The global flexible packaging industry enjoyed a strong year in 2017 with a sales growth rate once again significantly higher than U.S. GDP. All segments of the flexible packaging industry took part in this growth, but growth for value-added flexible packaging was even higher. Even under relatively flat or declining raw material prices, the industry revenues in 2017 grew at a healthy 4.1 percent. The growth in revenues for pouches grew at an estimated 7.9 percent, according to industry figures.