The global sales of cork packaging are estimated to be worth USD 1.6 billion in 2024 and are anticipated to reach a value of USD 2.7 billion by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 5.6% over the forecast period between 2024 and 2034. The revenue generated by cork packaging in 2023 was USD 1.5 billion. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 5.7% in 2024.
Natural cork is the most used material in the cork packaging industry, especially for premium applications including wine stoppers and high-end packaging. Natural cork is highly used in high-quality wine closures and other luxurious packaging applications. The cork packaging is essential in preserving the quality of the alcoholic products.
Brands are also using natural cork to improve the sustainability quotient and aesthetic image. Natural cork is estimated to reach 55% of the market share by the end of the forecast period.
Global Cork Packaging Industry Assessment
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Historical Size, 2023 | USD 1.5 billion |
| Estimated Size, 2024 | USD 1.6 billion |
| Projected Size, 2034 | USD 2.7 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 5.6% |
Cork stoppers are most prominently used in the packaging industry driven by their significant contribution to the wine industry. Their properties of cork stoppers are ideally suitable for sealing wine bottles. Cork stoppers provide the airtight seal along with permitting a little bit of oxygen contact with the wine.
This process is essential for fine wine manufacturing and thus it is mostly used in the wine packaging industry. For instance, a manufacturing company, HELIX, has introduced a unique cork-glass packaging innovation for the still wine application.
The product combines the sustainable effects of cork and glass for a premium image and presents it with a resealable and user-friendly approach. Cork stoppers are predicted to grow at 4.9% during assessment period.
The beverage industry is the leading user of cork packaging, especially for wine, and spirits packaging. Cork packaging is significantly used in champagne, spirits, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. The sustainability factor, excellent sealing, and preservation properties of cork packaging are making beverages a leading application of cork packaging.
Cork is being used for making wine bottle packaging, for instance, a Portuguese advertising and design agency, Omdesign, has introduced a limited-edition Port wine packaging, with a cardboard sleeve and two cork squares inside, for the century-old Port winery Ramos Pinto. This cork packaging is also being used for other daily use purposes making cork packaging a versatile option.
The cork packaging industry is set to experience moderate growth during the forecast period. It is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 1.2 billion and is predicted to rise 1.7 times the current market value through 2034.
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The above table presents the expected CAGR for the global cork packaging market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034. In the first half (H1) of the year from 2023 to 2033, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 5.4%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 5.8% in the second half (H2) of the same year.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 5.4% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 5.8% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 5.6% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 5.9% (2024 to 2034) |
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to lower slightly to 5.6% in the first half and remain relatively high at 5.9% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed a slight increase of 20 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of nearly 10 BPS.
Superior Properties like Insulation, Cushioning, and Sealing
Cork has functional attributes including airtight sealing, insulation, and cushioning properties. Cork has little cells that are filled with air which provides elasticity and impermeability. The air-tight sealing of cork is essential for maintaining the quality of products. Cork can protect the packaged products from external contamination including oxygen, moisture, and other factors.
Cork packaging is also sustainable, recyclable, and reusable which makes it the most attractive in the future perspective. The packaging made from cork provides impermeability, resistance, and rigidity, which makes it the ideal packaging material. Cork has 60 million air-filled cells which make microscopic bubble wrap and natural material for packaging purpose.
The insulating and cushioning properties of cork help in protecting the package contents. The attributes like impermeability and elasticity protect the products packed and enhance the product quality. The property of micro-oxygenation provided by cork packaging is superior quality used for wine packaging. The extravagant properties of cork are pushing its application in the packaging industry.
Reduced Carbon Footprint and Less Environmental Impact
Cork is contributing to an ecologically sustainable packaging material because of biodegradability. The material is extracted from oak trees which can be regenerated naturally consequently resulting in zero environmental footprint. It is because of the process of cork harvesting that cork oak regenerates the bark using carbon dioxide and photosynthesis from the air.
This consequently mitigates greenhouse gasses and combats climate change. Cork packaging has a negative carbon balance because of the cyclic harvesting of cork and the production of cork products. They emit less carbon dioxide and retain more amount of it which directly helps to calm down the global warming effects and maintains the ecosystem stability.
Cork packaging is recently gaining the needed attention from the industry and its full potential has still not been fully exploited. The investment in research and development will further push its potential and make it more versatile across industries. The material is helping in fighting climate change as it is a carbon-neutral material. Thus cork packaging can substantially reduce carbon footprint and lessen the environmental impact.
Challenges in Cork Recycling Hamper the Market
Cork is a recyclable material but still, the market may be hampered because of not having well established recycling infrastructure in many regions. Consequently, the material cannot be reused and is lying discarded in the environment generating waste in landfills and water resources. The cork packaging industry needs to invest in recycling solutions and increasing the reusability of the cork.
Principal Consultant
The global cork packaging industry recorded a CAGR of 3.7% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. The growth of the cork packaging industry was positive as it reached a value of USD 1.5 billion in 2023 from USD 1.3 million in 2019.
Cork packaging is gaining attention and rising attractiveness because of its biodegradability, and renewability. It does not harm and pollute the environment like other materials such as plastic. Cork oak which is present in the forest helps absorb the carbon dioxide and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. It helps in creating a positive effect on global climate change and global warming issues.
The adoption of cork packaging helps in a high sustainable environment and circular economy goals. Cork packaging is showcasing the unique diversity in designs like artistically painted patterns and minimalist designs. Companies and brands are starting to adopt cork packaging by realizing that cork is an ideal packaging material for conveying a sustainable brand image and product security.
Cork packaging has now highlighted the personality and commitment of the brand using technology like fine carving and vibrant colors. The increasing demand for customization from consumers is pushing companies to introduce different customized cork packaging services.
By fine engraving of company logo, name, and any other fine detailing according to the demand, cork packaging can meet these customized demands and provide a unique value to each packaging. Cork has become popular in the last decade and companies are investing in innovative ways to use cork in packaging.
Cork is a reusable, recyclable, and natural product that will create differentiation on the shelf from competitors. Cork is being used for stoppers for wine bottles, bottle packaging, food packaging, cosmetics, and many more. In the current scenario, environmentally friendly packaging solutions become an attentive option, which makes it the perfect option.
Cork packaging which is a completely natural material, also conveys a powerful message to the consumers.
Tier 1 companies in the global cork packaging industry include Jelinek Cork Group, WidgetCo, Bangor Cork, Sugherificio Martinese & Figli Srl, M. A. Silva, Diam Bouchage Sas, Amorim Cork America, J. C. Ribeiro, with market revenue above USD 50 million.
These manufacturers are market leaders in cork packaging within the global industry having extensive production capacity, different product offerings, and extensive manufacturing expertise. These companies are capturing around 10% to 20% of the global market share in the cork packaging industry.
Tier 2 of the global cork packaging industry incorporates companies like Korkindustrie GmbH & Co. KG, Advance Cork International, Portocork America, Lafitte Cork Group, Cutting Edge Converted Products, Berlin Packaging, Pace Products LLC, HELIX, with revenue of USD 5 to 50 million.
They have limited presence, and well-maintained knowledge but may not have expertise and advanced manufacturing technology. These manufacturers have mostly limited regional presence having knowledge and demand of regional market dynamics.
Tier 3 category in the global cork packaging market includes the small-scale players of the region with revenue below USD 5 million. These companies fulfil the local market demand and are recognized as an unorganized market. They have a country-level presence, limited manufacturing facilities, and expertise in local market needs. They are well established in the local market and fulfil the local market demands.
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The section below covers the industry analysis of the cork packaging market for different countries. Market demand analysis on key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and others, is provided.
| Countries | Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) |
|---|---|
| USA | 2.8% |
| Germany | 2.5% |
| UK | 2.0% |
| Canada | 4.2% |
| India | 4.4% |
| China | 4.0% |
| Japan | 3.1% |
| GCC Countries | 3.6% |
The USA is anticipated to hold 77% of the value share in North America in 2024 expanding at a 2.8% growth rate till the year 2034. According to the American Beverage Association, American beverage companies are working together to make 100% recycled beverage packaging and by taking initiatives including The Recycling Partnership, Closed Loop Partners and World Wildlife Fund.
American beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Keurig Dr Pepper are working hard to ensure that every beverage bottle including a cap is 100% recycled and is remade into new bottles.
USA consumers are concerned about sustainability and are willing to pay more for beverages from socially responsible companies. The consumer’s preference has shifted toward healthier, clean-label beverages, naturally sweeter, and beverages with immunity-boosting ingredients.
The convergence of the consumer for convenience, on-the-go drink solutions, low-sugar drink options, and better-for-you ingredients options in the beverages will bolster the demand for non-alcoholic healthy drinks in the USA The surging demand for sustainable packaging solutions is escalating the growth of bio-based alternatives like cork packaging and reducing the consumption of petroleum-based products in the country.
The non-alcoholic beverages market in Japan is anticipated to be worth USD 40 billion in 2023 with around USD 1 billion coming from imports as stated by the USA. Foreign Agricultural Service. The overall demand from the beverage industry including soft drinks, juices, water, and others is majorly packed and is anticipated to boost the sales in Japan.
Many companies in Japan increased their production with the growing demand for soft drinks which further is expected to fuel the demand for beverage packaging including cork packaging. Cork packaging can be a sustainable and alternative for plastic packaging which can boost the market growth in Japan.
According to the USA. FAS in 2022, the production values of soft drinks, juices, and water was around USD 32.76 billion for alcoholic beverages it was USD 26.34 billion and for tea, coffee, & cocoa it was around USD 7.12 billion. This huge production of beverages in Japan contributes to the market growth in future.
The sales of nonalcoholic beverages also indicate a huge opportunity for expansion for manufacturer using cork packaging in beverage industry. The cork packaging industry in Japan is predicted to reach 22.5% by the end of 2034 with a growth CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period.
The section contains information about the leading segment in the cork packaging market.
| Material | Agglomerated Cork |
|---|---|
| CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 35% |
Agglomerated cork is expected to spur the market of cork packaging in future. The same is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period and is expected to generate a prominent incremental opportunity by the end of 2034.
Agglomerated cork sales are being pushed by its application in the food and beverage and industrial packaging industry. These corks are made from binding small cork granules along with synthetic adhesives which makes them inexpensive and also maintains the natural qualities.
The production process of agglomerated cork makes it suitable for different shapes and densities across industries meeting all the applications. Agglomerated cork is used in the construction industry for thermal as well as acoustic insulation and in food and beverage, it’s used for protective purposes. The sales of agglomerated cork packaging are anticipated to grow in the upcoming period.
| End Use | Cork Closures |
|---|---|
| CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 45% |
Cork closures are expected to spur the market of cork packaging in future. The same is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period and is expected to generate a prominent market share by the end of 2034.
Cork closures are known for their secured sealing ability. This makes it a crucial packaging for the preservation of product quality and flavour of beverages. The cork closures have natural elasticity that gives an airtight seal to prevent external contaminations. Cork closures also ensure micro-oxygenation which is beneficial for specific products.
Cork closures are currently the most favoured in the beverage industry and are anticipated to further grow in other industries like beauty and cosmetics where it has become necessary to replace plastic with such sustainable products.
Several prominent players in the cork packaging market are significantly investing in innovation, research, and development to discover new applications and enhance their offerings. Manufacturers prioritize safety, product quality, and customer satisfaction to expand their customer base.
Key manufacturers of cork packaging are focusing on developing innovative designs and developing packaging solutions to meet sustainability demand. They are adopting a merger & acquisition strategy to expand their resources and are developing new products to meet customer needs.
Startups in the cork packaging market are focused on producing customized solutions for specific applications and meeting industry demands. They are providing modified designs by using advanced and eco-friendly materials and manufacturing technologies. They are also focusing on niche industries and applications for expansion and growth.
Many companies are coming up with innovative ideas for using cork packaging. A French company, Château Margaux uses cork stoppers for fine wines. A British company for Natural Foods Company also launched cork jars made from biodegradable cork which also received its first carbon-neutral certification for its carbon-positive packaging.
A local brand from China Fengpeng daily has started a household cork series which has received a great response from customers. Principle Beauty which is an American brand for sustainable products has made an eye makeup palette with cork as the outer packaging which is 100% biodegradable. This showcases the potential of cork packaging in the global industry for future growth.
Recent Industry Developments in Cork Packaging Market
Cork packaging industry is segregated into natural cork, agglomerated cork, and composite.
Cork packaging industry is segregated into cork stoppers, cork sheets & rolls, cork pouches & bags, cork closures, and others.
The industry is classified by food, beverages, cosmetics & personal care, and others industrial.
Key countries of North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, and Middle East and Africa (MEA), have been covered in the report.
The industry is valued at USD 10,742.8 million in 2023.
The market is segmented by design type, operating system, and end-user industry.
The manufacturing industry is the key consumer of the market.
The industry is estimated to reach USD 20,039.4 million by 2033.
The computer aided design market CAGR for 2033 is 6.4%.
1. Executive Summary 2. Industry Introduction 3. Market Trends and Success Factors 4. Market Background 5. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034 5.1. Historical Market Volume Analysis 5.2. Future Market Volume Projections 6. Pricing Analysis 7. Global Market Value (USD) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034 7.1. Historical Sales Analysis 7.2. Future Market Size and Growth Projections 8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product Type 8.1. Natural Cork 8.2. Agglomerated Cork 8.3. Composite 9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Application 9.1. Cork Stoppers 9.2. Cork Sheets & Rolls 9.3. Cork Pouches & Bags 9.4. Cork Closures 9.5. Others 10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End-Use 10.1. Food 10.2. Beverages 10.3. Cosmetics & Personal Care 10.4. Other Industrial 11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Region 11.1. North America 11.2. Latin America 11.3. East Asia 11.4. South Asia & Pacific 11.5. Western Europe 11.6. Eastern Europe 11.7. Middle East & Africa 12. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 13. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 14. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 15. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 16. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 17. South Asia & Pacific Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 18. Middle East and Africa (MEA) Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country 19. Sales Analysis 2024 & 2034 by Key Market Segments for 30 Countries 20. Competition Outlook including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard 21. Company Profile 21.1. JELINEK CORK GROUP 21.2. WidgetCo 21.3. Bangor Cork 21.4. Sugherificio Martinese & Figli Srl 21.5. M. A. Silva 21.6. DIAM BOUCHAGE SAS 21.7. Amorim Cork America 21.8. J. C. RIBEIRO 21.9. Korkindustrie GmbH & Co. KG 21.10. Advance Cork International 21.11. PORTOCORK AMERICA 21.12. Lafitte Cork Group 21.13. Cutting Edge Converted Products 21.14. Berlin Packaging 21.15. Pace Products LLC 21.16. HELIX 21.17. Fudy Solutions Inc 21.18. HZ cork 21.19. Teals Prairie and Co. 21.20. GAP Packaging 21.21. Hauser Packaging
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