The in-mold label market has the most complex market structure and value chain configuration of any packaging decoration technology, according to a new report from AWA Alexander Watson Associates. The positioning of the molder between label printer and end user/brand owner is not strictly an additional value chain step, as it basically integrates the supply of containers – not usually a feature of the label value chain – with the labeling operation, which is normally a part of the filling operation conducted by the end user.
In its latest study, AWA estimated that the in-mold label market grew by 1.8 percent in 2023. For the period 2023-2026 the global market for in-mold labels is forecast to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 3.3 percent.
Regionally, Europe claims the largest market share with 56 percent of production happening there. North America follows with 22 percent, Asia with 13 percent, and South America and AME with 5 percent and 4 percent, respectively.
