A successful package is one that meets consumer demand and can adapt to changing trends. The package should also address concerns and demands from suppliers and consumers alike. One such demand that is consistently on consumers’ minds is convenience. We all want our packaging to be easy to carry, store and open. Bags and pouches seem to master these wants, while being aesthetically pleasing, delivering a winning package to all. In 2013, the U.S. flexible packaging industry grew 2.8% to $27.2 billion in annual sales and the 2014 forecasted growth is 3.8% to $28.2 billion. According to the Flexible Packaging Association, the flexible packaging industry continues as one of the fastest growing packaging segments in the U.S.
Wine, baby food and a more recent trend, soup, has been introduced in flexible formats, breaking the rigid mold that once ruled these segments. And now, more and more pet food, cereal and snack foods are continuing to become available in pouches and bags, proving that the future of packaging is going to have to be more flexible.