Advancements in material science have enabled manufacturers to create better flexible packaging materials for the food and beverage industry. The new designs aim at minimizing waste, reducing costs and attracting customers while maintaining the present condition of products on the store shelves. However, flexible packaging companies have to address challenges such as rising commodity prices and sustainability challenges in developing new products.
SpendEdge, which offers procurement market intelligence for leading manufacturers, highlighted some of the key challenges facing the flexible packaging industry.
- Rising raw material costs. Paper, plastic, resins, films, paperboard, and adhesives are some of the common raw materials used by flexible packaging companies. In recent times, these commodities have witnessed a steep rise in their prices. Also, the prices for materials such as polypropylene used in resins, bottles, and packaging films have increased due to reduced supply and are impacting the growth of the flexible packaging industry.
- Rapid technological changes. CPG companies constantly look out for ways to improve and address consumers' demands. This increases the pressure on flexible packaging companies to keep pace with fast-changing demands. Also, this compels them to make constant technology upgrades which require huge capital investments.
- Sustainability challenges. Many governmental organizations, consumers and environmental groups keep a close watch on flexible packing companies due to waste created by them. Companies, therefore, need to develop designs that can address environmental issues such as end-of-life disposal, and reduction of greenhouse gas and water footprints to sustain themselves. This at times proves to be a costly process.
