Abstract
US film demand to reach 17 billion pounds in 2012
Demand for plastic film in the US is projected to grow 2.8 percent annually to
17 billion pounds in 2012, valued at $14 billion (resin cost only). Total
plastic film demand (including resins, additives, and processing and other
costs) will expand 4.7 percent per annum to $33.4 billion. Advances will
reflect cost, performance and source reduction advantages over rigid packaging
and other materials. Low density polyethylene will remain the leading film,
accounting for two-thirds of the total in 2012, with the best growth expected
for degradable plastic film and ethylene vinyl alcohol. Prices for film on
average will moderate following the steep price increases between 2004 and
2007, which were precipitated by escalating raw material and energy costs.
LDPE, HDPE, polypropylene to exhibit strong growth
Demand for low density polyethylene film will rise nearly three percent per
year to 11.3 billion pounds in 2011 based on a competitive cost structure,
versatility and opportunities in areas such as produce and snack packaging,
stretch and shrink wrap, and trash bags. High density polyethylene will
exhibit slightly slower advances with good growth anticipated in areas such as
baked goods packaging and retail bags. Polypropylene film demand is expected
to increase 3.4 percent annually to 1.5 billion pounds in 2012, driven by
produce, grain mill, dairy product and other food packaging applications.
Polyester film demand will continue to decline as a result of diminished use
in photographic film and magnetic tape brought about by the continued inroads
made by digital cameras, CDs and DVDs. Nonetheless, good opportunities are
anticipated for polyester film in food packaging applications such as snack
foods, confections and frozen food, due to needs for higher barrier
properties. Polyvinyl chloride film demand is expected to grow at a subdued
pace due to slow red meat consumption and competition from polyolefin films.
Study coverage
It presents historical demand data plus forecasts for 2012 and 2017 by type
and market for various packaging applications (food, nonfood, secondary,
nonpackaging). This study also presents an overview of the US market,
considers market environment factors, assesses company market shares and
profiles 46 US industry competitors.
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