Demand for pharmaceutical packaging in the US is forecast to increase 5.3 percent annually through 2014. Gains will be driven by recently upgraded regulations and standards that will boost demand for high value-added containers and accessories. Parenteral containers and labels will be among the fastest growing types.

US demand for cups and lids will increase 4.4 percent per year through 2014, driven by expanding foodservice revenues and favorable prospects for food packaging cups. Value gains will be bolstered by increasing demand for environmentally friendly cups, such as cups made from higher-value biodegradable resins or recycled content.

World demand for protective packaging will rise 7.8 percent per year through 2014. Advances will be stimulated by an upswing in manufacturing activity and the continued proliferation of Internet shopping. The US will remain the largest national market while China grows the fastest.

US demand for produce packaging will rise 3.6 percent annually through 2014. Corrugated boxes will remain the leading packaging type, while plastic containers see the fastest gains. Fruit applications will outpace the overall average, aided by trends toward healthier eating and increased availability of ready-to-eat fruit.

US tube and stick packaging demand will rise 5.1 percent annually through 2014. The fastest gains are expected for stick packs, driven by advantages of product differentiation, portability and material savings compared to conventional single-portion pouches. The dominant squeeze tube segment will slightly lag the overall industry.

US foodservice packaging demand will climb 2.5 percent annually through 2014. Flexible packaging will outpace rigid based on cost, convenience and performance advantages. Restaurants other than quick service types will post the fastest growth within the dominant eating and drinking places market.

US commercial printing revenue will rise 2.1 percent annually through 2014. Lithographic printing will remain dominant but will lose market share to processes better suited to shorter print runs, such as digital printing, which will lead gains. Best market opportunities include advertising, periodical, fabric and label/wrapper printing.

US demand for protective packaging is forecast to climb 6.2 percent annually through 2014, driven in part by the continued proliferation of Internet shopping. Value gains will be helped by greater interest in recycled or biodegradable materials. The fastest growth is expected for air pillows, foamed plastics and bubble packaging.

US corrugated and paperboard box demand will rise 2.4 percent annually through 2014. Gains will be driven in part by higher-value types with better graphics capabilities, including folding cartons and corrugated boxes. Internet-based shopping will also support box demand. Durable goods will be the fastest growing market.

Global demand for food containers is forecast to increase 3.9 percent annually through 2013. Bags and pouches will remain the largest product type while plastic containers will grow the fastest. Some of the best gains are expected in the BRIC countries of Brazil, Russia, India and China.