Demand for pouches is expected to grow 3.7% per year to $10.6 billion by 2023, according to a study released by The Freedonia Group, Cleveland, Ohio. Pouch design continues to evolve and now is expanding to include convenience-focused closure and fitment innovations that were once only available on rigid packaging.

Features offering convenience, such as resealability, spouts and stick packs will see the fastest growth in their integration. Features primarily for functionality or aesthetics will see a more moderate rate of uptake.

In general, pouches – particularly stand-up types – will continue to provide amenability to high-quality graphics and the perception of a more contemporary packaging format.

The snack market is the largest outlet for pouches, as they provide effective means to package single-portion quantities of product.

Demand for all types of converted flexible packaging is forecast to increase 2.9% annually to $22.8 billion in 2023. The ongoing conversion from rigid to flexible formats and consumer interest in products packaged for single servings or uses will continue to drive gains.