Pira is confidently predicting a dramatic increase in the market for flexible packaging over the next five years.

Its latest report, The Future of Flexible Packaging for the European Market, states that the growth rate for modified atmosphere packaging (used for cooked meats and delicatessen produce) could be as high as 11%.

That would result in a market volume of 43,250 tonnes by 2006.

Other major areas, such as baked products, tea and coffee and confectionery, are all predicted to grow by between 5% and 7%.

According to Pira, the key drivers for growth include the increased used of digital printing, base material trends, industry concentration and e-commerce and e-logistics.

The 320pp report costs 2,500, which includes subscription to a fortnightly e-mail news bulletin.

Contact: 01372 802080.