Alufoil output jumps in H1 2010
The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) announced an alufoil output of 432 Kt for the year to the end of June – which represents a year-on-year jump of 16.4 per cent. The production figure is also slightly higher than pre-recession levels in the same period in 2008.
Food sector demand
Thinner foils used for flexible packaging applications also showed strong growth at 16.2 per cent at 247,700 t. Exports to non-EAFA countries rose 10.5 per cent to 66.4 Kt. As the food industry mainly uses thinner foils, it was apparent that demand from this sector was good, industry group director Stefan Glimm told FoodProductionDaily.com.
Shipments from European alufoil rollers for thicker foils - used in packaging container and tray applications, as well as for technical applications, - posted highest gains at 20.3 per cent (119Kt) compared to the previous year.
The group said the figures were “more proof that market conditions are showing signs of recovery”, adding that upward trend would continue into next year.
“We are cautiously optimistic that the signs of recovery will continue for the remainder of 2010 and into 2011,” Glimm added. “But the alufoil sector must remain vigilant and ensure that it continues its pro-active approach to sustainable production and consumption, and innovative pack and material developments.”
First quarter
The performance continued the upward trend shown in the first three months of the year – when sales approached pre-crisis 2008 levels with a year-on-year leap of 17 per cent. Demand for thinner gauge foil, however, showed strongest growth – with demand jumping by a fifth, compared to 16 per cent for thicker foil.
