State of the Plastics Industry in 2023

The state of the plastics industry in 2023 is one of steady growth and increasing demand. According to a report by Plastics News, the US plastics industry is expected to see a modest growth of 1.2% in 2023, down from growth closer to 2% in 2022.

In the article, Perc Pineda, chief economist with the Plastics Industry Association in Washington, states “U.S. plastics shipments growth is likely to slow to 1.2 percent because of strong economic headwinds.”

Packaging Materials and Online Shopping Impacting the Industry

One driving factor in this growth is the increasing use of plastics in the packaging industry. With the rise of e-commerce and a shift towards online shopping, there is a greater need for packaging materials to protect and transport goods.

Plastics offer a lightweight and cost-effective solution, making them an attractive choice for businesses. Plastic packaging is also lightweight and durable, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of products.

Plastic Use Increases Across Multiple Industries

The use of plastic in the construction industry is also on the rise. Plastic building materials, such as PVC pipes and insulation, are becoming more widely used due to their durability and cost-effectiveness.

The healthcare industry, in particular, has seen a surge in demand for plastic medical devices and personal protective equipment (PPE) due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Another factor contributing to the growth of the plastics industry is the development of new and innovative uses for plastic materials. For example, the automotive industry has begun using more plastic components in the production of vehicles, which has increased demand for plastic materials.

Challenges Lie Ahead

Despite this growth, the plastics industry is not without its challenges. One major issue is the problem of plastic waste and the impact it has on the environment. This has led to increasing pressure on the industry to find more sustainable solutions and to reduce the amount of plastic waste produced. This trend is expected to  push the plastics industry towards sustainability.

As concern about plastic waste and pollution continues to grow, there is increasing pressure on plastics companies to reduce their environmental impact. This has already led to the development of more sustainable plastic products and manufacturing processes, as well as the adoption of circular business models that aim to keep plastic in use for longer.

Plastics Has a Green Future

In response to these challenges, many companies in the plastics industry are implementing initiatives to increase recycling and reduce their environmental impact. For example, some companies have introduced recycled content into their products, while others have implemented programs to collect and recycle post-consumer plastic waste.

The use of recycled plastics has the added benefit of reducing the need for new plastic production, which can be energy intensive.  Theuse of bioplastics, which are made from renewable resources and have a lower carbon footprint, is also on the rise. These bioplastics are being used in a variety of applications, such as packaging, automotive parts, and construction materials.

Revenue Projections Remain Rosey in the Plastics Industry

Despite these challenges, the plastics industry is expected to see an overwhelming hike in revenues by 2027, according to a recent market report from MarketWatch. Overall, the state of the plastics industry in 2023 is one of growth and innovation, with companies working to meet the increasing demand for plastic materials while also addressing the issue of sustainability. As a result, the industry is well-positioned for continued success in the coming years.

Our mission is to maximize our value to hiring clients and job candidates and to enrich the lives of our team and local community by providing the highest level of service and remaining true to our core values. For more information on what our company can do for you, click here.

Are you a top-producing salesperson considering a new role in the plastics industry? Contact us to discuss your career path or browse our open positions.