A Frost & Sullivan study published in July says the aseptic packaging market is in a growth phase. While the paperboard or drink box segment of the market is said to be in a low growth phase, both the flexible film and rigid plastic sectors are seen as high-growth areas.
Shown in the study are the total unit shipment and the revenue forecasts for the total U.S. aseptic packaging market over the period 2001-2011. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for revenue is forecast to be 3.4% over the period from 2004 to 2011.
A look at CAGR by market segment shows growth in the aseptic paperboard carton market to be practically flat compared to flexible and rigid plastics. The aseptic paperboard carton market is expected to generate $276.6 million in 2011 at a
revenue CAGR of 0.8% for the period 2004 to 2011. Flexibles and rigid plastic containers are another story. The aseptic flexible packages market is expected to generate $198 million in 2011 at a revenue CAGR of 7.0% for the period 2004 to 2011. The aseptic plastic container market is expected to generate $62.4 million in 2011 at a revenue CAGR of 6.7% for the period 2004 to 2011.
The study identifies key market drivers and restraints. The authors also suggest that if aseptic packaging is to remain a growth area, participants must overcome the high capital costs involved in purchasing and installing aseptic equipment. These costs—combined with low efficiency of equipment and the requirement for highly skilled technicians—are keeping the price tag on an aseptic installation too high, say the authors of the study. The study is available by phoning 210/247-3870.
Also recently published is a study from Packaging Strategies called “Aseptic packaging in the United States: Systems, installations and trends for food and beverage markets.” Key findings include these:
• There are currently 558 aseptic fillers in operation in the U.S.
• 28 of the 33 manufacturers of aseptic filling equipment have installations in the U.S.
• The estimated annual retail value of aseptic packaging in the U.S. is nearly $12 billion.
• The aseptic market is experiencing a shift in emphasis from high- to low-acid food products.
The study is available by phoning 610/436-4220, ext. 11.
See the story that goes with this sidebar: Aseptic and ESL packaging keeps evolving
