In-mold Electronics (IME) is an emerging market and the process enables the embedding of functional electronics, lighting and touch controls inside thin 3D injection molded plastics, which traditionally have been decorative only. As an industry, it brings together different industries to work in collaboration to develop specific innovative solutions. The process combines electronics and graphical printing on a 2D sheet which is then formed or molded into a 3D shape. There are many different government funded centres and venture capitalists around the world that fund such projects, the main development hub being Europe. 

There are IME projects at diverse stages of development and it is evident that over recent years, IME solutions have progressed from those that are in the research and development phase to commercial manufacturing. IME is gaining momentum and after a few false starts the market, even though still in the embryonic market phase, is witnessing healthy growth. The supply chain is becoming more robust with key players, especially in the raw material sector of the market developing product ranges e.g. films and conductive inks etc. specifically for this process. 

In 2017, AWA estimate that the global IME market was in the region of xx mln sqm and it is forecast to grow at a rate of xx% per annum until 2020. The growth is supported by brand owners that are valuing the differentiation that IME can bring to their products from both a design and functionality perspective. They realise the need to innovate to remain competitive especially in the developed regions of the world when they are competing against lower cost markets.