Plastics Put Glass Industry Under Threat

The glass packaging market is facing a meagre growth rate, largely due to the threat represented by plastics, analysts say.

In their report on the glass packaging market, Global Industry Analysts noted the plastics industry is expected to outpace all other packaging materials due to its continuing technological advancement and performance benefits.

The glass packaging market is expected to reach sales of 319 billion units - worth $36.5bn - by 2010.

The report says consumer beverages make up 75% of total world consumption of glass packaging - this is expected to grow by 2.9% in terms of value.

"Prestige drinks such as champagne, beer and other fizzy drinks, traditionally marketed in glass bottles, are important for maintaining the brand image and quality consciousness of the consumer," the report says.

"Although Europe retains the largest chunk of over 42% of the glass packaging demand, the Asia Pacific market is expected to post strong results in the coming years, mostly due to promising performance from the Chinese market."
Source: packaging-technology