Metal packaging to reach $115 bn by 2016

Sustainable and infinitely recyclable, metal packaging is becoming a new trend. The sector is expected to reach a global market size of $115 billion by 2016.

Metal packaging provides a long shelf life, which improves health and environmental outcomes, said Sarten CEO Zeki Zaribekir at the Sustainability of Metal Packaging and Its Position in the Market conference in Turkey.

“Metal packaging benefits both the consumer and the environment. Despite all these advantages, it is still open to debate if metal packaging has the standing it deserves both in the market and also in consumer perception. Together we need to raise the awareness of both the consumers and the industry, and help metal packaging reach the standing it deserves,” said Zaribekir.

Sarten plans to hold the conference every three years.

“Demand for sustainable packaging is a fact of life. When companies do not focus on this, they risk losing to their competitors in their commercial strategies. Average recycling rate in Europe is 73% and metal packaging has the highest rate. We have a commitment to raise this average to 80% by 2020,” said European Metal Packaging (EMPAC) CEO Gordon Shade.

“Recycling rate in Turkey is 54%, and there is a great growth potential. Metal is a unique and permanent material. Since it has an infinite recycling loop, it creates a circular economy. Turkey has to become a part of this circular economy.”