Cost-Cutting Trends Hit Europe

(click to enlarge) Material percentages in the European Specialty Medical Packaging Market.

Interest in lowering costs but maintaining quality is sweeping the globe, and the European medical packaging is no different, reports AWA Alexander Watson Associates (AWA; Amsterdam; McLean, VA). The company released its findings in its “European Specialty Medical Packaging Market Outlook 2008” in December 2008.

Pressure from hospitals and health groups is driving demand for lower-cost materials, such as thinner structures. Other trends include increased interest in automatic thermoforming and potential moves from blister packs to pouches.

Outsourcing is also a factor in cost cutting. “Globalization of the market is inducing medical device manufacturers to stay in Europe for high-tech devices, but source lower cost-items form Asia and other low-cost manufacturing areas,” reports AWA.

Despite the move toward reducing costs, European medical packagers are striving to meet higher standards in order to comply with ISO 11607, AWA notes.

Paper is the most widely used material, holding a market share of 52%. Rollstock is the market’s most prevalent format, with 56% of the market.

For more details or to order the December 2008 report, visit www.awa-bv.com.