Packaging Market Trends

Global Packaging Market Overview

Packaging Market Size was valued at USD 5,32,645.6 Million in 2023. The Packaging industry is projected to grow from USD 5,49,119.9 Million in 2024 to USD 7,26,369.0 Million by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).

The Packaging market is rapidly growing due to the rapid growth in the organized retail sector followed by the emergence of sustainable and recyclable packaging materials to drive the market growth. Additionally, Blockchain-powered traceability followed by Innovation in Packaging Technology to Poise an opportunity for packaging market.

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Packaging Market Trends

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  Growth of the Organized Retail Sector to Boost Market Growth

  
  

The expansion of the organized retail sector has played a pivotal role in propelling the packaging market into a phase of robust growth. Organized retail encompasses the large-scale retailing of products through meticulously structured outlets such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and department stores. The operational scale of these organized retailers necessitates the packaging and transportation of substantial quantities of products, demanding a level of efficiency that ensures the safety, quality, and presentation of goods. Packaging assumes a critical role in the retail industry, serving as a multifaceted tool that shields products from potential damage during transit, safeguards the quality and freshness of items, and strategically presents an aesthetically appealing display to captivate and engage consumers. As the organized retail sector has evolved both in scale and significance, the corresponding surge in demand for packaging solutions has been nothing short of pronounced. The packaging industry has adeptly responded to this escalating demand by fostering the development of innovative solutions that not only meet functional requirements but also encompass visually appealing, eco-friendly, and cost-effective attributes.

The Emergence of Sustainable and Recyclable Packaging Materials to Drive the Market Growth

The ascendancy of sustainable and recyclable packaging materials stands as a pivotal driver propelling the growth trajectory of the packaging industry. In an era where environmental consciousness is a guiding principle, businesses are increasingly recognizing the imperative to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions. This paradigm shift is propelled by a confluence of factors, including heightened consumer awareness, regulatory pressures, and corporate sustainability commitments. As consumers prioritize eco-conscious choices, brands are compelled to recalibrate their packaging strategies, positioning sustainability as a central tenet of their operations. The incorporation of sustainable and recyclable packaging materials is more than a mere response to regulatory mandates; it has become a strategic imperative for market competitiveness. Brands that embrace environmentally responsible packaging not only align themselves with evolving consumer values but also differentiate their products in a crowded marketplace. This shift is reshaping the industry landscape, prompting stakeholders to innovate and invest in materials that minimize environmental impact while ensuring product integrity and appeal.

In 2024 Tetra Pak launched the Tetra Pak® E3/Speed, an advanced aseptic packaging line designed for high-speed processing and filling. This new system emphasizes improved efficiency and sustainability, incorporating reduced plastic use and enhanced recyclability.

In 2023 Amcor introduced AmLite Ultra Recycled, a new flexible packaging material made with recycled content. This product is designed for better sustainability while maintaining the high performance and barrier properties of traditional packaging.

Packaging Market Segment Insights

Packaging Market Packaging Material Insights

Based on packaging material, the Packaging Market segmentation includes plastics, paper and paperboard, metal, and glass. The paper and paperboard segment held the majority packaging market share in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant growth rate. Paper and paperboard are versatile materials widely employed in the packaging industry due to their numerous advantages, including sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility. These materials are derived from wood fibres, making them renewable and biodegradable, aligning with the growing emphasis on eco-friendly packaging solutions. Paper and paperboard primarily originate from wood pulp, obtained through the chemical or mechanical pulping of wood.

Figure 1: Packaging Market, by Packaging Material, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Packaging Market Packaging Type Insights

The Packaging Market segmentation, based on packaging type, includes flexible packaging and rigid packaging. The rigid packaging segment dominated the Packaging market in 2023 and is expected to continue dominating the Packaging industry during the forecast period 2024-2032. Rigid packaging refers to containers and packaging materials that possess a sturdy and inflexible structure, providing robust protection to the contents within. This type of packaging is commonly used for a wide range of products across various industries due to its durability, strength, and ability to safeguard goods during transportation and storage. Materials commonly employed in rigid packaging include plastics, metals, glass, and sometimes even wood.

Packaging Market Printing Technology Insights

The printing technology segment of the packaging market size includes offset, flexography, screen, gravure, and digital. The flexography segment dominated the packaging market in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period 2024-2032. Flexography, often referred to as flexo printing, is a modern and versatile printing technology widely used for various packaging applications. It is a relief printing process that utilizes flexible photopolymer printing plates to transfer ink onto a substrate, typically a flexible material like paper, cardboard, plastic, or film. The key components of flexography include the flexo press, printing plates, ink, and the substrate. The printing plates are typically made of a flexible polymer material mounted on a cylinder. These plates are engraved with the image or design to be printed.

Packaging Market End User Insights

The end user segment of the packaging market size includes food, beverage, pharmaceutical, beauty and personal care, industrial and others. The food & beverages segment dominated the Packaging market in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period 2024-2032. The food end-use industry for packaging plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, freshness, and convenience of food products from manufacturers to consumers. Packaging in the food industry serves multiple purposes, encompassing preservation, protection, marketing, and regulatory compliance. Preservation is a primary function of food packaging, as it helps extend the shelf life of perishable goods. Packaging materials, such as vacuum-sealed bags, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and barrier coatings, create a protective environment that minimizes exposure to oxygen, moisture, and other external factors.  

Packaging Market Regional Insights

By Region, the packaging market report provides market insights into USA, Europe, and Africa. The Europe packaging market held the largest market share in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a significant CAGR growth during the forecast period. The European packaging industry stands out as a multifaceted and dynamic sector characterized by a diverse array of materials, cutting-edge technologies, and versatile applications. Serving as a linchpin in safeguarding and facilitating the transit of goods, it concurrently wields a considerable influence on consumer purchasing behavior and significantly contributes to the overall sustainability paradigm of the economy. Among the European powerhouses in this sector, Germany has established itself as a formidable force, boasting a reputation for pioneering machinery, advanced materials, and a dominant presence in pivotal packaging segments such as paperboard, flexible packaging, and plastics.

The packaging market in the US is experiencing a notable surge in demand driven by the intersection of busy lifestyles and evolving consumer preferences. The shift towards convenience is evident as consumers increasingly seek packaging solutions that align with their hectic schedules. The food and beverage industry, in particular, is witnessing a substantial uptick in the demand for packaging that offers quick and hassle-free options, such as single-serve portions, resealable packages, and easy-to-open containers. This trend reflects a growing need for on-the-go solutions that cater to the fast-paced nature of modern life.

Figure 2: Packaging Market Size By Region 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

The African packaging industry is poised as a burgeoning prospect, marked by robust potential, and undergoing transformative developments that capture the imagination. At the forefront of this expansion are thriving consumer markets, characterized by escalating populations and increasing disposable incomes across the continent, acting as potent catalysts propelling demand for packaged goods. Notable players in this burgeoning landscape include South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Egypt, strategically positioning themselves as major contributors, fueled by the confluence of burgeoning consumer spending and rapid urbanization trends.

Packaging Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

The Europe, Africa and USA packaging market is highly competitive industry with diverse players, dynamic trends, and evolving consumer preferences. Europe, Africa, and USA packaging market is a dynamic market that serves a wide range of sectors, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and more. Across Europe, Africa, and the USA, this landscape pulsates with its own unique rhythm, offering a window into the global market's intricacies. The key players operating in the Europe, Africa and USA packaging market include Amcor Limited, Mondi Group, Sealed Air Corporation, International Paper, Sonoco Group, WestRock Company, Berry Global Inc., Constantia Flexibles, Huhtamaki, and Coveris Holdings, among others. Companies such as Amcor Limited, Mondi Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Huhtamaki among others dominate the market due to brand reputation, product differentiation, financial stability, and diversified regional presence.

Key Companies in the Packaging Market include

• Amcor Plc


• Mondi Plc


• Sealed Air Corporation


• International Paper


• Sonoco Products Company


• Westrock Company


• Berry Global


• Constantia Flexibles


• Huhtamaki


• Coveris Holdings

Packaging Market Industry Developments

In June 2024 Berry Global Group Inc. introduced a new rectangular Domino bottle that is tailor-made for beauty, home and personal care sectors. This bottle is made from plastic which is post-consumer recycled (PCR) to the tune of up to 100%. The front panel of the 250ml Domino bottle measures 75 millimeters wide and can be personalized on its side panels.

In June 2024, Smurfit Kappa, a sustainable packaging solutions provider, acquired Artemis Ltd., a Bag-in-Box packaging facility located in Shumen, Bulgaria. Artemis specializes in food and beverage packaging as well as produces films and caps for wine industry bags for bag-in-box items.

Amcor launched a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle specifically meant for carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) in April 2024. It’s available as a one-liter package. Manufactured entirely from post-consumer recycled materials at a rate of 100% it becomes the first-of-its-kind PET stock keeping unit (SKU). Amcor makes this move because they are committed to being sustainable and wants to help their clients achieve these goals through their products.

The United Kingdom has initiated the Circularity in Primary Pharmaceutical Packaging Accelerator (CiPPPA) aimed at driving development strategies towards improving recycling of medical devices & pharma packagings at end-of-life since April this year. CiPPPA, which represents various players across the drug supply chain is not-for-profit organization.

In February 2024, Rapid Packaging Inc. bought Lawgix International so that it could enhance its national logistics strategy with regard to its FIBC/industrial bags segment.

Shriji Polymers (India) Limited bought majority stakes into Parekhplast India Limited which deals on rigid plastic packaging solutions for the pharmaceuticals sector in December 2022.

FoodChain ID launched Sustainable Packaging Services, a line of goods and services that support environmentally friendly packaging requirements from customers, in April 2024. Sustainable Packaging Services blends new digital services with old to help manufacturers keep watch over and respond to changing global packaging regulations.

Volpi Foods partnered with C-P Flexible Packaging, the original flexible packaging company, in May 2022 to offer compostable deli meat packaging for the first time.

In August 2022, Spartech, which is an established supplier of engineered thermoplastics and specialized packaging solutions made Tufpak® high-temperature polypropylene films and bags available. These have international sterilizability characteristics and are majorly employed in biomedical field applications like drugs and biopharmaceutical industry products only plus other related fields.

Packaging Market Segmentation

Packaging Market Packaging Material Outlook

• Plastic


• Paper and Paperboard


• Glass


• Metal

Packaging Market Packaging Type Outlook

• Flexible Packaging


• Rigid Packaging

Packaging Market Printing Technology Outlook

• Offset


• Flexography


• Screen


• Gravure


• Digital

Packaging Market End User Outlook

• Food


• Beverage


• Pharmaceutical


• Beauty and Personal Care


• Industrial


• Others

Packaging Market Regional Outlook

• USA


• Europe
  
  
  
  • UK
  
  
  • Germany
  
  
  • France
  
  
  • Spain
  
  
  • Italy
  
  
  • Switzerland
  
  
  • Netherlands
  
  
  • Poland
  
  
  • Rest of Europe
  
  
  
  


• Africa
  
  
  
  • South Africa
  
  
  • Egypt
  
  
  • Nigeria
  
  
  • Ghana
  
  
  • Uganda
  
  
  • Sudan
  
  
  • Rest of MEA
  
  
  
  

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