The global metal packaging market size was estimated at USD 148.13 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2025 to 2030. The metal packaging industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors spanning sustainability, convenience, and industry innovation. One of the primary drivers is consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
The increasing environmental awareness has led many companies and consumers to prioritize packaging materials that are recyclable and have a lower environmental footprint. Metals, particularly aluminum and steel, are highly recyclable, with aluminum being one of the most recycled materials globally. For example, major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have made strong commitments to using more recycled materials in their packaging, signaling a shift toward more eco-friendly packaging options. This demand for sustainability is pushing the market toward innovative metal packaging solutions that align with circular economy principles.
The rising popularity of convenient, portable packaging formats is also contributing to the market growth. Metal packaging, especially in cans and tins, is durable, lightweight, and easy to transport. The growing consumption of ready-to-eat and on-the-go food and beverages, such as canned soft drinks, soups, and ready meals, fuels the demand for metal packaging. Convenience in packaging is not only a matter of portability but also of product preservation. Metal containers provide an excellent barrier to light, oxygen, and moisture, which extends shelf life and ensures product quality. For instance, energy drinks and alcoholic beverages are commonly packaged in metal cans due to these protective qualities, maintaining product freshness and taste for longer periods.
The growth of the food & beverage industry also plays a crucial role in driving the demand for metal packaging. Canned goods have been a staple in global food markets for decades, and this trend is continuing to rise, especially in developing regions. For example, canned vegetables, fruits, and seafood are gaining popularity in regions where refrigeration and other preservation techniques may not be as widespread. In addition, the premiumization trend in food packaging is seeing a rise in high-quality metal containers for upscale products. A good example is the increasing use of tinplate for packaging gourmet foods, where the packaging itself can be as valuable as the product inside.
Technological advancements in metal packaging design and manufacturing are also contributing to market growth. Companies are investing in more efficient production processes and innovative designs, such as lightweight cans and easy-open ends, to improve convenience for consumers and reduce production costs. These innovations not only enhance the usability of metal packaging but also help companies reduce their carbon footprint. Moreover, decorative finishes and embossing in metal packaging have become more popular, particularly in the beverage sector, where packaging serves as a powerful marketing tool.
Based on material, the aluminum material segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 66.18% in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period. Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal widely used in packaging, especially for food and beverage products. Aluminum packaging comes in various forms, including cans, bottles, foil, and trays. It offers superior protection against light, moisture, and air, making it ideal for preserving the shelf life and freshness of products. The flexibility of aluminum allows it to be molded into various shapes, enhancing the appeal of packaged goods. It's also easily recyclable, which contributes to its increasing popularity in the packaging industry.
Steel packaging is strong, durable, and widely used for packaging products that require high levels of protection, such as in food, beverage, and chemical industries. Steel containers, including cans and drums, provide an excellent barrier to oxygen and light, ensuring the integrity and longevity of the contents. Steel is also known for its ability to withstand high-pressure environments, making it suitable for carbonated beverages and pressurized aerosols. In addition, steel packaging has a high level of security, making it an ideal choice for hazardous materials.
The cans segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 50.19% in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. Cans are one of the most widely used forms of metal packaging, typically used for beverages, food, and chemicals. The rising demand for canned beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages is also pushing growth in this segment.
Caps and closures are essential components of metal packaging, designed to seal and protect the contents of containers such as bottles, jars, and cans. They come in various types, including screw caps, flip-top caps, and crown caps, and are used in industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and chemicals. Metal closures, often made from aluminum or steel, ensure product safety, freshness, and tamper-evidence.
Barrels and drums are large containers used for storing and transporting bulk goods, particularly liquids and chemicals. Made of metal, typically steel, they offer a durable and secure packaging solution for hazardous materials, oils, industrial chemicals, and other bulk goods. Barrels and drums are popular for their ability to withstand heavy handling, extreme weather conditions, and long-term storage.
Based on end use, the food and beverages segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 57.36% in 2024 and is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. Metal packaging is widely used for packaging items such as canned food, beverages, dairy products, sauces, and ready-to-eat meals. The growing demand for convenience foods, along with an increasing emphasis on food safety and extended shelf life, drives the market growth in this sector.
Metal packaging plays an essential role in the storage and transportation of paints, varnishes, and other related products. This packaging is highly effective in protecting the contents from external environmental factors such as moisture, light, and air, ensuring the integrity of paints and varnishes. The increasing demand for high-quality paints and varnishes, particularly in the construction and automotive sectors, is boosting the demand for metal packaging in this segment.
The personal care and cosmetics segment relies on metal packaging for various products such as deodorants, hairsprays, perfumes, and shaving creams. Metal containers offer an airtight seal, preventing the degradation of products and maintaining their fragrance, consistency, and effectiveness. The increasing demand for premium personal care and cosmetic products is fueling the growth of metal packaging in this industry.
The metal packaging market in North America is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The robust food and beverage industry in North America particularly propels metal packaging demand across the region. Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola and Anheuser-Busch InBev drive significant volumes of aluminum can consumption, while canned food brands such as Campbell's and Del Monte maintain steady demand for steel packaging. The craft beer boom has further accelerated aluminum can usage, with over 2,000 craft breweries in the U.S. alone switching from glass bottles to cans for advantages in shipping, storage, and brand differentiation through innovative designs.
The metal packaging market in the U.S. is primarily driven by the expanding food & beverage sector and increasing sustainability approach. The regulatory environment in the U.S. has also been favorable for metal packaging growth. The FDA's approval of various metal packaging technologies, coupled with increasing restrictions on certain plastics, has created market opportunities. In addition, the U.S. has seen significant investment in metal packaging innovation, with developments in lightweight materials, smart packaging technologies, and improved coating systems.
Asia Pacific dominated the metal packaging market with the largest revenue share of 35.63% in 2024. The region is dominating the region segment of the metal packaging industry due to several interconnecting factors. Rapid urbanization and industrialization are creating a growing middle class with increased disposable income, particularly in countries such as China, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia. This demographic shift is boosting demand for convenient, portable, and premium packaged products that metal packaging can deliver. In addition, the massive food and beverage industry expansion in the region, responding to changing consumer lifestyles, has created significant opportunities for metal packaging solutions, especially for beverages, canned foods, and ready-to-eat meals.
The metal packaging market in China is primarily driven by its massive manufacturing base, combined with its large and growing consumer population, which has created unprecedented demand for metal packaging solutions across multiple industries. Besides, major Chinese brands such as Wahaha and Master Kong have adopted metal packaging for their ready-to-drink teas and soft drinks, driving further market expansion in the country. The popularity of premium packaged goods among China's growing middle class has also accelerated this trend, as metal packaging conveys quality and safety to status-conscious consumers.
The metal packaging market in Europe is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. European Green Deal and initiatives such as the Circular Economy Action Plan have pushed manufacturers to adopt more sustainable packaging solutions, with metal packaging being highly recyclable, with recycling rates over 80% for aluminum and steel. Countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands have implemented stringent waste management regulations that favor metal packaging due to its infinite recyclability without quality loss.
The Germany metal packaging market is primarily driven by its expanding beverage industry. Germany's well-established beer industry, with over 1,500 breweries and annual per capita beer consumption of roughly 100 liters, relies heavily on metal cans for packaging and distribution. The German preference for carbonated beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, naturally aligns with metal packaging that maintains product freshness and carbonation integrity. In addition, the country's growing craft beer segment is increasingly adopting metal cans due to their superior protection against light and oxygen, helping preserve the distinct flavors and characteristics of specialty beers.
The competitive environment of the metal packaging industry is characterized by a mix of established global players and regional manufacturers, all striving for market share through innovation, cost efficiency, and sustainability efforts. Major companies dominate key sectors such as beverage, food, and aerosol packaging, leveraging economies of scale and extensive distribution networks. Competition is also fueled by the increasing demand for environmentally friendly solutions, prompting companies to invest in lightweight, recyclable, and eco-friendly materials.
The market sees intense rivalry in terms of technological advancements in production processes, product design, and branding, alongside shifting regulatory pressures related to sustainability and recycling practices. Smaller regional players also play a crucial role, often differentiating themselves through specialized products and localized manufacturing.
The following are the leading companies in the metal packaging market. These companies collectively hold the largest market share and dictate industry trends.
In June 2024, Sonoco Products Company, a sustainable packaging solutions provider, finalized its acquisition of Eviosys, a European metal packaging company, for approximately USD 3.9 billion. The acquisition integrates Eviosys into Sonoco’s Consumer Packaging segment.
In January 2024, Novelis Inc. signed a significant agreement with Ardagh Metal Packaging USA Corp. to supply aluminum beverage packaging sheets to Ardagh's production facilities in North America. This contract marks Novelis' third major deal in the beverage packaging sector within seven months, highlighting the robust demand for sustainable packaging solutions driven by consumer preferences for recyclable materials.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Market size value in 2025 |
USD 153.24 billion |
Revenue forecast in 2030 |
USD 184.21 billion |
Growth rate |
CAGR of 3.7% from 2025 to 2030 |
Base year for estimation |
2024 |
Historical data |
2018 - 2023 |
Forecast period |
2025 - 2030 |
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD million/billion, and CAGR from 2025 to 2030 |
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
Segments covered |
Product type, material, end-use, region |
States scope |
North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Central & South America; Middle East & Africa |
Key companies profiled |
Ball Corporation; Crown Holdings, Inc.; Silgan Holdings; Amcor plc; Ardagh Group SA; Grief; CANPACK; CCL Containers; Sonoco Products Company; Mauser Packaging Solutions; DS Containers; Hindustan Tin Works Ltd; Trivium Packaging |
Customization scope |
Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analyst’s working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional, and segment scope. |
Pricing and purchase options |
Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
This report forecasts revenue growth at a global level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global metal packaging market report based on material, product type, end-use, and region:
Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Aluminum
Steel
Product Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Cans
Caps & Closures
Barrels & Drums
Others
End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Food & Beverages
Paints & Varnishes
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals
Others
Region Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
Australia
South Korea
Southeast Asia
Central & South America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
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