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Global Flexible Packaging Market Size and Growth Trends

The flexible packaging market continues to experience steady expansion, registering a CAGR of 4.91%, driven by the growing demand for lightweight, durable, and sustainable flexible packaging solutions. As industries increasingly prioritize eco-friendly packaging, flexible materials have gained traction for their ability to reduce packaging waste consuming nearly 50% less material compared to rigid alternatives. In Europe, approximately 4 million tonnes of household flexible plastic packaging enter the market annually, underscoring its widespread adoption.

Asia remains a frontrunner in packaging innovation, contributing 67.8% of global patent filings in flexible packaging materials and recycling technologies. This leadership reflects the region’s strong focus on sustainable packaging solutions and advanced recycling methods.

Industry players are continuously innovating to align with evolving market demands. Huhtamaki has introduced mono-material flexible packaging solutions incorporating paper, polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP) retort, enhancing recyclability. Meanwhile, UFlex has developed tamper-evident packaging with anti-counterfeiting features, including holographic designs, security inks, and seals, ensuring enhanced product safety.

These advancements emphasize the industry's commitment to sustainable flexible packaging, technological innovation, and enhanced product protection, reinforcing the role of flexible packaging as a key component of the global packaging industry.

Global Flexible Packaging Market Revenue, 2019 – 2024E

The flexible packaging market remains heavily influenced by the food industry, which continues to be its largest consumer. The rapid expansion of the packaged food sector has fueled demand, with urban areas accounting for nearly 80% of this growth. This trend reflects the impact of rising urbanization and shifting consumer preferences toward convenient food packaging solutions.

As global food waste reaches approximately 1.3 billion tons annually, the need for sustainable flexible packaging solutions has intensified. Flexible packaging materials play a crucial role in extending food shelf life and minimizing spoilage, reinforcing their significance in the global packaging industry.

Europe Composition of Household Flexible Packaging Materials

Household Flexible Plastic Packaging in Europe:

• Approximately 4 million tonnes of household flexible plastic packaging enter the European market annually. 

Recycling Trends:

• Approximately 400,000 tonnes of household flexible plastic packaging primarily PE flexibles were collected and sent for recycling across Europe. 

• This equates to just 10% of the total household flexible plastic packaging produced, which is considerably lower than the recycling rate for overall household packaging. The majority of the remaining waste is either directed to energy recovery facilities or ends up in landfills.

Mondi Group, Global Net Sales, Euro Million, 2019 - 2024

Projected Net Sales Recovery and Growth: In 2024, projected net sales of more than Euro 7,000 supported by ongoing investments in sustainable packaging and innovation. Slight Decline Amid Market Fluctuations: In 2023, net sales were recorded at Euro 7,330 million, reflecting a decline from the previous year due to market fluctuations and cost pressures. Pre-Pandemic Stability: In 2019, Mondi achieved net sales of Euro 7,268 million, demonstrating strong performance and steady demand for its packaging and paper products.

Strategic Mergers, Acquisitions, and Investments in the Flexible Packaging Market

• Smurfit Kappa and WestRock, two leading companies in the packaging market, have merged to form Smurfit WestRock in a landmark deal worth USD 12.7 billion. This merger enhances their capabilities in delivering an expanded portfolio of sustainable flexible packaging solutions.

• Huhtamaki, responding to rising geopolitical uncertainties, has strategically exited the Russian market, redirecting its focus toward stable and high-growth regions.

• Veritiv, a major distributor of packaging materials, has been acquired by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice for USD 2.9 billion, transitioning from a publicly traded entity to a privately held company. This move strengthens Veritiv’s access to capital and strategic support for long-term flexible packaging industry growth.

• Novolex has announced plans to take Pactiv Evergreen private in a USD 6.7 billion deal, allowing for greater operational flexibility and a focused approach toward long-term expansion in the flexible packaging market.

Future Growth Opportunities in the Global Flexible Packaging Market

The flexible packaging market is poised for steady expansion, recording a CAGR of 4.24% during the forecast period. Rising consumer awareness and an increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions are driving a shift toward eco-friendly and flexible packaging materials.

According to a 2024 Metal Packager report, 57% of European consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable packaging, while 82% prefer products in metal packaging. This shift in consumer preferences is compelling businesses across the global packaging industry to integrate sustainable flexible packaging solutions into their product designs, aligning with evolving packaging trends and regulatory demands.

Scope of the Global Flexible Packaging Market

Makreo Research has recently unveiled an extensive report titled “Global Flexible Packaging Market Size and Forecast (2019-2030) – Share Analysis by Material (Metal, Plastic, Paper), Products (Pouches, Bags, Films & Wraps), Application, End-Use Industry, and Geography (Asia, Europe, North America, Middle East, Latin America)”. This comprehensive study provides an in-depth evaluation of the global flexible packaging market, with detailed insights into key regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and emerging economies.

The report explores both historical and current market trends, emphasizing macroeconomic influences, and industry developments impacting flexible packaging materials. It highlights significant trends such as the growing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions, recyclable materials, and advancements in lightweight packaging innovations.

The analysis extends to major developed and developing markets, including China, India, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, the United States, and Canada. It provides insights into regional demand patterns, regulatory environments, and investment opportunities across these regions.

Additionally, the report presents a competitive landscape featuring leading players in the global flexible packaging industry. Key companies profiled include Constantia Flexibles Group, TC Transcontinental Group, Mondi PLC, Amcor Limited PLC, International Paper Company, and Crown Holdings, Inc., among others.

The company profile section offers a detailed competitive analysis of major industry players, assessing aspects such as production capacity, sales performance, market share, and revenue. It also covers strategic activities like mergers and acquisitions, funding developments, and detailed company profiles with financial insights and segment-wise performance analysis. This extensive report serves as a valuable resource for industry stakeholders and professionals, providing a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly evolving flexible packaging market landscape.

There are 10 players covered in this report, to know more please reach out to sales@makreo.com