PFFC - May 2008 - (Page 42)

EURO CONVERTING European Flex-Pack Converting Factors u Aging population with oversupply; u Drift toward Eastern/Central Europe production, away from Western Europe; u Use of less complex laminates toward more simple structures; u Sustainability a strong factor in company development; u Accelerated plant closures by big converters in Western Europe; u Trend toward healthy foods with short shelf life and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP); u Changing lifestyles in less-developed nations causing an increased use of converted materials. With its relatively small flex-pack industry, Greece is expected to show increased growth in the next few years. There are an estimated six flex-pack converters in Greece, with several more in the works. Technical/Marketing Trends The many nations now in the EU have given rise to various trends reflecting the differences in national characteristics. Here is a summary gleaned from both personal observations and informed interviews: u Bioplastics in Short Supply—Although the European Bioplastics Conference is fully attended, there is a definitive shortage of bio-based polymers. Germany and Italy are leaders in utilizing these materials for both food/pharma packages. Reported situations of nonTurkey: A Special Country availability of polylactic acid (PLA) and other resins have Turkey is the only nation in its geographical area where flexible hampered developmental activity seriously. It should packaging has grown into a serious industry with a strong be noted there have been announcements that many infrastructure of technology, manufacturing, and manpower. producers will increase production significantly in the next Although the average Turkish citizen utilizes only 5 kg of flexfew years. An ever-increasing number of firms also are pack annually (lower than other countries), the nation is a investing in product and technical development. In Hall growing supplier to European end-users. 7A at Interpack 2008, there was an exhibit of bio-based There are an estimated 15 flex-pack producers in Turkey— packaging under the title, “Packaging Goes Bio.” Many up from 13 in 2006 with a 5% annual growth. Both Turkey new concepts were exhibited. and Eastern/Central Europe with its 6% annual growth are u PET Recycling Booming in Europe—There is a definite the two main growth areas in the European flex-pack industry. trend in Europe toward “super-transparent” packages, PFFC-ASAP 132 42 | MAY 2008 WWW.PFFC-ONLINE.COM http://www.protect-all.com http://WWW.PFFC-ONLINE.COM

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of PFFC - May 2008

PFFC - May 2008 Contents First Glance Calendar of Events From the Editor Web Lines Process Management News Clips Narrow Web & Label Reporter Narrow Web & Label What's New Products Labels/Sleeves Cover - European Converting Drupa New Product Digest What's New Products Services Directory Classified Marketplace Advertisers Index Experience Speaks

PFFC - May 2008

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