Fast changing consumer preferences create opportunities for growth of packaging, says PMMI

The impact of changing and diversifying consumer demands were key takeaways from the 2015 State of the Industry: US Packaging Machinery Report, shared by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

The study highlighted these shifts toward on-the-go and clean-label products while, more than ever, brand owners must also tackle the challenges associated with a growing variety of consumer preferences.

Continuous collaboration between consumer goods manufacturers (CPGs) and technology suppliers is necessary to speed the implementation of new processing and packaging solutions, stated PMMI.

The State of the Industry Report noted that "Improved information on nutrition and growing consumer health consciousness, coupled with increased travel and busy lifestyles, have driven demand for different products. This has led to the growth of indulgent yet healthy foods, convenience foods, different portion sizes (e.g. single-serve packaging), different packaging designs and completely new foods."

Consumers' demands are pressing the industry for innovative processing and packaging technologies, and they need them now.

"Speed matters," emphasized Charles D. Yuska, President and CEO, PMMI. "As the pressure mounts for CPGs to adapt their operations, immediate access to solutions providers is critical to their success. That’s why it is our number one priority to connect the makers of goods around the world with the suppliers they rely on."