Flexible Packaging Market Size and Forecast 2024–2033

According to Renub Research global flexible packaging market is experiencing robust and sustainable growth, supported by rising demand for lightweight, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible packaging solutions across multiple industries. In 2024, the market was valued at approximately USD 142.30 billion and is expected to expand steadily over the forecast period. By 2033, the market size is projected to reach nearly USD 201.66 billion, growing at a compound annual growth rate of about 3.95% between 2025 and 2033. This consistent growth highlights the increasing reliance of manufacturers and brand owners on flexible packaging formats to meet changing consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals.

Flexible packaging has emerged as a preferred choice in industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, household products, and industrial goods. Its ability to combine functionality, durability, and visual appeal while reducing material usage and transportation costs makes it a highly efficient packaging solution. As global supply chains evolve and sustainability becomes a strategic priority, flexible packaging continues to gain momentum across both developed and emerging economies.

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Flexible Packaging Market Overview

Flexible packaging refers to packaging made from non-rigid materials such as plastic films, paper, aluminum foil, and various laminates. Unlike rigid packaging, flexible packaging adapts to the shape of the product, providing lightweight, space-efficient, and versatile solutions. Common flexible packaging formats include pouches, bags, sachets, wraps, and rollstock, all designed to protect products from moisture, oxygen, light, and contamination while extending shelf life.

This form of packaging is widely used across food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, healthcare, and household product industries. Flexible packaging not only enhances product protection but also enables high-quality printing and branding, helping companies differentiate products on retail shelves. Features such as resealable closures, easy-open designs, portion control, and smart packaging elements further enhance consumer convenience and product usability.

The growing popularity of flexible packaging is largely driven by its cost efficiency and sustainability advantages. Lightweight materials reduce transportation costs and lower carbon emissions, while advancements in recyclable, biodegradable, and mono-material structures address environmental concerns. The rise of e-commerce and on-the-go consumption has further increased demand for flexible packaging solutions that are easy to handle, store, and dispose of responsibly.

Key Market Drivers and Growth Factors

One of the primary drivers of the flexible packaging market is the increasing demand for convenience-oriented packaging. Modern consumers prefer packaging that is easy to open, reseal, carry, and store. Flexible packaging meets these expectations while maintaining product freshness and safety. In the food and beverage sector, flexible packaging plays a crucial role in extending shelf life and reducing food waste.

Sustainability is another major growth driver. Governments, regulatory bodies, and consumers are pushing for reduced plastic usage, recyclable materials, and lower environmental impact. Flexible packaging typically uses less raw material compared to rigid packaging, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions during production and transportation. Innovations in bio-based films, compostable materials, and recyclable laminates continue to strengthen the market’s sustainability profile.

The rapid expansion of e-commerce has also significantly contributed to market growth. Flexible packaging offers durability, lightweight protection, and space efficiency, making it ideal for shipping and fulfillment operations. Additionally, advancements in printing technologies and barrier materials have improved the functionality and visual appeal of flexible packaging, further driving adoption across industries.

Leading Manufacturers in the Flexible Packaging Market

Amcor plc

Founded in 1854 and headquartered in Switzerland, Amcor plc is one of the world’s leading packaging companies. The company designs and manufactures flexible and rigid packaging solutions for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, homecare, and personal care applications. Amcor’s extensive product portfolio includes films, pouches, laminates, cartons, and closures. Its strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and global manufacturing presence positions it as a key player in the flexible packaging market.

Berry Global Group, Inc.

Established in 1967 and headquartered in the United States, Berry Global Group is a major developer of innovative packaging solutions. The company produces both rigid and flexible packaging products, including films, bags, liners, and agricultural films. Berry Global serves industries such as healthcare, personal care, and food and beverage, with operations spanning more than 200 locations worldwide. Its emphasis on material innovation and large-scale manufacturing strengthens its global market presence.

Sealed Air

Founded in 1960, Sealed Air is a global provider of packaging solutions designed to protect products, preserve food, and automate packaging processes. The company offers films, trays, protective packaging, and automated systems under well-known brands. Its solutions are widely used in food, healthcare, e-commerce, and industrial applications. Sealed Air’s focus on performance, safety, and sustainability supports its leadership in the flexible packaging market.

DS Smith Plc.

DS Smith Plc, founded in 1940 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, specializes in paper and packaging solutions. The company offers corrugated packaging, retail-ready solutions, and recycled paper products. DS Smith’s strong emphasis on recycling, circular economy principles, and sustainable material sourcing makes it a key contributor to environmentally responsible packaging solutions globally.

Huhtamaki PPL Limited

Huhtamaki PPL Limited, a subsidiary of Huhtamaki Oyj, provides flexible packaging solutions for food, beverages, healthcare, and personal care products. Founded in 1935, the company offers specialized pouches, laminates, labels, and barrier packaging solutions. Its strong export presence and focus on innovation and sustainability support its competitive position in the global flexible packaging market.

Product Launches and Innovation Trends

Innovation remains central to growth in the flexible packaging market. Companies continue to introduce advanced packaging solutions that align with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.

Graphic Packaging Holding

In 2025, Graphic Packaging introduced a certified child-resistant and curbside-recyclable paperboard package for laundry pods. This development represents a significant shift away from traditional flexible plastic packaging, highlighting the industry’s commitment to sustainability and safety innovation.

Mondi Group

In late 2025, Mondi Group expanded its food packaging portfolio by introducing solid board solutions and digital printing capabilities. This expansion strengthens its ability to serve customers across Europe and enhances its comprehensive offering of both flexible and paper-based packaging solutions.

SWOT Analysis of Key Companies

Printpack, Inc.

Printpack Inc. benefits from long-standing industry expertise, advanced printing technologies, and strong customer-centric innovation. The company is known for high-quality flexible packaging solutions used in food, beverage, household, and healthcare markets. Its capabilities in digital, flexographic, and rotogravure printing enable superior branding and customization. Strong investment in sustainable materials and barrier technology reinforces its competitive advantage.

Wipak Group

Wipak Group’s strengths lie in its emphasis on sustainability, expertise in high-performance materials, and strong presence in healthcare and food packaging. The company develops advanced films with excellent barrier properties and durability. Its commitment to recyclable and low-carbon solutions, combined with strong research and development capabilities, positions Wipak as a trusted provider of premium flexible packaging solutions.

Recent Developments in the Flexible Packaging Market

Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH

In 2025, Constantia Flexibles strengthened its market position through strategic investments and the acquisition of a leading European flexible packaging supplier. This move expanded its footprint in high-value packaging segments, particularly for food and pharmaceutical applications, and enhanced its technological capabilities.

UFlex Limited

UFlex Limited has made significant advancements in recycling technology, becoming the first company to conceptualize recycling of multi-layer mixed plastic waste. Its certifications for food-contact recycled materials highlight its leadership in sustainable flexible packaging and circular economy initiatives.

Sustainability Goals and Environmental Responsibility

Sustainability has become a defining factor in the flexible packaging industry. Manufacturers are actively working to reduce carbon emissions, increase recyclability, and promote circular economy practices.

TAGHLEEF Industries Group

TAGHLEEF Industries focuses on circular packaging, carbon footprint reduction, and responsible material innovation. The company is expanding its portfolio of recyclable, biobased, and compostable films while optimizing energy use and reducing waste across manufacturing sites.

Sonoco Products Company

Sonoco Products Company places sustainability at the core of its packaging strategy. The company aims to make its entire portfolio recyclable, compostable, or reusable by adopting design-for-recycling principles. Investments in mono-material flexible structures and recycling infrastructure reinforce Sonoco’s leadership in sustainable packaging solutions.

Market Segmentation and Competitive Landscape

The flexible packaging market is segmented by material type, product format, application, and region. Key materials include plastics, paper, aluminum foil, and laminates, while major product formats include pouches, bags, sachets, and wraps. Food and beverage remains the largest application segment, followed by pharmaceuticals, personal care, and household products.

Regionally, Asia-Pacific represents the fastest-growing market due to population growth, urbanization, and rising consumer spending. North America and Europe remain mature markets, characterized by strong sustainability regulations and high adoption of advanced packaging technologies.

Future Outlook and Conclusion

The global flexible packaging market is expected to maintain steady growth through 2033, driven by sustainability initiatives, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. Companies that invest in recyclable materials, smart packaging features, and efficient manufacturing processes are likely to gain a competitive edge.

As industries increasingly prioritize efficiency, environmental responsibility, and product differentiation, flexible packaging will continue to play a critical role in global packaging solutions. With expanding applications and continuous innovation, the flexible packaging market is well positioned for long-term growth and resilience.