Sales of flexible plastic packaging products in Europe are estimated to be valued at US$ 12.7 billion in 2023. Over the forecast period, flexible plastic packaging demand in Europe is predicted to rise at 3.4% CAGR.
Europe flexible plastic packaging revenue totaled US$ 12.2 billion at the end of 2022, and it will likely exhibit Y-o-Y growth of 3.8% in 2023. The target business is pegged to expand 1.4X through 2033. By 2033, the Europe plastic packaging business size is set to reach US$ 17.7 billion by 2033, driven by:
Despite the region’s tightening stand on plastic usage, Europe remains one of the leading users of plastic packaging, including flexible plastic packaging and rigid plastic packaging. This is attributable to its cost-effectiveness, lightweight, customizability, and other advantages.
Flexible plastic packaging is one of the most preferred packaging solutions among several end-use industries including food & beverages, pharmaceutical, and personal care. This is due to its excellent features, such as durability, lightweight, recyclability, and capacity to change shapes as per the requirement.
The bags & sacks segment is projected to acquire a value share of 36.3% by 2033. This is due to increasing demand for bags & sacks in the growing retail & e-commerce sector and increasing demand for packaged food & beverage items.
The food industry and pharmaceutical industries are leading end-use sectors of flexible plastic packaging in Europe. Increasing demand for packaged food and more variety of food items will fuel the demand for flexible plastic packaging from the food industry.
Demand for user-friendly packaging from the pharmaceutical industry will augment the sale of flexible plastic packaging in Europe. Hence, a steady growth trajectory has been predicted for the target business for the projection period.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Europe Flexible Plastic Packaging Business Size in 2022 | US$ 12.2 billion |
| Estimated Value (2023) | US$ 12.7 billion |
| Europe Flexible Plastic Packaging Business Revenue (2033) | US$ 17.7 billion |
| Value CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 3.4% |
Don't pay for what you don't need
Customize your report by selecting specific countries or regions and save 30%!
The flexible plastic packaging business in Europe witnessed a CAGR of 2.0% during the historic period with total valuation reaching US$ 12.2 billion at the end of 2022. In the forecast period, demand for flexible plastic packaging across Europe is projected to surge at 3.4% CAGR.
| Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) | 2.0% |
|---|---|
| Forecast CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 3.4% |
The evolution of flexible plastic packaging in Europe represents a complex movement that includes technical innovation, changes in consumer views, and impacts of rules. The area has set pace in the adoption of novel packaging approaches focusing on both sustainable and recyclable alternatives.
The adoption of high-grade materials and novel production techniques is changing the dynamics of this business. The flexible plastic packaging business has a look back at history beyond mere adjustment and innovation, but rather a concerted attempt to strike a balance between growth and consideration for environmental protection.
Rising demand for packaged food products is expected to boost growth of flexible plastic packaging business in Europe. Robust expansion of online shopping platforms is another key factor expected to fuel sales of flexible plastic packaging in Europe through 2033.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 3.5% (2022 to 2032) |
| H2 | 3.3% (2022 to 2032) |
| H1 | 3.3% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 3.5% (2023 to 2033) |
Principal Consultant
Bioplastics, nowadays, are driving the evolution of plastic packaging. The key benefits of bio-based plastic products as compared to their conventional counterparts are that they save fossil resources by using biomass, which provides a unique potential to engender carbon neutrality.
According to the European Bioplastics Association, in Europe, about 40% of plastics are used in packaging, comprising around 20 million every year, with 50% of goods being packed in plastics. Therefore, considering the enormous consumption of plastics in packaging, the need for sustainable packaging solutions has risen.
Bio-based plastics use materials such as PLA, PHA, cellulose, or starch-based materials that can biodegrade or be composted. To woo eco-conscious customers and counter environmental regulations, key flexible plastic packaging giants across Europe are changing their preference towards using bioplastics.
Europe has led the world in the evolution of biopolymers. Bio-based plastics are sourced from sustainable resources like agricultural waste rather than petrochemicals. Bio-based plastics have helped the European Union to meet its targets of greenhouse gas emission reduction.
Bioplastics have also made a considerable contribution to using resources efficiently through closed resource cycles of reuse or recycling and are eventually used for energy recovery. European Bioplastics Association supports Life Cycle Assessment and Life Cycle Thinking to promote and substantiate environmentally sustainable products.
Growing environmental concerns and the rising demand for eco-friendly substitutes will likely drive the flexible plastic packaging business in Europe. Subsequently, favorable government initiatives will benefit flexible plastic packaging companies.
The penetration of plastics into food and beverage packaging in Europe continues apace. Impressive growth of online food orders and ready-to-eat food packaging has driven key international companies to produce unique packaging, including flexible ones, for the current consumer needs.
Rapid urbanization across Europe is creating a high need for packaged foods such as frozen, processed, and ready-to-eat food. This increasing demand for packaged foods presents good news for the plastic packaging industry, particularly the flexible plastic packaging one.
Supermarkets and convenience stores make most of their fruit and vegetables in paper bags, plastic bags, and other flexible packaging materials. One of the significant improvements in fresh product packing includes the coming up with vacuum packaging that increases the shelf life by an extended period.
Most frozen fruits and vegetables come in flexible bags now. This is because they are strong and tolerate low temperatures in a freezer environment for long periods without any loss of barrier performance or flexibility. Therefore, changes in lifestyles and consumer preferences regarding food consumption will augment the plastic flexible packaging business in Europe.
The new era of internet-based e-commerce and shopping is opening enormous opportunities for flexible plastic packaging producers. The game-changer in the age of convenience movement is e-commerce. It is also forcing some prices down in various sectors because of its efficiencies and the convenience of comparison shopping.
The rise in the retail segment through e-commerce is having virtual effects on the flexible plastic packaging business, which is also projected to increase. E-commerce differs from a regular traditional business in that it should have conveniently packaged products at minimal costs.
E-commerce has flourished rapidly in Europe during the last ten years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further expedited growth. This is because several consumers have switched to online and safe shopping instead of shopping at the shops.
The growth of e-commerce on the European continent amounted to 10% from 2019 to 2020. In Europe, the number of internet users is also increasing, which means that digital literacy and skills are rising, too. This is creating a conducive environment for the expansion of flexible plastic packaging business.
The increasing modern retailers like supermarkets, hypermarkets and specialty and convenience stores in Europe offer substantial demand potential for flexible packaging. Flexible plastic packages such as trays, bags, pouches, sachets, cups, bottles, and others are demanded more urgently in today’s world of the fast growth of organized retail and shopping malls.
The below table shows the estimated growth rates of top countries in Europe. Among these, Spain and Portugal are predicted to emerge as highly lucrative pockets for flexible plastic packaging, recording CAGRs of 4.3% and 4.5%, respectively, through 2033.
| Countries | Value (CAGR) |
|---|---|
| Germany | 2.5% |
| Italy | 2.9% |
| France | 3.5% |
| United Kingdom | 2.2% |
| Spain | 4.3% |
| Portugal | 4.5% |
Germany is the leading consumer of plastics and flexible plastic packaging in Europe. This is due to availability of raw materials, population growth, urbanization, rise of e-commerce, and expanding end-use industries.
Flexible plastic packaging is lightweight, inexpensive, and space-efficient. As a result, it is widely used for shipping and storing products in the thriving e-commerce industry in Germany. This is expected to boost the target business in the country through 2033.
The rising collaboration and improving synergy between key players is another pivotal factor that accelerates the growth of flexible plastic packaging business in Germany. Similarly, growing demand for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions is expected to boost sales.
Germany is estimated to dominate the European flexible plastic packaging business, with a value share of around 20% in 2023. Over the forecast period, demand for flexible plastic packaging products in Germany is set to rise at a CAGR of 2.5%
By 2033, Germany flexible plastic packaging business size is predicted to reach US$ 3,261.2 million. It will hold a significant business share of flexible packaging in Europe. This is attributable to the rising demand for online packaging solutions and growing preference for plastic packaging.
Get the data you need at a Fraction of the cost
Personalize your report by choosing insights you need
and save 40%!
The below section shows the bags and sacks segment dominating the European flexible plastic packaging business. It is projected to thrive at a CAGR of 2.8% during the assessment period. Based on end use, the commercial packaging solutions will lead the target business, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.3%.
| Product Type | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Pouches | 3.3% |
| Bags & Sacks | 2.8% |
| Tubes | 4.5% |
| Sleeve Labels | 4.2% |
| Films & Wraps | 3.8% |
As per the latest analysis, demand remains high for flexible bags & sacks in Europe. The target segment is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 2.8% during the forecast period, reaching a valuation of US$ 6,129.6 million by 2033.
Flexible packaging solutions, especially bags and sacks, are gaining increasing popularity in diverse fields including food packaging as well as industrial applications. This indicates its diverse use, which is driving sales across Europe.
Bags & sacks are versatile, flexible plastic packaging solutions used for a wide variety of products. For instance, they are widely used for packing products like clothing, electronics, and groceries. This is driving their demand across Europe.
The fast expansion of e-commerce is expected to play a key role in driving demand for flexible bag & sack packaging. These packaging solutions are a pragmatic yet budget-friendly option to ship and store commodities in line with the ease that merchants and consumer demand.
| End Use | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Consumer Packaging | 3.3% |
| Industrial Packaging | 4.4% |
Based on end use, consumer packaging segment is projected to hold 92.6% of revenue share in 2033. It will likely exhibit a CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period, totaling US$ 16,465.3 million by 2033.
The consumer flexible packaging segment is set to retain its dominance through 2033. This is due to rising usage of flexible plastic packaging for packing a wide range of consumer goods, including foods, consumer electronics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Flexible plastic packaging, tailored for consumer goods, has become essential in meeting the dynamic demands of contemporary living. The adaptability of these materials allows for innovative designs, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal in packaging.
The consumer-packaging sector is witnessing a shift toward sustainable practices, prompting the integration of eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Hence, companies that will utilize more sustainable and eco-friendly materials are likely to succeed in this business.
Key manufacturers of flexible plastic packaging products in Europe are concentrating on utilizing sustainable materials like bioplastic for producing their packaging solutions. They are also implementing strategies like partnerships, acquisitions, alliances, collaborations, and mergers to expand their expertise and footprint.
Recent Developments in the Europe Flexible Plastic Packaging Business:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Value (2023) | US$ 12.7 billion |
| Projected Value (2033) | US$ 17.7 billion |
| Anticipated Growth Rate (2023 to 2033) | 3.4% CAGR |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Revenue in Value US$ Million, Volume in 000’ Tonnes and CAGR from 2023 to 2033 |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Key Companies Profiled |
|
The Europe business value is set to total US$ 12.7 billion in 2023.
By 2033, Europe business size is projected to reach US$ 17.7 billion.
The target business exhibited 2.0% CAGR over the last 4 years.
Demand in Europe is projected to increase at 3.4% CAGR through 2033.
Mondi Plc, Amcor Plc, Berry Global, Inc, DS Smith Plc, and Huhtamäki Oyj.
The consumer packaging segment is expected to garner a significant value share.
Amcor Plc, Berry Global, Inc, and Sealed Air Corporation, among others.
1. Executive Summary
1.1. Industry Outlook
1.2. Industry Analysis
1.3. Analysis and Recommendations
2. Business Overview
2.1. Business Coverage / Taxonomy
2.2. Business Definition / Scope / Limitations
3. Key Trends
3.1. Key Trends Impacting Sales Growth
3.2. Product Innovation / Development Trends
4. Key Success Factors
4.1. Product Adoption / Usage Analysis
4.2. Strategic Promotional Strategies
5. PESTLE & Porter 5 Forces Analysis
6. Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
6.1. Historical Business Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
6.2. Current and Future Business Volume (000’ Tonnes) Projections, 2023 to 2033
6.3. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis
7. Demand (in Value or Size in US$ Million) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
7.1. Historical Business Value (US$ Million) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
7.2. Current and Future Business Value (US$ Million) Projections, 2023 to 2033
8. Business Background
8.1. Industry Overview
8.2. Business Overview
8.3. Macro-Economic Factors
8.4. Forecast Factors - Relevance & Impact
8.5. Value Chain Analysis & Profitability Margin
8.5.1. Key Participants
8.5.1.1. Exhaustive List of Raw Material Supplier
8.5.1.2. Exhaustive List of Manufacturers / Suppliers / Converters
8.6. Cased-based Scenario – Impact Assessment
8.6.1. Current Statistics
8.6.2. Short-Mid-Long Term Outlook
8.6.3. Likely Rebound
8.7. Key Dynamics
8.7.1. Drivers
8.7.2. Restraints
8.7.3. Opportunity Analysis
9. Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
9.1. Historical Business Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
9.2. Current and Future Business Volume (000’ Tonnes) Projections, 2023 to 2033
9.3. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis
10. Pricing Analysis
10.1. Country Wise Pricing Analysis by Material
10.2. Europe Average Pricing Analysis Benchmark
11. Demand (in Value or Size in US$ Million) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
11.1. Historical Business Value (US$ Million) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
11.2. Current and Future Business Value (US$ Million) Projections, 2023 to 2033
12. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Material
12.1. Introduction / Key Findings
12.2. Historical Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis By Material, 2018 to 2022
12.3. Current and Future Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis and Forecast By Material, 2023 to 2033
12.3.1. Oil-based Polymers
12.3.1.1. Polyethylene
12.3.1.2. Polypropylene
12.3.1.3. BOPET
12.3.1.4. PVC
12.3.1.5. Polyamide
12.3.1.6. EVOH
12.3.1.7. Polystyrene
12.3.2. Bioplastics
12.3.2.1. PLA
12.3.2.2. PHA
12.3.2.3. Starch-based Plastics
12.4. Business Attractiveness Analysis By Material
13. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product Type
13.1. Introduction / Key Findings
13.2. Historical Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis By Product Type, 2018 to 2022
13.3. Current and Future Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis and Forecast By Product Type, 2023 to 2033
13.3.1. Pouches
13.3.2. Bags & Sacks
13.3.3. Tubes
13.3.4. Sleeve Labels
13.3.5. Films & Wraps
13.4. Business Attractiveness Analysis By Product Type
14. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End Use
14.1. Introduction / Key Findings
14.2. Historical Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis By End Use, 2018 to 2022
14.3. Current and Future Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis and Forecast By End Use, 2023 to 2033
14.3.1. Consumer Packaging
14.3.1.1. Food
14.3.1.2. Pet Food
14.3.1.3. Beverages
14.3.1.4. Consumer Electronics
14.3.1.5. Personal Care b& Cosmetics
14.3.1.6. Homecare & Toiletries
14.3.1.7. Pharmaceuticals
14.3.2. Industrial Packaging
14.3.2.1. Building & Construction
14.3.2.2. Automotive Parts
14.3.2.3. Chemicals
14.3.2.4. Machinery & Components
14.3.2.5. Other Industrial Goods
14.4. Business Attractiveness Analysis By End Use
15. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Packaging Type
15.1. Introduction / Key Findings
15.2. Historical Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis By Packaging Type, 2018 to 2022
15.3. Current and Future Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis and Forecast By Packaging Type, 2023 to 2033
15.3.1. Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP)
15.3.2. Modified Atmospheric Packaging (MAP)
15.3.3. General Barrier
15.4. Business Attractiveness Analysis By Packaging Type
16. Industry Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by Country
16.1. Introduction / Key Findings
16.2. Historical Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis By Country, 2018 to 2022
16.3. Current and Future Business Size (US$ Million) and Volume (000’ Tonnes) Analysis and Forecast By Country, 2023 to 2033
16.3.1. Germany
16.3.2. Italy
16.3.3. France
16.3.4. United Kingdom
16.3.5. Spain
16.3.6. Portugal
16.3.7. BENELUX
16.3.8. Nordic
16.3.9. Russia
16.3.10. Rest of Europe
16.4. Business Attractiveness Analysis By Country
17. Business Structure Analysis
17.1. Industry Analysis by Tier of Companies (Business)
17.2. Business Share Analysis of Top Players
17.3. Business Presence Analysis
18. Cross Section Analysis of Business
19. Competition Analysis
19.1. Competition Dashboard
19.2. Competition Benchmarking
19.3. Competition Deep Dive (Europe Based/Operating Key Players)
19.3.1. Amcor Plc.
19.3.1.1. Overview
19.3.1.2. Product Portfolio
19.3.1.3. Profitability by Key Segments (Material/Product Type/End Use/Packaging Type/Region)
19.3.1.4. Sales Footprint
19.3.1.5. Strategy Overview
19.3.2. Berry Global, Inc
19.3.3. Huhtamäki Oyj
19.3.4. Sonoco Products Company
19.3.5. Sealed Air Corporation
19.3.6. Mondi Plc
19.3.7. DS Smith Plc
19.3.8. Constantia s Group GmbH
19.3.9. Schur s Holding GesmbH
19.3.10. Bischof + Klein GmbH & Co. KG
19.3.11. Clondalkin Group Holdings B.V.
19.3.12. ProAmpac LLC
19.3.13. Uflex Ltd.
19.3.14. Goglio SpA
*The above list is indicative in nature and is subject to change during the course of research
20. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
21. Research Methodology
Packaging
November 2023
REP-GB-18231
225 pages
Packaging
November 2023
REP-GB-18082
350 pages
Explore Packaging Insights
View Reports
Flexible Plastic Packaging Industry Analysis in Europe
