Market Trends of Italy Pouch Packaging Industry
Stand-up Pouches to Witness Growth
- Pouch packaging is significantly lighter than traditional packaging, cutting costs and reducing the environmental footprint during transportation. According to the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), advancements in production and materials have slashed the weight of some flexible packaging by around 50%. This, coupled with its space-saving design, allows more products to be shipped using less fuel and energy.
- Embracing pouch packaging, especially stand-up pouches, can yield substantial material cost savings. Opting for stand-up pouches not only trims material expenses but also boosts end-user profit margins. Digitally printed stand-up pouches, in particular, allow for complete customization, from graphics and logos to detailed product information, bolstering brand identity.
- Stand-up pouches are primarily used to package various types of foods, such as snacks, sweets, confectionery products, baby food, and more. According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the retail sales value of snacks in Italy in 2023 was USD 5,601.5 million, which increased from USD 5,142.3 million in 2020.
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Italian Food Industry is Anticipated to Witness Growth
- The Italian food-processing sector is witnessing a trend of consolidation, with smaller companies increasingly merging. Advancements in food technology, innovative marketing strategies, the allure of "Made in Italy" products, and a surge in exports have collectively fueled Italy's appetite for food ingredients.
- According to the US Department of Agriculture, in April 2023, domestically, Italian consumers strongly preferred baked goods, processed meats and seafood, and dairy items. Italy's food retail landscape is diverse, featuring hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience stores, major discount outlets, and specialty shops alongside the traditional appeal of corner stores and bustling open-air markets. With a robust infrastructure, Italy's food sector appreciates a rich network of ingredient suppliers, ranging from brokers and local importers to wholesalers.
- While most producers rely on intermediaries, more prominent players directly import ingredients. Food distribution predominantly flows through retail grocers, convenience outlets, and discount stores. For US exporters eyeing the Italian market, partnering with specialized ingredient importers is a common entry point. Such international collaborations and the import and export of food products are expected to push the market studied.
- Carni Sostenibili reported that 96.5% of Italians recognize meat's crucial role in their diets. The meat supply chains are eager and imperative to be at the forefront of the ecological transition. Conversely, confectionery, snack bars, ice cream, and pastries saw a boost as normalcy gradually resumed in the country.
- Sustainability has long been a focal point for sectors associated with companies making substantial private investments. Initiatives like 'Made Green in Italy' have been launched to empower meat producers, such as pork producers, to implement sustainable practices, including packaging techniques. According to Eurostat, the revenue of wholesale meat and meat products in Italy was expected to reach USD 13.3 billion in 2023, which was USD 12.74 billion in 2020. The increase in meat products is expected to encourage pouch packaging in the country.
