the industry will continue to experience solid growth in 2007 based on the consistent rise of 2006 Census numbers and positive sales cycle projections,” noted Yuska. “In addition, we experienced record breaking attendance at PACK EXPO International in October 2006. The show continuously exemplifies its strong impact on the packaging industry, bringing together the international packaging community all under one roof.”
