Glass Container Market

Glass Container Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The global glass container market size is estimated to be around USD 63.8 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 89.3 billion by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 3.4% over the forecast period. Sales generated by glass containers in 2023 were of a valuation of USD 61.3 billion. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 4.2% in 2024.

Containers made of glass are set to be extensively used in the beverage packaging industry, capturing almost 1/3rd of the share by 2034. This growth is attributed to several unique properties, such as impermeability, recyclability, and the ability to maintain the integrity of products. Containers made of type 1 borosilicate glass are set to hold more than 1/3rd of the share in the assessment period. Demand for borosilicate glass is projected to rise due to high thermal resistance, chemical inertness, and durability.

Containers with a capacity of 51 to 250 ml are anticipated to reach a valuation of USD 27.6 billion by 2034. Surging demand for single-serving beverages and on-the-go consumption patterns are boosting growth of the target segment. The glass container industry is set to create an incremental opportunity of USD 25.5 billion and is predicted to rise 1.4 times the current value through 2034.

Increasing government initiatives to ban single-use plastic in different parts of the globe are anticipated to augment demand. In April 2024, for instance, the European Union announced a unique approach to handling plastic with improved product design and a ban on specific products. The plan is to eliminate toxic substances required for the production of plastics in the initial phase.

In May 2024, on the other hand, Hong Kong-based eco-friendly packaging providers declared that sales have gone higher than in the previous few years. Growth is attributed to the recent ban on disposable plastic takeaway containers by the government. Such an innovative step has compelled food and beverage companies in Hong Kong to provide environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Sustainable Planet, a prominent packaging brand offering a wide range of products to hotels and restaurants, witnessed around 20 to 25% surge in new clients in the first quarter of 2024 compared to that of 2023. Food and beverage companies have started inquiring about eco-friendly packaging options to comply with government norms. Several food manufacturers are estimated to discard plastic containers and move to glass-based products to maintain sustainability.

Attributes	Description
Estimated Global Glass Container Market Size (2024E)	USD 63.8 billion
Projected Global Glass Container Market Value (2034F)	USD 89.3 billion
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034)	3.4%

Key Industry Highlights

Growing Need for Customization and Transparency to be a Key Trend

Demand for glass is rapidly rising in the packaging industry. Growth is attributed to rising demand for customized packaging that can be made into different shapes and sizes by heating according to the requirements of end-users. Hence, companies are using the material to differentiate various products from competitors by creating a wide range of containers in multiple shapes, sizes, and colors.

Due to its high durability properties, food and beverage manufacturers are using customized glass packaging solutions for the packaging of products like fruit juices, jams, edible oils, and dairy products. According to a report published by the European Container Glass Federation, the glass container industry has contributed significantly to Europe’s economy. The sector also employs nearly 1,25,000 individuals along the entire supply chain.

Food and beverage manufacturers have also increased the adoption of glass packaging solutions to provide transparency in packaged food items. High demand for glass-based containers to preserve food items such as pickles, sauces, and condiments to enhance the quality further fuels growth of glass container market.

Increasing Demand for Secured Packaging in Pharmaceutical Industry Pushes Sales

Sturdy pharmaceutical product packaging is essential for the safety and protection of products from external conditions, such as moisture, light, oxygen, and contamination. The ability of these containers to provide excellent protective packaging for pharmaceutical products is set to boost worldwide demand for glass containers. The quality and purity of pharmaceutical products must be up to the mark at all times.

The containers can be designed with unique printing techniques to showcase originality. Consequently, these can help upgrade security and prevent counterfeit pharmaceutical products. Based on a report of the All India Glass Manufacturers’ Federation, SCHOTT AG started a manufacturing hub in Gujarat, India, for manufacturing high-quality borosilicate glass tubing. The hub will be used in making pharmaceutical ampoules, vials, and syringes for storing lifesaving drugs.

Escalating demand for secure, hygienic, and effective packaging solutions for medicines and drugs is uplifting the need for glass containers. These containers are set to be widely used in the making of pharma-grade glass vials and ampoules.

High Energy Consumption to Hamper Demand

As glass is heavier than plastic, the transportation cost becomes higher from the manufacturers. Since glass-based packaging solutions require robust transportation services along the supply chain, the cost becomes high. Apart from that, the manufacturing of glass packaging requires high energy, which is often a drawback for certain companies that focus on lowering energy use.

2019 to 2023 Global Glass Container Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2024 to 2034

The global market recorded a CAGR of 2.6% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. Market growth of glass containers was positive and reached a value of USD 61.3 billion in 2023 from USD 51.1 billion in 2019.

The industry was pushed by increasing bottled beverage consumption across the globe. Glass containers have proven to be convenient in terms of storage, ultimately maintaining the originality of the product. Unique embossing and digital watermark technologies on bottled beverages also played a significant role in establishing brand loyalty among customers.

Awareness regarding health and safety made consumers conscious of the harmful effects of plastic bottles. Hence, a shift toward glass bottles over other types of containers can be observed. Ampoules and vials made from glass became essential in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Increasing applications of glass-based containers among healthcare companies fostered the industry.

Use of borosilicate glass is projected to rise amid high resistance to temperature and chemicals. The material accounted for a total share of 34.3% in 2023. Borosilicate glass set to be used in pharmaceutical packaging, manufacturing of kitchen wares, and other industrial purposes. On the other hand, treated soda lime glass is anticipated to find several applications at the commercial level. The product is projected to be one of the most commonly utilized materials for the production of bottles due to its low light transmission property.

Food and beverage manufacturers have increased the adoption of glass-based containers to provide transparency in packaging food items. Growing demand for several designs and rising customization trends are also projected to create opportunities in glass container market.

Country-wise Insights

The section below covers the forecast for glass container market in terms of countries. Information on key countries in several parts of the globe, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and others, is provided. Canada is anticipated to remain at the forefront in North America, with a CAGR of 2.9% through 2034. In South Asia and Pacific, India is projected to witness a CAGR of 4.9% by 2034, leaving behind China at 4.4%.

Countries	CAGR, 2024 to 2034
United States	2.5%
Canada	2.9%
Germany	3.9%
United Kingdom	3.1%
China	4.4%
India	4.9%

Rising Healthcare Expenditure in India Pushes Demand

The glass container industry in India is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 3.9 billion over the forecast period. The country is estimated to hold almost half the value share of the South Asia and Pacific region by 2034.

The India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) mentioned that the country’s pharmaceutical industry is set to attain a value of around USD 65 billion by 2024. The sector is anticipated to reach USD 130 billion by 2030.

Growing demand for pharmaceutical packaging solutions in the country is projected to increase the adoption of glass containers. Rising disposable income and high healthcare expenditures in India are also contributing to growth.

Rising Food Manufacturing Activities in South Africa to Fuel Sales

South Africa’s food and beverage manufacturing sector offers a lot of opportunities for the market. The country is anticipated to hold a value share of 26.7% in 2034 and record a CAGR of 3.8% during the evaluation period.

According to the FoodBev Manufacturing SETA, the food and beverage manufacturing industry is a key sector for the South African economy. The sector is making a significant contribution to government tax revenues and export earnings for the country.

Food and non-alcoholic beverages in South Africa registered a Y-o-Y increase of 6.2% in 2022. The continued growth of food and beverage industry in the country is set to boost glass container demand.

Germany-based Beer Packaging Companies Look for Glass Containers

Germany is projected to showcase a CAGR of 3.9% in the forecast period. Growing premiumization trend in the country is projected to play a significant role in pushing demand for glass-based containers. Soft drink manufacturers in the country are moving toward glass packaging solutions to attract youngsters and retain the flavor of the drinks.

Increasing popularity of beer in Germany is also anticipated to accelerate growth. The need for beers from the premium category is compelling manufacturers to use glass packaging solutions. Emergence of sustainable glass-based containers and growlers across microbreweries and taprooms is another key factor pushing demand.

Category-wise Insights

The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. In terms of product type, the glass bottles segment is estimated to account for a share of 31.5% by 2034. By end-use, the beverage packaging category is projected to dominate by holding a share of 32.6% in 2034.

Glass Bottles to Find Extensive Use in Healthcare and Beverage Sectors

Segment	Glass Bottles (Product Type)
Value Share (2034)	31.5%

Glass bottles are projected to lead the global industry during the forecast period. These are anticipated to rise at a CAGR of 3.2%, generating an incremental growth opportunity worth USD 7.6 billion by 2034.

Glass bottles are set to be predominantly used owing to excellent durability. These provide a barrier to moisture and other contaminants, which helps to preserve the freshness, flavor, and quality of packaged products. Increasing consumption of beverages such as soda, soft drinks, alcohol, and carbonated drinks is contributing to the segment’s growth.

End-use industries, including pharmaceuticals and beverages, prefer using glass bottles for packaging. High demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective packaging solutions is also estimated to fuel growth.

Glass jars, on the other hand, are highly sustainable and recyclable. Companies are looking for novel jars that can be adapted in various shapes and sizes to meet specific packaging requirements. The target segment is anticipated to rise at a CAGR of 3.4% during the forecast period.

Glass-based Beverage Packaging Solutions to Gain Impetus

Segment	Beverage Packaging (End Use)
Value Share (2034)	32.6%

The beverage packaging segment is estimated to lead the glass container industry. The segment is anticipated to hold around 3% CAGR value share in 2034.

The increasing popularity of fruit juices, ready-to-drink beverages, carbonated drinks, and alcoholic beverages is contributing to the high demand for glass containers. Growing demand for sustainable and premium packaging is further increasing the adoption of glass-based containers.

Glass packaging solutions being transparent have gained traction worldwide. These can retain product freshness and safety, which aligns with consumer interests. Rising inclination toward healthy beverages is further fueling the segment.

Competition Outlook

Key manufacturers of glass bottle and container industry are developing and launching new products in the market. The main focus is on integrating with different firms and extending geographical presence. Collaborations and partnerships with local brands and start-up companies for new product development are gaining traction.

Start-up firms are focusing on joining hands with large-scale food and beverage manufacturers to offer the latter new glass-based packaging solutions, including containers. Such strategies are enabling the companies to broaden presence in specific areas and gain more customers.

With rising concerns about the environment, consumers are primarily looking for recycling programs across the globe. To meet this high demand, companies are set to start new programs in urban as well as remote areas.

For instance, in May 2024, Bedford Borough Council started the trial of the glass jar and bottle recycling program. The experiment is set to last for around nine months and focuses on improving recycling rates.

Industry Updates

• In February 2024, Ohio-based Owens-Illinois, Inc. introduced a new edition of lightweight wine bottles in France with reduced carbon impact. The company plans to reduce carbon emissions by 25% with this launch.
• In March 2024, Ardagh Group S.A., based in Luxembourg, entered into a partnership with Stevens Point Brewery to locally supply glass beer bottles for breweries.
• In June 2023, France-based SGD Pharma announced a joint venture with Corning Incorporated by opening a glass tubing facility in India. The company will utilize the Velocity Vial technology of Corning for manufacturing in India.

Leading Glass Container Brands

• Owens-Illinois Inc.
• Ardagh Group S.A.
• Encirc Ltd.
• Anchor Glass Container Corporation
• Adelphi Healthcare Packaging
• Frigoglass Jebel Ali Glass Factory
• Jebel Ali Container Glass Factory
• Gerresheimer AG
• Saverglass SAS
• Piramal Glass Private Limited.
• HNG Float Glass Limited
• Shandong Linuo Technical Glass Co., Ltd
• Italesse S.R.L.
• Vidrala S.A.
• Vitro, S.A.B. de C.V.
• AGI Glasspack Limited.
• Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, Ltd.
• Verallia
• Stoelzle Glass Group
• Schott AG
• Nipro Corporation
• Gallo Glass Company
• Arglass Yamamura SE, LLC
• MIRON Violetglass
• Alpack Ltd.

Key Segments of Market Report

By Product Type:

The industry is segregated into glass bottles, glass jars, glass vials, ampoules, and syringes. Glass bottles are further divided into sauce/syrup bottles, French square bottles, Boston round bottles, and glass jugs. Glass jars are sub-segmented into Mason jars, hexagonal glass jar, paragon glass jar, and straight-sided jar. Lastly, glass vials are fractionated into food-grade and pharma-grade vials.

By Material:

In terms of material, the industry is divided into type 1 (borosilicate glass), type 2 (treated soda lime glass), type 3 (regular soda lime glass), and type 4 (general purpose soda lime glass).

By Capacity:

Containers with capacities of up to 50 ml, 51 to 250 ml, 251 to 1000 ml, 1001 to 2000 ml, and above 2000 ml are described.

By Distribution Channel:

Few of the important distribution channels include direct sales (manufacturers), distributors, retailers, and e-retail.

By End Use:

Few of the leading end-used include cosmetics and perfumery, beverage packaging, food packaging, and pharmaceuticals. The segments are further divided into sub-categories. Color cosmetics and perfumes are two significant parts of the cosmetics and perfumery segment. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are mainly packed in glass-based containers under the beverage packaging segment. The food packaging category is segregated into sauces and jam, fresh produce, spices and condiments, edible oil, dairy, and others.

By Region:

Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East and Africa are covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the future of glass containers?

The industry is set to witness a CAGR of 3.4% by 2034.

What was the worth of the glass container market from 2019 to 2023?

The industry witnessed a CAGR of 2.6% from 2019 to 2023.

How big is the glass container market?

In 2034, the industry is anticipated to reach USD 89.3 billion.

Which country in Europe is set to lead the industry?

Germany is estimated to lead by showcasing a 3.9% CAGR through 2034.

Who are the key glass container manufacturers?

Ardagh Group S.A., Owens-Illinois, Inc., Verallia, and Vidrala S.A.

Is there a market for glass bottles?

The glass bottle market is set to reach USD 70.2 billion by 2033.