US demand for plastic packaging will continue to outpace paper in markets where they compete, albeit more slowly as applications mature. The fastest market share increases for plastic will occur in pet food and soy beverage packaging, followed by protective packaging, foodservice and dairy products, among others.
This study analyzes selected competitive markets in the US for paper and plastic packaging. It presents historical demand data (1997, 2002, 2007) and forecasts for 2012 and 2017 by type (e.g., rigid containers, flexible packaging), material, competitive product (e.g., meat, milk, fruit beverages, detergents, baked goods, egg cartons, candy) and competitive shipping and retail product (e.g., retail bags and sacks, drums, protective packaging).
The study also considers market environment factors, details industry structure, discusses market leaders, and profiles 41 industry players including Alcan Packaging, Bemis and Exopack.