Protective packaging to become $5 billion industry in US by 2012: study

Protective packaging demand in the United States is projected to expand 4.6 per cent per year to US$5.2 billion in 2012, driven by manufacturing growth and the proliferation of Internet commerce, according to a new study released by market research firm The Freedonia Group.

The 241-page “Protective Packaging” study presents an overview for protective packaging by material (paper, paperboard, foamed plastics, plastic films, other plastics) and function (cushioning, blocking and bracing, void-fill, wrapping and insulating). Historical and forecast sales are provided in current dollars and pounds. In addition, the key strategic and competitive variables affecting the US protective packaging industry are discussed, the industry’s key players are identified and profiled, and US market share is presented.

According to the study, fastest advances are anticipated for air pillows and insulated shipping containers, with protective mailers and bubble packaging also logging above-average growth; and for foamed-in-place polyurethane, which provides cushioning properties conforming to items of virtually any shape.

More information about the study can be found at http://www.freedoniagroup.com/DocumentDetails.aspx?ReferrerId=FE-WEBAN&studyid=2316

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