High Barrier Packaging Films Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Multi-layer packaging demand increase: Multi-layer packaging combines different layers of material with specific properties to offer enhanced protection, mainly against moisture, UV light, and oxygen. This packaging provides necessary protection to the products, without compromising on durability and transparency. As industries focus on meeting both performance and sustainability requirements, multi-layer packaging with high-barrier properties continues to drive growth in the high barrier packaging films market. For instance, in September 2020, Amcor and Nestle announced their plans to launch the world’s first recyclable flexible retort pouch, the Purina wet cat food brand, in the Netherlands.
• Rising pharmaceutical and medical device packaging: This driven by the need for secure, protective packaging solutions that ensure product stability and safety. These devices are highly sensitive to environmental factors including, moisture, oxygen, UV light, and contamination. High-barrier films prevent degradation, maintain efficacy, and ensure starility throughtout the supply chain. Furthermore, with stringent regulatory standards from the FDA and EMA, packaging must meet the requirements. Additionally, rising healthcare needs fueled by an aging population accelerates the demand for advanced packaging solutions. In October 2023, Solvay announced the launch of Diofan Ultra736 which is a PVDC coating solution with an ultra-high water vapor barrier that allows carbon footprint reduction for pharmaceutical blister films.
• Shift in preference from unpackaged foods to packaged foods: Consumers are increasingly opting for packaged food products, mainly in urban areas with busy lifestyles. As people become more health conscious and aware of food safety, the demand for packaging that preserves nutrients and prevents contamination is also rising. Additionally, the global shift towards online grocery shopping has boosted the need for durable and effective packaging, further driving the need for high-barrier packaging films. In July 2021, Amcor invested in BOBST MASTER D 1000 S which is a multi-technology laminator. The machine is installed at Amcor’s Sustainability Centre of Excellence in Belgium, for use in the development and testing of new multi-layer product development for the company, worldwide.

Challenges

• Susceptibility to degradation: High-barrier films made from bio-degradable or bio-based materials can be prone to degradation when exposed to extreme heat. Furthermore, it is susceptible to moisture penetration, leading to compromised quality, reduced freshness, shorter shelf-life, or spoilage of the products. Balancing these properties is a key challenge for manufacturers and can lead to increased waste, countering the sustainability goals.
• Fluctuation in raw materials prices: These fluctuations cause unpredictable cost structures which can severely minimize profit margins and complicate pricing strategies. This is often led by supply chain disruptions, shifts in key material costs, and geopolitical issues. This further leads to the comprising of product quality as a result of using comparatively lower-grade materials to match the rising expenses.