Global demand for packaging machinery is forecast to rise 4.7% annually through 2014 to $35.9 billion, an improvement over the recession-burdened 2004 to 2009 period. Sales growth will be driven by acceleration in manufacturing output as well as a favorable fixed investment environment worldwide, according to World Packaging Machinery, a new study from The Freedonia Group Inc. of Cleveland.
Gains in developing nations will be the driving force behind advances in the global market for packaging equipment, say analysts. For example, China will account for 41% of all additional demand through 2014, with growth stimulated by increases in manufacturing production and the use of packaging as industrialization efforts continue and income levels rise. Other Asian nations with smaller and less-developed economies — such as India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand — will also post healthy market gains. In developed areas of the world, most notably the U.S., Western Europe, and Japan, demand is expected to rebound after a period of decline, although sales advances will not be as strong as those in developing nations.
Demand for packaging machinery is led by the food market, which will account for 43% of all sales worldwide in 2014, according to the new report. However, the beverage market will post the fastest gains, averaging 5.2% annually through 2014. Growth in global food and beverage markets for packaging machinery will largely be due to gains in the Asia/Pacific region, most notably China.
Growth in sales of labeling and coding machines, as well as filling and form-fill-seal machines, will be the fastest of any major product category through 2014. Demand for labeling and coding equipment will be driven by an increased need for shippers to accurately track items for safety and security reasons, particularly in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as to help combat counterfeiting. Technological advances aimed at improving efficiency and flexibility will spur sales of filling and form-fill-seal machinery. As a result, this type of equipment will hold its position as the largest product segment, accounting for approximately 25% of all packaging equipment demand in 2014.
For more information on World Packaging Machinery (published February 2011, 417 pages), visit freedoniagroup.com or call (440) 684-9600.