Hello and welcome to the June edition of Packaging Today. In this issue we take a look at the flexible packaging sector and
analyse some of the key developments taking place in this field.
The flexible packaging market is a buoyant, growing segment of the overall packaging mix. Recent research published by Smithers Pira forecasts that the sector is set to grow by an average of 5% per annum from 2012 to 2017, at which point it will account for 37 million tonnes of material.
We also use this edition to discuss the innovation that is taking place in the field of modern vision systems. As David Longfield finds, vision technology now has to perform a wider role than simply controlling the most common quality control problems typically experienced in high-speed packaging manufacture.
And, with many firms in the retail space already well under way with their festive campaigns, we shine the spotlight on luxury goods and gifts. These segments represent a massive opportunity for brand owners to present their product offering in a special, added-value fashion, often in a bid to pique consumer interest during the festive and holiday periods. We take a look at some forward-thinking suppliers.
Finally, as readers of this comment section may have realised, I am a major advocate of the trade show calendar and the important role such events play in bringing the industry together.
As the dust settles on what was a no-doubt successful Total exhibition in Birmingham, we now look forward to the next iterations of shows such as Packaging Innovations in London and the Brussels Labelexpo showcase.
Companies exhibiting at these events are demonstrating a major commitment to the industry. Equally, it can be said that this commitment needs to be matched by that of the visitors in order to help make such events a success.
Taking time out of busy schedules is more of a challenge than ever, but the rewards are, arguably, even greater. So I implore you all to visit at least one packaging trade event this year.
This issue of Packaging Today is my last as Editor. It has been a pleasure helping to put together a title that covers such a buoyant, innovative and diverse industry.
Best of luck in the future and I hope the remainder of 2013 proves to be a successful one for you all.
Tim Sheahan, Packaging Group Editor
