Market Trends of United States Rigid Plastic Packaging Industry
Food And Beverage Sector Drives Demand For Rigid Plastic Packaging Products
- In the United States, where plant-based options are gaining traction and coffee consumption is a daily ritual for many, the American diet is witnessing a convergence of trends. While the appeal of sugary drinks and caffeine remains potent, an increasing number of individuals are gravitating towards plant-based and organic alternatives. As Americans traverse grocery store aisles and coffee shops, their choices transcend mere sustenance, reflecting deeper values and identities.
- According to a report by Monster Beverage Corp., US energy drink sales reached approximately 1.6 billion units for the 13 weeks ending December 30, 2023. This surge spurred a heightened demand for smaller-sized PET bottles, catering to the needs of on-the-go consumers prioritizing convenience and portability.
- The American Frozen Food Institute noted that, despite unit declines in 2022 and 2023, frozen food sales consistently outpaced pre-pandemic volume levels. In the first half of 2024, buoyed by strengthening consumer demand and a significant moderation in inflation, frozen food unit sales rebounded. Rigid plastic trays have seen widespread adoption in the frozen food sector, primarily for their role in protecting perishables and extending shelf life. These trays, often made from recyclable materials, not only provide durability and protection but also align with the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
- Many new packaging materials are now recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable, enhancing their sustainability. Their lighter weight contributes to reduced shipping costs and fuel consumption. Additionally, packaging techniques like vacuum sealing and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) are gaining traction, allowing for the production of compact items with extended shelf lives.
- Rigid plastic packaging products have become essential in the food and beverage sector due to their versatility and durability. These products, including bottles, trays, and containers, offer excellent protection against contamination and physical damage, ensuring the integrity and safety of food and beverages. They are lightweight, which reduces transportation costs and carbon footprint, and many are designed to be recyclable, supporting sustainability initiatives. The ability to mold rigid plastic into various shapes and sizes also allows for innovative packaging designs that enhance product appeal and functionality, meeting the diverse needs of consumers and manufacturers alike.
Well-Established Pharmaceutical Sector Accounts For Significant Share
- The United States is one of the world's largest and most advanced pharmaceutical industries, playing a pivotal role in healthcare by developing, producing, and distributing medications. According to IQVIA, the United States represents an average of 45% of the global pharmaceutical market. This dominance is crucial for driving medical advancements, as companies consistently innovate new drugs and therapies to tackle various health challenges.
- There is a significant demand for packaging solutions that adhere to the sector's stringent requirements. Rigid plastic packaging is especially crucial due to its durability, lightweight nature, and protective qualities against contamination and damage. Materials like polypropylene and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are favored in the pharmaceutical sector for their durability, chemical resistance, and ability to uphold product integrity. These materials are typically crafted into bottles, vials, containers, and blister packs, safeguarding medications from contamination, moisture, and physical harm. Furthermore, these packaging solutions incorporate tamper-evident and child-resistant features, ensuring safety and adherence to regulatory standards.
- Companies in the United States pharmaceutical packaging industry are experiencing organic growth through continuous innovations and developments. In January 2024, Savillex, a prominent United States based provider of high-performance container and containment solutions, unveiled its new PETG Square Media Bottle product line under the Purillex brand. Manufactured in Savillex's U.S.-based ISO Class 7 facility, these PETG bottles are ready for both domestic and international shipment. Tailored for critical life sciences applications, Purillex's PETG Square Media Bottles come in both sterile and non-sterile variants, with sizes ranging from 125 mL to 1000 mL. Produced through a blend of injection and stretch blow molding, these bottles are designed to seamlessly replace competing PETG media bottles.
- In February 2023, Berry Global Healthcare launched a comprehensive solution to address the rising demand for child-resistant (CRC) and tamper-evident (TE) packaging in the pharmaceutical and herbal markets, particularly for syrup and liquid medicines. Leveraging its extensive design and technical expertise in the healthcare sector, Berry Global is offering a diverse range of bottle and closure solutions tailored to the market's varied needs.