A new study from Frost & Sullivan predicts that the introduction of new environmental regulations and fire safety standards will herald a period of growth for the flame-retardant chemicals in Europe, affecting the plastics, automotive, construction, and electronics industries. More stringent flammability standards are already being introduced at the national and EU level, resulting in greater demand for more environmentally acceptable materials. The European Flame-Retardant Chemical Market report concludes that this represents one of the biggest challenges for producers of flame retardants.
According to Max Crosetti, Research Analyst at Frost & Sullivan, the market for flame-retardant chemicals was worth US$509.5 million in 2000. "By 2007 we predict market revenues will reach $671.7 million," he says. "Fire safety and environmental regulations will demand the use of these chemicals in many more industries than today and will result in end-users changing the type of flame-retardant they purchase to meet the latest specifications." The largest market for flame-retardants in Europe is the plastics industry, consuming about 80% of output. Europe's Plastics Industry is firmly commited to developing materials incorporating flame-retardant chemicals to meet higher safety standards, the report finds. Frost & Sullivan recommends that producers develop strategies to meet growing price competition and to limit product switching by customers.
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