Industrial Packaging Market

Industrial Packaging Market Size:

The global industrial packaging market size reached USD 64.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 84.7 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% during 2025-2033. The growing industrial activities, continuous technological improvements in industrial packaging, increasing trade and globalization, rising need for regulatory compliance and safety norms, and focus on sustainability worldwide are some of the factors impelling the market growth.

Industrial Packaging Market Analysis:

• Market Growth and Size: The market is exhibiting a stable growth because of the growing industrial activities and demand across numerous sectors. Additionally, there is an expansion of manufacturing base and user demand for packaged items.
• Major Market Drivers: Heightened industrial activity, especially in developing markets, and the need for effective packaging due to globalization and long-distance commerce is bolstering the market growth. Additionally, emerging sustainability trends, technological improvements, and regulatory compliance requirements are strengthening the market growth.
• Technological Advancements: The industrial packaging market recent developments like smart packaging, sustainable material, automation are contributing to the market growth. Moreover, the creation of tracking and safety technologies are enhancing the functioning and efficiency of industrial packaging.
• Industry Applications: There is a rise in demand for industrial packaging in various sectors, like chemicals, food and beverage (F&B), pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and construction.
• Key Market Trends: The growing move towards sustainability and environment-friendly packaging solutions is offering a favorable industrial packaging market outlook. In addition, the increasing demand for intelligent packaging technologies to improve tracking and safety is supporting the market growth.
• Geographical Trends: Asia Pacific dominates the market because of rapid industrialization and economic growth. Other regions are also witnessing growth, driven by the growing emphasis on sustainable and creative packaging solutions.
• Competitive Landscape: The market is defined by the existence of international key players who are focusing on strategic solution, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), research and developments (R&D) activities. Besides this, leading market players are expanding their reach and enhancing product portfolios to cater to different market demands.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Navigating regulatory landscapes and responding to environmental concerns are affecting the industrial packaging market revenue. However, recent innovations in sustainable materials and practices and adapting to emerging market needs are creating new opportunities for the market growth.
   

Industrial Packaging Market Trends:

Rapidly increasing industrial activity

The increase in manufacturing and industrial operations worldwide, particularly in developing countries, is strengthening the market growth. The market is driven by the escalating demand for a variety of industrial products, ranging from raw materials to finished goods, due to rapid economic expansion. As per the report by International Monetary Fund (IMF) published in 2024, the global economy is expected to expand at the same rate as in 2023, which is 3.2% in 2024 and 2025. Additionally, industrial packaging solutions guarantee the secure and effective transportation and storage of these items. They are developed to manage heavy, large, or dangerous materials. Industrial packaging serves a dual purpose of safeguarding products and facilitating smooth logistics and inventory control. Furthermore, the increasing need for customized packaging solutions designed for particular products and materials is propelling the market growth.

Recent technological advancements

Innovations in technology for industrial packaging are changing how products are packaged, stored, and transported. In line with this is the development of stronger, lighter materials that reduce transportation costs and environmental impact, which enhances market expansion. Additionally, the integration of advanced packaging technologies such as sensors, radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags, and other tracking technologies enables the real-time tracking of shipments to maintain the integrity and security of products. In 2023, the smart packaging market in the world was valued at US$ 35.9 billion. IMARC Group projects that the market will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.05% from 2024 to 2032, reaching US$ 60.9 billion in 2032. Moreover, recent improvements in design and manufacturing processes, which are enabling more efficient production of packaging materials and lowering waste and costs, are impelling the market growth.

Increasing globalization and trade expansion

The quick growth of globalization and expansion of international trade are vital factors that enhance market expansion. The United Nations (UN) report stated that the value of global trade reached approximately US$ 32 trillion by the close of 2022, showing a growth of about 26% from 2019. Businesses are operating worldwide, requiring reliable and efficient packaging solutions for shipping across large distances. Additionally, the rise in international trade deals and the growth of new markets are increasing the demand for standardized, compliant packaging options. Furthermore, the complex character of global supply chains requires flexible packaging solutions that can withstand various modes of transportation such as sea, air, and land, while adhering to international regulations and norms. Apart from this, continuous progress and financial support in industrial packaging are having a positive impact on the market by ensuring products reach their destinations in optimal condition.

Emerging sustainability trends across the globe

Businesses are being motivated by environmental and consumer awareness to implement sustainable packaging options. It is resulting in progress in materials, focusing more on recyclable and biodegradable materials, as well as renewable resource utilization. Recent developments in bioplastics, recycled materials, and lightweight packaging are reducing environmental impact and transportation expenses by lowering weight. In 2023, the global bioplastics market was valued at US$ 12.6 billion. The IMARC Group projects that the market will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% from 2024 to 2032, reaching US$ 31.9 billion in 2032. Moreover, the brand image and competitiveness may be enhanced by the deployment of sustainable packaging, as it attracts the environmentally sensitive demographic. In addition, many companies are exploring the possibility of closed-loop systems, in which packaging components are repurposed or converted into new packaging to minimize rubbish creation.

Rising demand for regulatory compliance and safety standards

Governing bodies and international councils are developing an intricate set of rules guaranteeing secure conveyance and containment of any items, most notably dangerous substances. Businesses must adhere to such rules to avoid being deemed violators and subject to deconstruction. In addition, such rules already compel packaging companies to continuously develop and adjust so that their product is always in compliance with various essential safety and quality criteria. It further secures the safety of the product to the consumer and assists in maintaining product quality upon travel and storage. Most notably, the sphere of industrial packaging is constantly developing to fit the updated sets of regulations which create many novel materials and technologies.

Industrial Packaging Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product, material, and application.

Breakup by Product:

• Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
• Sacks
• Drums
• Pails
• Others
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), sacks, drums, pails, and others.

Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are created for the transportation and storage of bulk liquid and granulated substances, including chemicals, food ingredients, solvents, and pharmaceuticals. They are favored for their strong structural design, which allows for easy stacking and handling, leading to optimized space usage in warehouses and during transportation.

Sacks, also known as industrial bags, are widely used for packaging and transporting a variety of products, including cement, chemicals, grains, and other bulk materials. They are known for their cost-effectiveness, lightweight nature, and flexibility. Sacks are commonly made from materials like paper, plastic, and fabric, each offering different benefits. Their design often includes features like easy-open and resealable options, making them user-friendly.

Drums are widely used for storing and transporting liquids, powders, and granules. They are particularly prevalent in the chemical, oil, and pharmaceutical industries. Drums are manufactured using various materials, including steel, plastic, and fiber, each suited to different types of contents. Their robust design ensures the safe transportation of products, especially over long distances.

Pails, or buckets, are used in a wide range of applications, including paints, adhesives, food products, and construction materials. They are known for their convenience and practicality for both industrial and consumer use. Pails are typically made from plastic or metal, offering a balance of durability and lightweight. They are particularly favored for their tight-sealing lids, which provide security against spills and contamination.

Breakup by Material:

• Paperboard
• Plastic
• Metal
• Wood
• Fiber
   

Plastic holds the largest share in the industry

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the material have also been provided in the report. This includes paperboard, plastic, metal, wood, and fiber. According to the industrial packaging market report, plastic accounted for the largest market share.

Plastic holds the largest market share, owing to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It is used across a wide range of industries due to its excellent protective qualities, lightweight, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and impacts. Plastic packaging is particularly favored in sectors, such as food and beverage (F&B), pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Besides this, recent innovations in plastic materials, including the development of biodegradable and recyclable plastics, are boosting the market growth. Additionally, plastic packaging's ability to be molded into various shapes and sizes, which allows for customization to meet specific product needs, is supporting the market growth.

Paperboard is commonly used in industries like food and beverage (F&B), pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods for packaging items that require a lower level of protection compared to other materials. It offers the advantages of being lightweight, easy to print on, and cost-effective for mass production. Furthermore, paperboard is ideal for creating boxes, cartons, and other forms of secondary packaging.

Metal packaging is used for products requiring high levels of protection and durability. It is often used for packaging hazardous or high-value goods, such as chemicals, industrial solvents, and certain food products. Its main strengths lie in its robustness, impermeability, and resistance to temperature variations, making it ideal for long-term storage and transportation. In 2023, the global metal packaging market attained a value of US$ 163.3 Billion. IMARC Group forecasts the market to expand to US$ 206.0 Billion by 2032, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5% from 2024 to 2032.

Wood is a traditional and important material mainly used for heavy-duty applications such as shipping large machinery, industrial equipment, and bulk products. Wooden packaging includes pallets, crates, and barrels, known for their strength and ability to support heavy loads. They are particularly valued for their sturdiness and ability to be customized to fit specific dimensions and weight requirements.

Fiber is particularly used for lightweight, cost-effective packaging solutions, such as boxes, containers, and partitions. Fiber packaging is favored for its flexibility, ease of customization, and relatively low cost. It is widely used in e-commerce, retail, and consumer goods industries for secondary packaging. Additionally, the recyclability and biodegradability of fiber materials, which aligns well with the increasing environmental consciousness, is favoring the market growth.

Breakup by Application:

• Chemical and Pharmaceutical
• Building and Construction
• Food and Beverage
• Oil and Lubricant
• Agriculture and Horticulture
• Others
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application. This includes chemical and pharmaceutical, building and construction, food and beverage, oil and lubricant, agriculture and horticulture, and others.

The chemical and pharmaceutical industries require packaging to protect sensitive products from contamination, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. They use containers like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and specially designed sacks to handle both solid and liquid substances. These packaging are made from specialized materials, such as high-barrier plastics and tamper-evident seals.

The building and construction segment uses industrial packaging for transporting and storing a wide range of materials, including cement, aggregates, and various construction chemicals. It requires robust and durable packaging solutions, like reinforced sacks, heavy-duty drums, and bulk bags, to withstand rough handling and harsh construction environments. The packaging in this sector is designed to protect contents from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors.

The food and beverage (F&B) industry requires packaging to safely transport and store consumable goods, often over long distances. The packaging in this sector must comply with strict food safety standards and is designed to protect against contamination, spoilage, and damage. Furthermore, the rise in the global food trade, coupled with the growing need for processed and convenience foods, is driving the industrial packaging demand.

The oil and lubricant segment requires highly durable and resistant packaging solutions to handle the transportation and storage of these hazardous materials. It utilizes a range of industrial packaging, including metal drums, IBCs, and pails, which are designed to prevent leaks and withstand the corrosive nature of these products.

Industrial packaging in the agriculture and horticulture sectors is used for transporting and storing various products, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. They require packaging solutions that protect contents from moisture, sunlight, and contamination, ensuring product effectiveness and safety. Furthermore, the growing demand for safe and efficient packaging solutions due to increasing food demand is supporting the market growth. The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) estimated that in 2023, about 282 million individuals worldwide, which is a 24 million increase from the previous year, experienced high levels of acute hunger across 59 nations and territories.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

Asia Pacific leads the market, accounting for the largest industrial packaging market share

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share.

Asia Pacific holds the largest market share as per the industrial packaging market overview due to rapid industrialization, economic growth, and the expanding manufacturing base in countries like China, India, and Japan. Furthermore, the region is experiencing robust growth in sectors, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage (F&B), which significantly contributes to the demand for industrial packaging. Additionally, the rise in consumer spending and an increase in international trade activities in the region are supporting the market growth. Besides this, the rising demand for sustainable and innovative packaging solutions in the region, influenced by environmental concerns and regulatory policies, is supporting the market growth.

North America has a well-established manufacturing sector and stringent regulatory standards, which is driving the demand for high-quality packaging solutions. Furthermore, the region is known for its technological advancements and innovations in packaging, particularly in areas of sustainability and smart packaging. Additionally, the presence of major global players and a focus on research and innovations are contributing to the market growth.

The industrial packaging market in Europe is characterized by advanced manufacturing capabilities, high regulatory standards, and a focus on sustainable practices. Furthermore, the implementation of stringent environmental regulations in the regions, driving innovation in eco-friendly packaging solutions, is catalyzing the market growth. Besides this, the presence of strong pharmaceutical, automotive, and food and beverage (F&B) industries in Europe is acting as another growth-inducing factor.

Latin America has expanding manufacturing and agricultural sectors, which are contributing to the industrial packaging market growth. Furthermore, the increasing urbanization and rapid economic development, leading to greater consumer demand and industrial activity, are supporting the market growth. Based on the data provided by the World Bank, global urban population is projected to rise to 6 billion people by 2045, a 1.5-fold increase. Moreover, the growing interest in sustainable and efficient packaging solutions is fueling the market growth.

The Middle East and Africa region is experiencing growth in the industrial packaging sector due to the expanding oil and petrochemical industry and the rising agricultural and manufacturing activities. Furthermore, the increasing focus on diversification of economies and investment in industrial development in the region is driving the market growth.

Leading Key Players in the Industrial Packaging Industry:

Key industrial packaging companies are actively engaging in various strategic initiatives to strengthen their market positions. It includes investments in research and development (R&D) to innovate and improve packaging solutions, focusing on enhancing durability, efficiency, and sustainability. For instance, in 2023, Mondi invested €16 million in new technology to produce FunctionalBarrier Paper Ultimate, a recyclable, high-barrier paper-based packaging range meeting customer demand for sustainable solutions, aligning with their commitment to a circular economy and sustainability goals. Furthermore, several companies are exploring new materials that are both eco-friendly and cost-effective, responding to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, they are expanding their global footprint through mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships, enabling them to tap into new markets and diversify their product portfolios.

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Amcor plc
• Berry Global Inc.
• DS Smith PLC
• Global-Pak Inc.
• Greif Inc.
• International Paper Company
• Mondi plc
• Nefab AB
• Orora Limited
• Smurfit Kappa Group plc
• Sonoco Products Company
• Westrock Company
   

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Latest News: 

• May 2022: Berry Global Inc. launched a range of high-strength refuse sacks that are manufactured from recycled plastics.
• May 2022: Smurfit Kappa announced its plan to invest EUR 35 million to build a packaging plant in Morocco.
• January 2024: Greif and IonKraft collaborated to develop the first reusable plastic jerrycan coatings, which improve sustainability and solve recycling issues. The goal of this creative partnership is to transform packaging options for a greener future.

Industrial Packaging Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the industrial packaging market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global industrial packaging market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the industrial packaging industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.