Approximately 50,000 attendees toured more than 2,500 exhibits at Pack Expo, which was held Nov. 6 to 9 in Chicago. This record-breaking show participation correlates to the industry’s projected growth.

According to the “2016 State of the Industry U.S. Packaging Machinery Report,” published by P.M.M.I., The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, Reston, Va., the value of domestic shipments of packaging machinery is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 2.4%, reaching $8.5 billion in 2020. More than half of this growth is expected to come from the food and beverage sector.

“Growth in packaging is fueled not just by plant expansions, but also by the need to update operations, creating smarter, faster, safer, flexible and more sustainable lines,” said Jim Pittas, senior vice-president, P.M.M.I.

Tools to assist with traceability, from farm to table, are a major driver of growth. According to the report, the labeling, decorating and coding and case handling machinery groups are forecast to increase the fastest of all machinery types through 2020, with C.A.G.R.s of 3.9% and 2.5%, respectively. Much of this growth is the result of new legislation demanding increased labeling and coding, continuing developments in printing technologies and the proliferation of finished products in the market, including limited-edition and seasonal offerings.

“The forecast for the packaging machinery market is strong,” said Jorge Izquierdo, vice-president of market development, P.M.M.I. “We continue to anticipate growth in major market segments such as pharmaceutical as well as beverage. Factors such as changing consumer habits, new regulations as well as general economic development are fueling this development.”

Convenience packaging dominated the exposition floor, with suppliers showcasing their latest innovations in single-serve containers. This includes packages for beverages, desserts and meals.

According to data from Chicago-based Mintel, the refrigerated heat-and-eat meal category is exploding, as it appeals to consumers who are open to prepared meals that are less processed. New processing and packaging technologies allow for the development of fully cooked meals that retain inherent nutrients during distribution and reheating.

For example, Bemis, Neenah, Wis., developed the Micvac single, continuous safe pasteurization process. This technology requires little to no pre-cooking. Raw ingredients are prepped and microwave pasteurized in the package, reducing cross contamination and enhancing product safety. The technology delivers preservative-free safe, quality meals that say fresh for up to 60 days in the refrigerator.

Klockner Pentaplast, Gordonsville, Va., debuted the snapsil single-serve pack for dispensing individual portions of fluids, powders or viscous slurries. This includes everything from beverage mixes to infant formula and ketchup to salsa. The single-hand, easy-open pack releases its content in one snap, which is particularly useful for products designed for older consumers who often have limited motor abilities. The individual portions prevent waste and allow for on-the-go convenience. The pack may be colored or transparent, with the larger designs having dual functionality to be a dipping container or a squeeze pack.

The 2016 Trends Report from the Foodservice Packaging Institute, Falls Church, Va., explained that millennials are driving many of the changes in the packaging industry. This includes their desire for foods that are convenient and adaptable to on-the-go lifestyles. Millennials are propelling meal delivery programs, too, which require new and innovative packaging that can withstand the rigors of shipping and still deliver on freshness and shelf life.

“Each year our trends report searches for common threads found throughout the entire food service packaging value chain,” said Lynn Dyer, president of the F.P.I. “This year more than ever, it’s hard to deny the influence of the millennial generation on the food service packaging industry. As such a large, influential piece of the population, the opinions and ideals of millennials are a defining factor, leaving an impression on the industry.”

Changes in preparation and distribution of meals are driving other trends, such as an increased interest in tamper-evident packaging and food safety. This year’s report also highlights the fact that environmentally friendly, sustainable, recyclable and compostable packaging are moving beyond trendy to now being a regular part of doing business. This is driving growth of flexible packaging.

Read more on this at Baking Business.