HISTORY OF THE PLASTICS INDUSTRY AND FUTURE TRENDS: INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXPOSITIONS AS PERSPECTIVE

摘要

Tradeshows like the National Plastics Exposition (NPE) and the K Show (held October 2004 in Duesseldorf, Germany) have traditionally been bellwethers of things to come in the plastics industry. This presentation will review the highlights of developments and structural change in the plastics industry through the eyes of the NPE (SPI sponsored event) and the K show (German Machinery Association). Both shows are held every three years and we believe that developments introduced at the shows reflect the trends in the industry. Presenting analysis of the data from past shows, the author will predict what can be expected from the industry in the 21st century. The Plastics Industry is the 4th largest industry in the US and will continue to grow globally while still thriving in North America. If you look at the industry on a global basis it is still experiencing above average growth.