Forecast Period
|
2026-2030
|
Market Size (2024)
|
USD 296.63 Billion
|
Market Size (2030)
|
USD 410.06 Billion
|
CAGR (2025-2030)
|
5.52%
|
Fastest Growing Segment
|
Food & Beverage
|
Largest Market
|
North America
|
Market Overview
Global Converted Flexible Packaging
Market was valued at USD 296.63 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 410.06
Billion in the forecast period with a CAGR of 5.52% through 2030. The global
Converted Flexible Packaging Market has witnessed robust growth in recent
years, driven by the increasing consumer demand for convenient and lightweight
packaging solutions. Flexible packaging, known for its versatility,
cost-effectiveness, and reduced environmental impact, has become a preferred
choice for packaging a wide range of products, from food and beverages to
personal care and pharmaceuticals. The rise in consumer preference for
on-the-go and easy-to-use packaging, combined with the need for brands to stand
out in competitive markets, has fueled the expansion of flexible packaging
solutions. These materials provide greater design flexibility and allow for the
incorporation of advanced features such as resealable closures, easy-tear
openings, and enhanced shelf-life preservation, making them highly appealing to
manufacturers.
Key drivers for this market include the growing demand
for sustainable packaging solutions. As consumers and companies alike become
more conscious of the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials
like plastics, flexible packaging offers an eco-friendlier alternative. With
innovations in recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable films and materials,
flexible packaging manufacturers are aligning their products with the
increasing preference for sustainability. The rising focus on reducing packaging
waste, coupled with growing regulatory pressures regarding packaging waste
management, has pushed companies to adopt flexible packaging solutions that use
less material, are lighter in weight, and require fewer resources for
production. These factors are expected to play a significant role in driving
market growth in the forecast period.
However, challenges remain in the market, primarily
related to the complexity of recycling and waste management of flexible
packaging materials. Despite the advancements in eco-friendly materials, many
types of flexible packaging still face difficulties in being recycled
efficiently, creating an ongoing challenge for manufacturers aiming to meet
sustainability goals. Additionally, fluctuating raw material costs and the high
initial investment required for advanced packaging technologies may limit the
market growth for some smaller players. Despite these challenges, significant
opportunities lie in the development of innovative packaging solutions that can
overcome these barriers, including the use of smart packaging technologies and
the integration of multi-functional features to further enhance the convenience
and appeal of flexible packaging products.
Key Market Drivers
Rising
Consumer Demand for Convenience
The rising consumer demand for
convenience is a key driver of the Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market.
As urbanization accelerates and consumer lifestyles become increasingly
fast-paced, there is a heightened need for packaging solutions that cater to
on-the-go consumption. Flexible packaging offers a significant advantage in
this regard due to its lightweight, compact, and user-friendly nature. Products
such as resealable pouches, stand-up bags, and single-serve packs are becoming
more popular as they provide convenience for consumers who are looking for
packaging that is easy to carry, store, and use without the hassle of
traditional rigid containers.
Flexible packaging also enhances
convenience by offering products that are easy to open and close, preserving
freshness and reducing spillage. In the food and beverage industry, for
instance, the demand for snack pouches, ready-to-drink beverages, and portable
meal options is increasing rapidly. These products are often packaged in
flexible materials that are easy to transport, provide an extended shelf life,
and allow for efficient portion control.
In addition, advancements in flexible
packaging design, such as easy-to-tear openings and resealable zippers, make
these solutions highly attractive to busy consumers. The growing trend for
personalized and customizable packaging that reflects individual preferences
and convenience is also contributing to the rise in demand. As consumer
priorities shift towards convenience, flexible packaging is increasingly seen
as an essential solution for meeting these evolving needs, leading to
significant growth in the market.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics, spending on food away from home increased by 20.1% in 2022,
accompanied by an 8.4% increase in food at home spending. Expenditures for food away
from home in 2022 exceeded 2019 levels, marking the first time since the onset
of the COVID-19 pandemic that this has happened. This surge in spending on
ready-to-eat and on-the-go food options underscores the growing consumer
preference for convenience, directly influencing the demand for flexible
packaging solutions that cater to these needs.
Sustainability
and Eco-Friendly Packaging
Sustainability and eco-friendly packaging have become
significant drivers of growth in the Global Converted Flexible Packaging
Market. As consumers become increasingly aware of environmental issues, such as
plastic pollution and waste, there is a growing demand for packaging solutions
that are environmentally friendly and reduce the carbon footprint. In response,
manufacturers are adopting sustainable materials, such as biodegradable
plastics, recyclable films, and compostable pouches, to meet this demand. These
packaging materials offer the same functionality as traditional plastic
packaging, such as product protection and shelf-life extension, while also
aligning with environmental goals.
Governments around the world have implemented stricter
regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling. These
regulations encourage businesses to explore sustainable packaging options that
can be recycled, reused, or composted. For example, in 2018, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that approximately 69 million
tons of municipal solid waste were recycled, and 25 million tons were
composted, highlighting the importance of recycling in waste management.
The food and beverage industry is one of the major
sectors driving the demand for eco-friendly packaging, as consumers
increasingly seek products with sustainable packaging that aligns with their
values. Retailers and manufacturers are responding by offering packaging
options that are not only functional but also meet the growing consumer
preference for eco-conscious products. The trend toward sustainability is
expected to continue growing, with brands investing in innovation to develop
packaging solutions that combine performance with environmental responsibility.
This shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly packaging is expected to play a
crucial role in the ongoing growth of the converted flexible packaging market.
Technological
Innovations in Packaging Materials
Technological innovations in packaging materials are a
significant driver for the growth of the Global Converted Flexible Packaging
Market. Recent advancements in materials and manufacturing processes have
enabled the creation of more efficient, sustainable, and high-performing
flexible packaging solutions. The development of multi-layer films and
laminates, for example, has enhanced the barrier properties of flexible
packaging, making it more effective in protecting products from moisture, air,
and light. This is particularly important for perishable goods, where
maintaining freshness and extending shelf life are critical.
Another key technological advancement is the
introduction of biodegradable and compostable packaging materials, which align
with the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives. These innovations are
reducing the environmental impact of flexible packaging by providing a more
sustainable option that can decompose naturally, addressing concerns related to
plastic waste. The development of plant-based plastics, made from renewable
resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, is another notable technological leap
that has contributed to more environmentally friendly packaging options.
Printing technologies have also evolved, enabling more
detailed, high-quality designs on flexible packaging. Digital printing and
flexographic printing technologies allow for vibrant colors and custom designs,
helping brands create eye-catching, distinctive packaging that appeals to
consumers. These printing innovations have made it easier for brands to
differentiate their products on store shelves and offer customized packaging
solutions.
The integration of smart packaging technologies, such
as RFID tags, QR codes, and temperature-sensitive inks, has further enhanced
the functionality of flexible packaging. These technologies enable real-time
tracking, authentication, and consumer engagement, making flexible packaging
not just a protective medium, but also an interactive one. These continuous
technological advancements are driving the market forward by addressing
consumer and industry needs for more functional, sustainable, and innovative packaging
solutions.

Download Free Sample Report
Key Market Challenges
Recyclability
and Waste Management
A significant challenge facing the Global Converted
Flexible Packaging Market is the recyclability and waste management of flexible
packaging materials. While flexible packaging offers various advantages such as
cost-efficiency and versatility, its complex structure often makes it difficult
to recycle effectively. Unlike traditional rigid packaging, which is typically
made from a single material, flexible packaging is often composed of multiple
layers, including plastics, foils, and papers. These materials are sometimes
fused together in a way that complicates the recycling process, making it
difficult for sorting and recycling facilities to separate and process the
different components. This results in lower recycling rates and increased waste
accumulation.
According to the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, containers and packaging materials accounted
for approximately 28.1% of municipal solid waste (MSW) generation in the United
States, totaling over 82 million tons. Of this, plastic containers and
packaging alone made up over 14.5 million tons. However, the recycling rate for
plastic containers and packaging was only about 13.6%, with nearly 70% ending
up in landfills. The lack of standardized recycling systems and
infrastructure to process flexible packaging materials exacerbates this issue,
especially in regions where waste management systems are not fully developed.
While some materials used in flexible packaging, such as polyethylene films,
are recyclable, the contamination of recyclables and insufficient consumer
awareness around proper disposal further hinder recycling efforts.
As the demand for sustainable packaging grows,
manufacturers and regulatory bodies are under increasing pressure to find ways
to improve the recyclability of flexible packaging. Some companies are
exploring innovative solutions, such as biodegradable films or packaging
designs that use fewer layers or are made from recyclable materials. However,
significant advancements in recycling technologies and global cooperation are
still required to address the environmental impact of flexible packaging waste
effectively. These challenges present obstacles for market players striving to
meet consumer and regulatory demands for sustainability.
Regulatory
Pressures and Compliance
Regulatory pressures and compliance pose
significant challenges to the growth of the Global Converted Flexible Packaging
Market. As governments and regulatory bodies across various regions enforce
stricter environmental regulations and packaging standards, manufacturers face
increasing pressure to meet these evolving requirements. One of the primary
challenges is adhering to regulations related to material recyclability,
biodegradability, and the reduction of harmful substances such as plasticizers,
solvents, and other chemicals used in the production of flexible packaging. In
many regions, there are growing demands for packaging to be more eco-friendly,
which forces manufacturers to invest in new materials and technologies that
align with sustainability goals.
In addition, regulations related to food safety and
consumer protection require packaging to meet high standards to ensure that
products remain safe during transport and storage. Manufacturers must comply
with stringent safety norms related to material integrity, hygiene standards,
and labeling to avoid legal issues and ensure the products’ marketability. The
evolving complexity of these regulatory requirements across different regions
and countries makes compliance a costly and time-consuming endeavor for businesses
in the flexible packaging sector.
Furthermore, as global trade expands, companies must
navigate the varying rules and regulations for packaging across borders. The
lack of uniformity in packaging regulations across regions can create
challenges for international businesses attempting to enter new markets. The
need for continuous monitoring and adaptation to new laws, as well as the
potential for fines and penalties for non-compliance, increases operational
costs and can hinder innovation in packaging solutions. These regulatory
challenges are crucial obstacles that players in the converted flexible
packaging market must overcome to sustain growth and maintain competitiveness.
Key Market Trends
Smart
Packaging Integration
Smart packaging integration is a
prominent trend in the Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market, driven by
the increasing demand for enhanced consumer experiences and product safety.
Smart packaging includes the incorporation of technology such as QR codes, RFID
(Radio Frequency Identification) tags, NFC (Near Field Communication) chips,
and sensors into packaging designs. These innovations allow for real-time
monitoring of product conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and freshness,
which is particularly beneficial for perishable goods like food and
pharmaceuticals. By embedding these technologies into flexible packaging,
manufacturers can provide consumers with a more interactive and personalized
experience, enabling them to track product information or authenticate the
product's legitimacy through smartphones and other digital devices.
In sectors like food and beverage, smart packaging
helps ensure product quality by providing visibility into supply chain
conditions, preventing spoilage or contamination during transit and storage.
For example, temperature-sensitive packaging used for pharmaceuticals or
cold-chain logistics ensures the integrity of temperature-sensitive items,
reducing the risk of product damage and enhancing safety. Smart packaging also
allows for anti-counterfeiting measures, with embedded security features that
authenticate the packaging, reducing the risk of counterfeit products entering
the market.
The increasing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT)
technologies further fuels the demand for smart packaging, as companies seek
ways to create more efficient, data-driven supply chains and improve consumer
trust. This trend is being driven by technological advancements, greater
consumer awareness, and the need for more efficient, traceable, and secure
packaging solutions. As consumer demands for smarter and safer products
continue to rise, the integration of smart packaging in flexible packaging is
poised to grow significantly in the coming years.
Increased
Use in E-commerce Packaging
The increasing use of flexible packaging in e-commerce
is a key trend shaping the Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market. As the
e-commerce industry continues to grow, driven by factors such as shifting
consumer shopping habits, enhanced digital platforms, and convenience-driven
purchasing, the demand for packaging solutions that can accommodate the unique
needs of online retail is rising. Flexible packaging, particularly lightweight
films and pouches is becoming the preferred choice for e-commerce sellers due
to its ability to reduce shipping costs while ensuring product safety during
transit.
Flexible packaging is ideal for e-commerce due to its
space-efficient design, which allows for better storage and optimized
transportation. Unlike traditional rigid packaging, flexible packaging can be
customized to fit various product sizes and shapes, leading to reduced storage
space requirements and more efficient handling. This not only lowers
transportation costs but also contributes to more sustainable practices, as
less material is needed for packaging, and fewer carbon emissions are generated
during transportation.
Another important factor driving this trend is the
growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious packaging. With
increasing awareness of plastic waste and sustainability issues, e-commerce
businesses are adopting recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable flexible
packaging materials to appeal to environmentally aware consumers. The ability
to create branded, visually appealing packaging that is both functional and
eco-friendly further supports the shift toward flexible packaging solutions.
As the e-commerce sector continues to expand,
particularly in emerging markets, the adoption of flexible packaging is
expected to increase, making it an essential part of the logistics and
packaging strategy for online retailers worldwide. According to the U.S.
Census Bureau, the third quarter of 2024 saw U.S. retail e-commerce sales reach
USD 300.1 billion, accounting for 16.2% of total retail sales. This
significant growth underscores the escalating demand for efficient and
sustainable packaging solutions in the e-commerce industry.
Segmental Insights
Material
Insights
Based
on the Material, Plastic Film emerged as the dominant segment in
the Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market in 2024. This is due to their
versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to meet the diverse packaging
needs of various industries. The primary advantage of plastic films lies in
their flexibility, which allows them to be molded into various forms such as
pouches, bags, wraps, and sleeves. This versatility makes them ideal for
packaging a wide range of products, including food and beverages,
pharmaceuticals, personal care items, and household goods. Additionally,
plastic films offer excellent moisture, oxygen, and light barriers, which help
extend the shelf life of products, particularly in the food industry. Another
key driver for the dominance of plastic films is their lightweight nature,
which reduces transportation and shipping costs. Plastic films are also highly
customizable, allowing brands to create packaging that meets both functional
and aesthetic requirements. The ability to print vibrant graphics and branding
on plastic films enhances product visibility and consumer appeal. Furthermore,
advancements in plastic film technologies, such as the development of thinner
and stronger films, have contributed to their widespread adoption. These
attributes, combined with cost-effectiveness and performance benefits, make
plastic films the preferred material in the flexible packaging sector.
Application
Insights
Based on the Application, Pharmaceutical
emerged
as the dominant segment in the
Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market in 2024. This is driven by the increasing need
for secure, convenient, and efficient packaging solutions for pharmaceutical
products. Flexible packaging offers numerous benefits in the pharmaceutical
industry, including enhanced protection, ease of handling, and cost-effectiveness.
The lightweight and compact nature of flexible packaging makes it an ideal
choice for packaging various pharmaceutical products, such as tablets,
capsules, ointments, and liquid medicines. One of the key drivers is the
ability of flexible packaging to provide superior barrier properties that
protect sensitive pharmaceutical products from moisture, light, and air,
ensuring the integrity and potency of medications throughout their shelf life.
Additionally, flexible packaging allows for the incorporation of tamper-evident
features, which is critical in preventing counterfeit products and ensuring the
safety and authenticity of medications. The demand for smaller, portable, and
user-friendly pharmaceutical packaging is also rising, driven by the increasing
preference for home healthcare and over-the-counter medications. Flexible
packaging’s ability to accommodate these consumer needs with user-friendly,
easy-to-open formats further boosts its adoption in the pharmaceutical sector.
As the pharmaceutical industry continues to prioritize safety, convenience, and
sustainability, flexible packaging remains a highly attractive option for both
manufacturers and consumers.
.JPG)
Download Free Sample Report
Regional Insights
North America emerged
as the dominant region in the Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market in 2024. This is due to
several factors, including a strong demand for innovative packaging solutions
across various industries and a robust e-commerce sector. The region’s advanced
infrastructure, high disposable incomes, and established regulatory frameworks
have fostered the growth of the flexible packaging market. In North America,
consumer preferences for convenience and eco-friendly packaging have
significantly influenced the market, with a rising demand for lightweight,
cost-effective, and sustainable packaging solutions. Flexible packaging,
particularly plastic films and biodegradable alternatives, aligns well with
these consumer demands.
Furthermore, North
America is home to major industries, such as food and beverages,
pharmaceuticals, and personal care, which are key drivers of flexible packaging
adoption. The region’s food industry, in particular, has witnessed a shift
toward flexible packaging to extend product shelf life, enhance product
visibility, and reduce waste. The increasing popularity of e-commerce in North
America also plays a crucial role, as flexible packaging is ideal for shipping
products in a space-efficient and secure manner. Additionally, strict
environmental regulations in the region have pushed manufacturers to adopt
sustainable packaging materials, further boosting the demand for flexible
packaging solutions. These factors collectively position North America as the leading
region in the market.
Recent Developments
- In October 2024, Mondi, a UK-based paper
and packaging company, announced its agreement to acquire the packaging assets
of Schumacher Packaging in Germany, the Benelux region, and the UK for USD 695.6
million, inclusive of debt. This strategic acquisition is designed to
strengthen Mondi's footprint in Western Europe while enhancing its capacity for
corrugated converting, offering significant integration prospects.
- In October 2024, ProMach, a global
leader in processing and packaging machinery, acquired HMC Products, a top
manufacturer and servicer of horizontal form fill seal (HFFS) machines. This
marks ProMach’s fourth acquisition in 2024 and enhances its flexible packaging
solutions portfolio. HMC specializes in fabricating new HMC HFFS machines and
refurbishing HMC/Bartelt systems for various industries, including food,
cosmetics, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals.
- In August 2024, Amcor reached an
agreement to acquire Berry Global Group in a stock exchange deal valued at
approximately USD 8.4 billion, forming a combined entity focused on consumer
and healthcare packaging with estimated annual revenues of around USD 24
billion. The merger, expected to be finalized by mid-2025, is set to bolster
Amcor’s presence in the U.S. by incorporating Berry Global’s expertise in
consumer packaging and health and hygiene containers.
- In March 2024, INEOS and its partners
launched a new premium quality snack packaging containing 50% recycled plastic.
Developed for PepsiCo’s Sunbites brand in the UK and Ireland, the packaging
meets stringent food contact regulations. By utilizing advanced recycling
processes, the packaging is made from plastic waste transformed into food-grade
material, complementing mechanical recycling techniques. This innovation
ensures compliance with EU regulations for food contact and other sensitive
applications.
- In March 2024, a collaboration of
companies across the flexible food packaging supply chain introduced new snack
packaging for PepsiCo’s Sunbites brand in the UK and Ireland. The packaging
contains 50% recycled plastic and meets strict food contact standards, created
by recycling plastic waste into food-grade material.
Key Market Players
- ProAmpac
Holdings Inc.
- Amcor
plc
- Sealed
Air Corporation
- Sonoco
Products Company
- Constantia
Flexibles Group GmbH
- Graphic
Packaging Holding Company
- Bischof+Klein
SE & Co. KG
- Honeywell
International Incorporated
- Tekni-Plex,
Inc.
- Transcontinental
Inc.
By Material
|
By Application
|
By Region
|
- Plastic Film
- Paper
- Aluminum Foil
- Others
|
- Retail
- Food & Beverage
- Pharmaceutical
- Non-Food
- Others
|
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- South America
- Middle East & Africa
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Converted
Flexible Packaging Market has been segmented into the following categories, in
addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:
- Converted
Flexible Packaging Market, By Material:
o
Plastic
Film
o
Paper
o
Aluminum
Foil
o
Others
- Converted
Flexible Packaging Market, By Application:
o
Retail
o
Food
& Beverage
o
Pharmaceutical
o
Non-Food
o
Others
- Converted
Flexible Packaging Market, By Region:
o
North
America
§
United
States
§
Canada
§
Mexico
o
Europe
§
France
§
United
Kingdom
§
Italy
§
Germany
§
Spain
o
Asia-Pacific
§
China
§
India
§
Japan
§
Australia
§
South
Korea
o
South
America
§
Brazil
§
Argentina
§
Colombia
o
Middle
East & Africa
§
South
Africa
§
Saudi
Arabia
§
UAE
Competitive Landscape
Company
Profiles: Detailed
analysis of the major companies present in the Global Converted Flexible Packaging
Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market report with the given market data,
TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs.
The following customization options are available for the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to
five).
Global Converted Flexible Packaging Market is an upcoming report to be released
soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date
of release, please contact us at [email protected]