Aluminium foil shipments from European foil rollers for thicker foils, used for packagingcontainer and tray applications, and technical applications, were particularly significant showing the highest gains at 20.3 % (119,100 t).

Stefan Glimm, EAFA’s Executive Director, heralded the good news as “a sign that confidence seem to be returning to both user markets and consumers”.
Thinner foils used for flexible packaging applications also showed excellent growth, at +16.2 % (247,700 t). Exports to non-EAFA countries* were also up by +10.5 % (66,400 t), more proof that market conditions are showing signs of recovery.

Glimm concluded: “We are cautiously optimistic that the signs of recovery will continue for the remainder of 2010 and into 2011, but the alufoil sector must remain vigilant and ensure that it continues its pro-active approach to sustainable production and consumption, and innovative pack and material developments.”

Aluminium foil characteristics are strength, formability and barrier properties which have made it an essential part of many flexible packaging and container applications. Other uses of aluminium foil include automotive and heat exchange components, insulation material and many industrial applications.

The European Aluminium Foil Association is the international body representing companies engaged in the rolling and rewinding of alufoil and in the manufacture of alufoil containers and of all kind of flexible packaging. Its more than 100 members include companies in Western, Central and Eastern Europe.