Laminating is the process through which two or more flexible packaging webs are joined together using a bonding agent / Credit: Kinga Krzeminska at Getty Images.

Lamination is the process behind flexible packaging. Manufacturers can create a multi-layered material by laminating different materials such as films, papers or aluminium foils.

This material protects against environmental factors such as moisture, air and light.

Lamination can also extend the shelf life of a product by creating an enhanced layer of barriers that prevent exposure to oxygen, which can cause spoilage. This is particularly important for products sensitive to environmental factors or with a longer shelf life.

Lamination is an important step in the flexible packaging process and has several benefits, such as improving the material’s durability and strength.

In addition, lamination also provides a more attractive appearance to the packaging material, making it more appealing to consumers.

A growing market

A recent report predicts that the global lamination systems market will reach $720.5m by 2032, driven by increasing demand for high-quality materials.

The report highlights several factors contributing to the market’s growth, including the adoption of lamination systems in aerospace and automotive applications for printing purposes and the integration of advanced technologies.

Hot pouch laminating machines lead the way

Based on type, the hot pouch laminating machine segment is expected to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period due to the high demand for multi-functional laminating, such as cutting, perforating, or hole punching.

However, the cold pouch laminating machine segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 6.4% from 2023 to 2032, owing to a surge in demand for eco-friendly materials for laminating.

High temperature lamination leads the technology segment

Based on technology, the high temperature lamination segment is expected to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period due to the growing need for high-performance laminates that can withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures.

The low temperature lamination segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2032 due to several factors such as energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness.

Printing factories account for the largest market share

Based on application, the printing factory segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than three-quarters of the global lamination systems market revenue. It is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period.

Printing factories increasingly adopt high-temperature lamination technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

North America leads the market

Based on region, North America held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than one-third of the global lamination systems market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period.

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2032.

Key players driving the market

The report provides a detailed analysis of key global lamination systems market players, including Frimo Group Gmbh, Menzel Maschinenbau, Bobst Comexi Group Industries, HMT Manufacturing, Inc., Black Bros Co., Monotech Systems Limited, Graphco, Faustel Inc., DCN Atn and Robert Bürkle Gmbh.

These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions.

Opportunities and restraints

The report also highlights prevailing opportunities for the lamination systems market, such as the increasing demand for lamination systems in the food and beverage industry while noting larger initial investments in lamination technologies as a potential restraint.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic causing significant disruptions in the global supply chains, including those for lamination systems, the market has already recovered in the post-pandemic.