Innovation and communication key to glass resurgence, says O-I

While industry experts have been predicting a further erosion of the market share of glass packaging at the hands of PET and flexibles, the material is set for growth, says Owens-Illinois (O-I).

Erasmo Schutzer, company vice president and chief marketing officer, told FoodProductionDaily.com that strong consumer preference for glass meant future prospects for the material are good.

He concedes that a lack of innovation and communication in recent years has seen glass growth lag behind rival materials.

But he is convinced that when glass players ramp up innovation, focus on lightweighting and above all push the positives about the material in terms of sustainability, consumers and packaging suppliers will return.