Industrial Packaging Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Pack Type (Drums, Pails, IBCS, Sacks, Others), By Application (Chemical & Pharmaceuticals, Oil & Lubricants, Building & Construction, Food & Beverage, Automotive, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Industrial Packaging Market was valued at USD 64.26 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 76.74 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.07%. Industrial packaging refers to purpose-built packaging solutions designed to protect, transport, and store goods across industrial sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, chemicals, and distribution. These packaging systems are customized to meet diverse industry requirements and are engineered to endure challenging environments, such as heavy handling, long-distance transportation, and exposure to environmental stressors. Common industrial packaging formats include pallets, crates, drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and heavy-duty corrugated boxes. They are constructed from durable materials like plastic, wood, metal, and reinforced fiberboard, which provide structural integrity and resistance to physical damage.

A key advantage of industrial packaging is its versatility and adaptability. Packaging solutions can be customized with features like moisture barriers, insulation, cushioning, and tamper-evident designs, especially for high-value, sensitive, or perishable goods. This makes industrial packaging essential for ensuring product safety and regulatory compliance, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and chemicals. The global industrial packaging market is poised for substantial long-term growth, with projections indicating it will reach a value of USD 2.23 trillion by 2050. This anticipated expansion underscores the increasing demand for robust and efficient packaging solutions, driven by factors such as global population growth, accelerated economic development across emerging markets, and evolving consumer preferences. These dynamics are fueling higher consumption across industries, including food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and e-commerce, which in turn propels the need for durable, scalable, and sustainable industrial packaging systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated growth in this market. Lockdowns and a sharp rise in e-commerce led to increased demand for protective packaging for online orders. The shift to digital commerce has heightened the need for reliable industrial packaging that supports efficient warehousing and shipping operations. Also, industrial packaging is a critical component in global supply chains. With increasing emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and product safety, the sector is evolving rapidly. Driven by innovation and global demand, industrial packaging continues to offer strategic value across diverse industries by ensuring secure, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Demand of Industrial Packaging from Pharmaceutical Industry

Industrial packaging involves the use of various packaging materials to protect, store, and transport goods from the producer to the consumer. This type of packaging is used in industries such as food and beverage, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, construction, and more. Industrial packaging solutions include bulk containers, drums, sacks, crates, totes, and others, designed to withstand harsh conditions during transport and storage. India’s pharmaceutical industry, currently valued at around US$58 billion, is projected to reach USD125 billion by 2030 and USD 425 billion by 2047. This growth is driven by increasing lifestyle-related diseases, an aging population, rising health awareness, and greater consumer engagement in healthcare. The sector's rapid expansion is expected to significantly boost demand for industrial packaging solutions. As pharmaceutical production and exports rise, the need for reliable, compliant, and high-performance packaging becomes critical to ensure product safety, shelf life, and regulatory adherence. This presents a strong growth opportunity for the industrial packaging market in India, as manufacturers seek advanced packaging technologies to support the scaling operations of one of the country’s most dynamic and strategically important sectors.

The pharmaceutical industry has a critical need for effective and safe packaging solutions. The industry deals with sensitive products that require stringent handling and storage conditions. These products, including drugs, vaccines, and medical devices, must be kept away from contaminants and environmental factors that might affect their quality and efficacy. The pharmaceutical industry has regulatory obligations that necessitate compliance with specific packaging requirements. These regulations ensure that products are appropriately labeled, tamper-evident, child-resistant, and capable of maintaining product stability throughout the distribution process.

The increasing demand for pharmaceutical products, fueled by an aging global population and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in a surge in the industrial packaging market. The need for safe and efficient distribution of vaccines, medications, and other healthcare supplies worldwide has put a spotlight on the crucial role of industrial packaging in ensuring product integrity and patient safety. The pharmaceutical industry's demand for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions is also driving advancements in the industrial packaging sector. Manufacturers are exploring the development of smart packaging solutions that can monitor temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors to ensure product quality and safety. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on the use of biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials to address environmental concerns and reduce waste in the pharmaceutical supply chain.

As the pharmaceutical industry continues to expand, the demand for efficient and reliable industrial packaging solutions is set to grow. The increasing focus on sustainability and innovation in packaging design is likely to drive further growth in the industrial packaging market as companies seek to meet regulatory requirements, enhance product protection, and minimize their environmental impact. The growing demand from the pharmaceutical industry is a significant driver of the global industrial packaging market. As this industry continues to innovate and expand, the need for advanced, efficient, and sustainable industrial packaging solutions will continue to drive growth in the market. Manufacturers and suppliers in the industrial packaging sector must adapt and evolve to meet the evolving needs and expectations of the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of healthcare products to patients worldwide.

Growing Demand of Industrial Packaging from Food & Beverage Industry

In the food & beverage industry, packaging plays a vital role in preserving the quality, freshness, and safety of products. It goes beyond just a means of containment; packaging serves as a shield against environmental factors, contaminants, and tampering, ensuring that food items reach consumers in optimal condition. By extending the shelf life and maintaining the quality of products, packaging contributes significantly to reducing food waste and enhancing consumer satisfaction. Innovative packaging designs have the power to captivate consumers and enhance product appeal. They not only catch the eye but also provide essential information to consumers, such as nutritional facts, ingredients, and usage instructions. Packaging can even facilitate ease of use, making it more convenient for consumers to access and consume their favorite food and beverage products.

As the food & beverage industry continues to witness remarkable growth, driven by changing consumer preferences and evolving lifestyles, the demand for industrial packaging solutions has skyrocketed. The increasing inclination towards convenience foods, ready-to-eat meals, and packaged drinks necessitates the development of effective and innovative packaging solutions. This trend has fueled the growth of the industrial packaging market, as manufacturers strive to meet the demand for efficient product distribution and marketing. Sustainability has become a top priority for the food & beverage industry, leading to an increased demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. The use of biodegradable and recyclable materials in food & beverage packaging has gained momentum, contributing to the growth of the industrial packaging market. This shift towards sustainable practices not only addresses environmental concerns but also resonates with consumers who value eco-friendly choices.

Another significant factor driving the demand for industrial packaging is the rise of e-commerce in the food & beverage sector. With the increasing popularity of online grocery shopping and food delivery services, the need for durable and efficient packaging solutions has become more pressing. Packaging must withstand the rigors of transportation and ensure that products arrive intact, fresh, and ready for consumption. As the food & beverage industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and environmental considerations, the demand for advanced, reliable, and sustainable industrial packaging solutions is expected to grow. The emergence of smart packaging, capable of monitoring product conditions and providing real-time information, is likely to spur further innovation in the field. This innovative approach not only enhances product safety but also improves supply chain efficiency and consumer experience.

The growing demand from the food & beverage industry significantly drives the global industrial packaging market. As this sector continues to expand, innovate, and adapt, its impact on the industrial packaging market will remain substantial. The food & beverage industry recognizes the critical role that packaging plays in ensuring product quality, safety, and consumer satisfaction, and will continue to seek new packaging solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market.

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Key Market Challenges

Volatility in Price of Raw Materials

Price volatility refers to the day-to-day percentage difference in the price of commodities. It is a measure of the degree of variation in prices rather than the actual price levels. This volatility has significant implications for various sectors, including the industrial packaging industry. In the industrial packaging sector, raw materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and wood are commonly used. These materials are highly susceptible to price fluctuations due to various factors, including disruptions in the supply chain, geopolitical tensions, and changes in commodity prices.

The heavy reliance on these raw materials makes the industrial packaging sector particularly vulnerable to price volatility. When prices rise unpredictably, it can have a substantial impact on the profitability and competitiveness of businesses operating in this sector. For instance, when raw material costs increase, the production costs for packaging manufacturers also rise. If these increased costs cannot be passed on to customers due to market conditions or the nature of the product, it can result in reduced profit margins for manufacturers. This, in turn, can affect the overall financial health of businesses in the sector.

Also, price volatility introduces a level of uncertainty in budgeting and forecasting for businesses. The unpredictability of prices makes it challenging for companies to effectively plan and allocate resources. Managing costs and maintaining profitability becomes more complex in such an environment.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand of Chemical and Hazardous Materials Packaging

Chemical and hazardous materials packaging involves the use of specially designed containers to store and transport potentially dangerous substances. These substances can range from corrosive materials and flammable liquids to toxic wastes. The packaging is meticulously engineered to withstand extreme conditions, prevent leaks, and safeguard the materials from any damage or contamination during transit. There is an increasing focus on environmental safety and the prevention of chemical spills, which can have devastating effects on ecosystems and human health. This heightened attention has led to the implementation of stricter regulations surrounding the packaging and transportation of hazardous materials, further fueling the demand for specialized industrial packaging solutions that prioritize safety and sustainability.

The rise in global trade and the ever-growing complexity of supply chains have also contributed to the mounting need for effective hazardous materials packaging. As the volume of chemicals being shipped across borders continues to surge, the need for reliable and secure packaging solutions becomes increasingly paramount to ensure the safe and efficient transport of hazardous substances. Given the substantial impact of this growing demand, the chemical and hazardous materials packaging sector has become a significant driver of the global industrial packaging market. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to design innovative packaging solutions that not only meet the specific requirements of the chemical industry but also comply with stringent safety regulations and environmental standards.

In addition to this, the trend is fostering a culture of continuous innovation within the market. Manufacturers are actively exploring new materials and technologies to enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of their packaging solutions. This includes the development of smart packaging systems that utilize sensors and monitoring technology to track and report the condition of the materials during transit, enabling timely intervention in case of any potential issues.

Segmental Insights

Pack Type Insights

Based on the category of pack type, the IBCS segment emerged as the fastest growing segment in the global market for Industrial Packaging in 2024. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) have emerged as the industry standard in the world of industrial packaging. Widely adopted by businesses globally, IBCs offer unmatched versatility and convenience. Primarily utilized in the oil and gas, chemical, and petrochemical sectors, these containers excel in storing and managing a wide range of products.

There are three main types of IBCs available: flexible, rigid, and foldable. Each type caters to specific needs and requirements, providing optimal product protection and cost-effective packaging solutions. Their ability to be reused multiple times, ample storage space, and compatibility with various industrial products contribute to significant reductions in overall packaging costs. The use of IBCs has gained traction in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverage, as well as oil and lubricants. These containers offer corrosion-resistant properties, making them ideal for the safe storage and handling of both hazardous and non-hazardous liquid applications.

By leveraging the advantages of IBCs, businesses can ensure efficient and secure transportation, storage, and handling of their valuable products, while adhering to stringent industry regulations and standards.

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Regional Insights

Asia Pacific emerged as the largest market in the Global Industrial Packaging Market in 2024, holding the largest market share in terms of value. Due to the significant demand from the food packaging industry in the region, the retail sales of grain, oil, and food in China reached a staggering 499.63 billion yuan (approximately USD 70.41 billion), marking a remarkable 13.8 percent increase from the previous year, as reported by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). Moreover, during the same period, beverage sales in China amounted to 63.46 billion yuan, showing a notable 6.3 percent year-on-year growth. The robust growth in retail sales is anticipated to drive an increased demand for packaging materials in the market.

The packaging industry in China, as forecasted by the Sea-Circular Organization, is poised to register a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5 percent during the forecast period, thereby accelerating the growth of the industrial packaging market in the Asia Pacific region.

Recent Developments

• In 2025, International Paper completed its UDS 7.2 billion acquisition of DS Smith, forming what is now considered the world’s leading sustainable packaging company. The newly combined entity, headquartered in Memphis with a European base in London, aims to strengthen its global presence and product portfolio. Legacy International Paper shareholders hold 65.9% of the new company, while DS Smith shareholders retain 34.1%. The company is listed primarily on the New York Stock Exchange and secondarily on the London Stock Exchange. This strategic move is expected to generate at least USD 514 million in synergies and accelerate growth through enhanced operational efficiency and an expanded suite of sustainable packaging solutions.
• In 2025, Amcor plc has successfully completed its all-stock merger with Berry Global, strengthening its position as a global leader in consumer and healthcare packaging solutions. The combined entity brings together complementary capabilities in material science and innovation, enabling the development of advanced, sustainable packaging solutions to meet evolving customer and consumer demands. This strategic combination unlocks significant new growth opportunities and is expected to generate approximately USD 650 million in synergies. With an enhanced global footprint and expanded product offering, Amcor is well positioned to deliver substantial short- and long-term value for both its customers and shareholders.
• In 2024, Veritiv Operating Company completed its acquisition of Orora Packaging Solutions, a major North American packaging and distribution business. This acquisition strengthens Veritiv’s position as a leading provider in specialty packaging distribution. The integration expands the company’s product offerings, enhances scale, and supports its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The deal adds nearly 3,000 employees to Veritiv’s workforce. Along with recent acquisitions of Vivabox Solutions, AmeriPac, and PAX Global, this move reinforces Veritiv’s growth strategy and solidifies its market leadership in the specialty packaging sector.
• In May 2022, Berry Global’s UK refuse sack business successfully launched a new range of high-strength refuse sacks, which are specifically manufactured from recycled plastics. These innovative and eco-friendly sacks are being produced at Berry Global's state-of-the-art manufacturing site in Heanor, Derbyshire. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the company aims to contribute to the circular economy by offering these recyclable sacks to customers in the United Kingdom.
• In May 2022, Smurfit Kappa Group PLC, a leading packaging company, announced its strategic plan to invest EUR 35 million (USD 37.67 million) in building a cutting-edge packaging plant in Rabat, Morocco. This state-of-the-art facility will be dedicated to manufacturing a wide range of high-quality packaging solutions for various sectors, including industrial, pharmaceuticals, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), agriculture, ceramics, and automotive industries. With this significant investment, Smurfit Kappa aims to cater to the growing demand for sustainable and innovative packaging solutions in the region, while supporting local economic growth and job creation.

Key Market Players

• WERIT Kunststoffwerke W. Schneider GmbH & Co.
• Mondi PLC
• Greif Inc.
• Global-Pak, Inc.
• Berry Global Inc.
• Smurfit Kappa Group PLC
• Tank Holding Corp.
• SCHÜTZ GmbH & Co. KGaA
• Amcor PLC
• Snyder Industries LLC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Industrial Packaging Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Industrial Packaging Market, By Pack Type:

o   Drums

o   Pails

o   IBCS

o   Sacks

o   Others

• Industrial Packaging Market, By Application:

o   Chemical & Pharmaceuticals

o   Oil & Lubricants

o   Building & Construction

o   Food & Beverage

o   Automotive

o   Others

• Industrial 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

§  Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Industrial Packaging Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Industrial 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).

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