Synthetic paper market to record a CAGR of 3.4%

The global synthetic paper market reached a total of £216 million in 2011 and is projected to reach £222 million in 2012 and 263 million pounds in 2017, meaning it is set to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4%.

The term synthetic paper has not been universally defined because it is basically an opaque plastic film that is both printable and writeable.

Most synthetic papers are either biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), although there are sizable amounts made from polyesters and fewer so from polystyrene and PVC.

Although synthetic paper has been commercial since the mid-1980s, this niche market has undergone a dramatic change in market emphasis.

Initially aimed at replacing fibre-based paper, synthetic paper has, in addition, begun to encroach on plastic-based applications, most prominently in labels and tags.

The major applications of the synthetic paper market are divided into two sectors, which are label and non-label. The non- label sector that started using synthetic paper first consists of banners, maps, menus etc.

The non-label segment is expected to account for £129 million in 2012 and £152 million in 2017, a CAGR of 3.3%.

Labels are expected to total £93 million in 2012 and £111 million in 2017, a CAGR of 3.6%.

For more information on the synthetic paper market, see the latest research: Synthetic Paper Market Report

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