$41.3 Billion-Worth of Metal Cans?

Continued use of glass bottles and the growing popularity of PET pack aging have had a significant impact on the metal-cans industry, according to the market-research firm Global Industry Analysts Inc ., San Jose, Calif.

To stave off competition, manufacturers are adopting innovative forming techniques and focusing on durability, visual appeal, and fast production. All in all, the firm thinks the world market for metal cans, barrels, drums, and pails could reach 398,312 million units by 2010. Some 60% of the containers will go to the U.S. and Europe. Aluminum cans make up the largest product segment, and beverages constitute the leading end-use.