Cell Phones Energize Market

Based upon study projections conducted by the Freedonia Group, the strong demand for battery-powered products used in cellular phones and digital cameras, for example, indicate demand for primary and secondary batteries in the U.S. will grow 5.9% annually through 2009 to $14.8 billion. The demand for expensive batteries, such as lithium-based cells, will continue to provide market gains. Lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, and nickel-metal hydride batteries will show the strongest growth, even as lead acid batteries will account for nearly 60% of the secondary battery sales in 2009.

The study also projected world battery demand will exceed $65 million dollars, increasing 6.5% through 2008. Because of acceleration in economic growth, rising personal income levels and ongoing industrialization efforts, China and other developing countries in Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa/Mideast and Latin America will record above average market gains. The U.S., Western Europe and Japan will strengthen as well, fueled by favorable economic conditions and higher income levels.