Gains in global manufacturing output, increased consumer spending on packaged goods worldwide, and demographic trends such as increasing urban populations, are seen as key factors in the freedonia group prediction for an increase in rigid packaging demand. Freedonia&rsquos &ldquoworld rigid packaging,&rdquo the report notes, &ldquothe most rapid increases in demand for rigid packaging will be seen in the world&rsquos developing regions, and in particular, the asiapacific region due to its large food and beverage industries.
Overall, some of the highest growth rates are expected in india, china, and indonesia, with brazil, turkey, russia, and mexico also expected to see healthy gains. China alone will account for 46 of global value gains in rigid packaging demand between 2011 and 2016.&rdquo other takeaways from the report include the following &bull food and beverage represent the largest markets for rigid packaging, accounting for 64 of total rigid packaging demand in 2011. &bull gains are expected for plastic bottles and containers as a result of cost and performance advantages, as well as further development of foodgrade materials. &bull rigid packaging demand in pharmaceutical applications is forecast to see aboveaverage growth, boosted by rapidly expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities, especially in asia. &bull among materials, plastic will continue to account for the largest share of demand and will also see the fastest increases.
That said, metal cans will remain an important segment of the rigid packaging mix due to their durability, long shelf life, tamper resistance, ease of storage, recyclability, and the economic advantages of canned items in controlling food expenditures. Opportunities for paperboard rigid packaging will reflect a competitive price structure, suitability for high quality graphics, and a favorable environmental profile.
