Food Containers Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Flexible Packaging, Paperboard, Rigid Packaging, Metal, Glass), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Food Containers Market Size & Trends

The global food containers market size was valued at USD 331.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2030.  This growth is driven by the increasing demand for packaged and processed food products, as consumers seek convenient and long-lasting food options. The growing preference for on-the-go and ready-to-eat meals also contributes to the market growth. Additionally, rising disposable incomes and the expansion of the food service industry play crucial roles. Innovations in eco-friendly and reusable containers are shaping market trends, as consumers become more environmentally conscious.

The rise of online grocery shopping and food delivery services has indeed heightened the demand for effective packaging solutions that ensure food quality during transit, further fueling the market expansion. The shift in consumer behavior towards online platforms has necessitated robust and reliable packaging that can withstand various transit conditions. Additionally, a surge in urban populations and the rise of single-person households are creating a higher demand for food containers, as these demographics often prefer convenient and ready-to-use packaging solutions. These trends underscore the increasing need for innovative, durable, and eco-friendly food containers, driving the market forward.

Product Insights

The flexible packaging segment accounted for the largest share of 43.1% in 2024 due to the versatility, lightweight nature, and convenience of flexible packaging solutions. Materials such as plastic films, aluminum foil, and paper are commonly used in this segment to create pouches, bags, and wraps that can be easily molded to fit various food products. The demand for flexible packaging is bolstered by the growing preference for single-serve and on-the-go food options, which cater to the busy lifestyles of urban consumers. Additionally, the flexible packaging segment is favored for its cost-effectiveness and lower environmental impact compared to rigid packaging, making it an attractive option for both manufacturers and consumers.

The rigid packaging segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2025 to 2030, driven by the increasing demand for durable and protective packaging solutions that ensure the integrity and safety of food products during transportation and storage. Rigid packaging materials, such as plastic containers, metal cans, and glass jars, offer superior protection against physical damage and contamination, making them ideal for packaging perishable and sensitive food items. The segment's expansion is also supported by the rising consumer awareness of food safety and hygiene, as well as the growing trend of premium and luxury food products that require high-quality packaging. Moreover, innovations in sustainable and recyclable rigid packaging materials are further propelling the segment's growth, aligning with the global emphasis on reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability.

Application Insights

The meat processed goods segment dominated the global food containers market in 2024, owing to the high consumption of processed meat products like sausages, bacon, and deli meats. These products require robust packaging solutions to ensure their freshness, prevent contamination, and extend shelf life. The demand for convenient and ready-to-cook meat products has been on the rise, driven by changing lifestyles and increasing disposable incomes. Food containers for processed meat are designed to provide excellent barrier properties against oxygen and moisture, thereby maintaining the quality and safety of the products. Additionally, the trend towards eco-friendly packaging has seen innovations in sustainable materials being used for meat packaging, further boosting this segment's market share.

The dairy goods segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% over the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rising demand for dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter, which require specialized packaging to maintain their quality and nutritional value. The dairy industry benefits from advancements in packaging technologies that ensure product safety and extend shelf life. Innovations such as aseptic packaging, which allows dairy products to be stored without refrigeration, are gaining popularity. The increasing consumer preference for organic and fresh dairy products further drives the demand for effective and sustainable packaging solutions in this segment. Additionally, the focus on reducing food waste and improving supply chain efficiency is expected to propel the growth of the dairy goods segment in the global food containers market.

Regional Insights

North America accounted for 18.8% revenue share of the global food containers market in 2024. The region's market is driven by the high consumption of packaged and processed foods, stemming from the busy lifestyles of consumers. Technological advancements in packaging and a strong emphasis on food safety and sustainability further boost the market. The presence of major food and beverage manufacturers and a well-established retail sector also contribute to the market's growth.

U.S. Food Containers Market Trends

The U.S. dominated the North American food container market in 2024, driven by the increasing demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food products. The rise of online grocery shopping and food delivery services in the U.S. has heightened the need for effective packaging solutions. Innovations in sustainable and recyclable packaging materials are also driving market growth, as consumers and companies become more environmentally conscious.

Europe Food Containers Market Trends

Europe's food containers market is anticipated to grow steadily throughout the forecast period. The market is driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions and the stringent regulations governing food safety and packaging standards. European consumers' preference for high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions fuels the market. Additionally, the expansion of the food and beverage industry and the rise of e-commerce in Europe contribute to the steady growth of the food container market in the region.

Asia Pacific Food Containers Market Trends

The Asia Pacific dominated the global food containers market in 2024, primarily due to the region's large population and growing middle class. The increasing demand for packaged and producted foods, driven by urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles, supports market growth. The expansion of the retail sector and the rise of online food delivery services further fuel the demand for food containers. Moreover, the focus on improving food safety and reducing food waste in countries like China and India propels the market in the Asia Pacific region.

Key Food Containers Company Insights

Some of the key companies in the food containers market include Amcor plc, Silgan Holdings, Inc., Ardagh Group, Berry Plastics Corp., Plastipak Holdings, Inc., and others.

• Ardagh Group is a leading manufacturer of metal and glass food containers, with operations in 16 countries. The company's extensive range of packaging solutions includes beverage cans, food cans, and glass jars, catering to various food and beverage segments.

• Berry Plastics Corp. is a major player in the global food container market, offering a diverse range of plastic packaging solutions. The company's products include bottles, jars, containers, and closures, which are used for packaging food, beverages, and household products. Berry Plastics' acquisition of RPC Group plc has expanded its product range and distribution network, allowing it to serve a broader customer base.

Recent Developments

• In June 2024, Sonoco Products Company formally disclosed its acquisition of Eviosys, a leading global provider of innovative and sustainable metal packaging solutions catering to the food, consumer goods, and promotional sectors, from KPS Capital Partners for an approximate value of USD 3.9 billion. This strategic move accelerates Sonoco's initiative to concentrate on and expand its core business segments while pursuing high-yield investment opportunities, both organically and through mergers and acquisitions.

• In October 2024, Tupperware Brands Corporation reached a preliminary agreement with a consortium of secured lenders, notably including Stonehill Capital Management Partners and Alden Global Capital. The plan is to restructure the company into The New Tupperware Company, adopting a start-up mentality. This approach will leverage an agile methodology, facilitating iterative development through dynamic phases to enhance operational flexibility and responsiveness.

Food Containers Market Report Scope

Global Food Containers Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels 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 food containers market report based on product, application, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Flexible Packaging

  • Paperboard

  • Rigid Packaging

  • Metal

  • Glass

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Grain Mill Products

  • Dairy Goods

  • Fruits & Vegetables

  • Bakery Products

  • Meat processed goods

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)