Folding IBC Market Outlook From 2023 to 2033

The folding IBC market revenue is expected to reach USD 793.6 million in 2023. The folding IBC market is expected to generate USD 1,471.2 million by 2033. The folding IBC market is forecast to increase at a CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period.

Folding IBC Market Trends and Highlights

A folding IBC rental business can be profitable, particularly for companies who require seasonal or occasional shipping services.

The inclusion of folding IBCs in integrated solutions can be made possible by partnering with companies in related industries.

Supply chain management and logistics can be improved through the incorporation of digital tracking and monitoring technologies into individual IBCs. Furthermore, the burgeoning e-commerce sector and the rise of international trade have also contributed to the growth of this market.

Key Folding IBC Market Trends

  • IBCs that can be reued and recycled are likely to gain popularity in the future as companies look for ways to minimize their environmental impact.
  • The ability to adapt to industry-specific regulations and remain versatile will remain key.
  • IBCs are now equipped with IoT and sensor technology to monitor inventory, optimize supply chains, and track assets.
  • Future advancements in the industry may be facilitated by automation and real-time analytics.
  • IBCs may become stronger, longer-lasting, and corrosion-resistant as materials science advances.
  • IBC designers, materials, and pricing may improve with competition in the market.
Attributes Key Insights
Folding IBC Market Value (2023) USD 793.6 million
Projected Industry Value in (2033) USD 1,471.2 million
Value-based CAGR from 2023 to 2033 6.3%

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2018 to 2022 Historical Analysis vs. 2023 to 2033 Market Forecast Projections

The folding IBC market exhibited a value of USD 746.7 billion in 2022. Global folding IBC demand is expected to increase at a 6.3% CAGR between 2023 and 2033. Increasing demand for space-saving and reusable materials is expected to drive the market.

Market Value in 2022 USD 746.7 million
Market Value in 2023 USD 793.6 million

A folding IBC is a versatile container that can handle both liquid and dry bulk materials. Agricultural, chemical, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical industries benefit from their adaptability. As e-commerce grows, intelligent packaging solutions are needed for liquid and bulk goods delivered to the last mile. IBCs with foldable lids can be designed specifically for this market.

Customized solutions and tailored products, such as IBCs with cooling or heating capabilities, can differentiate products and meet specific industry needs. Agricultural products can be stored and transported using folding IBCs, such as fertilizers and pesticides. The development of IBCs for the agricultural sector may present niche market opportunities.

Folding IBC Market Drivers

  • With advancements in technology, folding IBCs are expected to gain more popularity on the market. Sensor integration and smart container demand will increase in the near future. To make folding IBCs stronger, more durable, and lighter, manufacturers may experiment with new materials. Composites or engineered plastics that are lightweight, high-strength, and can maintain structural integrity could be used.
  • Production efficiency and labor costs can be reduced by automating manufacturing processes. Warehouses and manufacturing facilities can also use robotics to stack and transport IBCs. Some manufacturers offer customized IBC solutions to meet the needs of specific industries. As a result of modular design, businesses will be able to customize the functionality and capacity of IBCs based on the needs of their business.
  • Tracking and managing IBCs throughout the supply chain is made possible by the use of RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) and barcode technologies, which enable more accurate inventory and traceability management. In order to comply with regulatory requirements and protect the contents of IBCs during transit, safety and security features such as tamper-evident seals and locking mechanisms must be integrated.
Ismail Sutaria
Ismail Sutaria

Principal Consultant

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Folding IBC Market Restraints

  • Manufacturers of folding IBCs can face various challenges in complying with international regulations and standards, particularly when handling hazardous materials. Besides being costly and time-consuming, meeting these requirements can be challenging.
  • Folding IBCs with high levels of durability that are industry-compliant can be expensive to develop. Material investments, manufacturing processes, and quality control procedures can impact profit margins.
  • The advantages of folding IBCs may not be apparent to some potential customers. Awareness and adoption can be increased through marketing and education.
  • With a wide range of products offered by numerous players, the IBC market is highly competitive. Prices can be driven down by this competition, making it difficult for some manufacturers to remain profitable. Supply chains and raw materials are impacted by events like the COVID-19 pandemic that impact folding IBC production.

Country-wise Insights

Based on revenues, the following table illustrates the top 5 leading countries, led by India and China. By 2033, folding IBC sales will increase in these two countries as trade demand grows and carbon footprints are reduced.

Forecast CAGR from 2023 to 2033

Countries Forecast CAGR
The United Kingdom 4.1%
India 6.2%
The United States 2.7%
Germany 2.1%
China 5.4%

Environmental Sustainability Fuels the Demand for Folding IBCs in the United States

The United States market for folding IBC has grown steadily over the past few years. Based on forecasts, the market is expected to rise at 2.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2033. Folding IBCs are becoming increasingly popular in the United States due to their efficiency and reliability. The number of industries and the demand for folding IBCs for these industries is expected to increase in the years to come.

Folding IBCs saves space in trucks and shipping containers due to their compact nature. With the increasing number of goods that can be transported in a single load and reduced transportation costs.

Rising Chemical Industries and Government Programs will Increase Demand for Folding IBCs in India

India is expected to see a rise in folding IBC consumption in the coming years. From 2023 to 2033, the market is anticipated to expand at 6.2% CAGR. The chemical industry in India relies heavily on secure storage and handling of chemicals, ensuring the integrity of products with folding IBCs. Furthermore, folding IBCs are easy to transport and store owing to their collapsible design, thereby reducing logistics expenses.

Government investments and programs such as 'Make in India' are helping India produce folding IBCs. As a result, the country is being able to meet its growing demand.

China's Growing International Business will Drive Demand for Folding IBCs

Folding IBCs are expected to be dominated by China. A CAGR of 5.4% is predicted for the market from 2023 to 2033. Export and import businesses are expected to increase in China, driving the market for folding IBC.

Increasing environmental conditions and a desire to reduce carbon footprints are driving demand for folding IBCs. As demand grows, more emphasis will be placed on waste management and environmentally friendly practices in logistics and supply chain management.

Food and pharmaceutical industries, for instance, require folding IBCs that ensure safe product handling and storage. Various goods can be shipped via folding IBCs through China, which is a major international trade hub. In addition to their standard sizes, they are durable enough to be used for exports and imports.

Germany's Food Industries will Experience Rapid Growth, Driving Demand for folding IBC

As the market for folding IBCs continues to grow, Germany is set to lead the way. Germany is expected to increase at 2.1% CAGR from 2023 to 2033. Rising food and beverage business is expected to grow demand for folding IBC in the market.

International regulations and standards regulate the transportation of goods, resulting in the common use of folding IBCs. Standards for safety and quality are rigorously enforced, which is expected to increase demand in the future.

Regulations and Dietary Habits Expand Sales for folding IBCin the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is expected to dominate the folding IBC market. Between 2023 and 2033, the market is predicted to expand at a CAGR of 4.1%. Safety and hygiene standards are mandatory in many industries. In order to meet these requirements, folding IBCs are designed to enable goods to be stored and transported safely.

Returnable packaging is being encouraged in the UK as well as many other countries to reduce carbon emissions and reduce waste. As demand for recyclable IBCs increases, the market is expected to expand.

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Category-wise Insights

According to market forecasts, liquid packaging content is expected to dominate the market, holding a market share of 89.8% in 2023. Over the forecast period, the chemical application segment is expected to reach a market share of 45.4%.

Segment Market Share in 2023
Liquid by Packaging Content 89.8%
Chemicals by Application 45.4%

Folding IBCs for Liquid Segments to Gain Traction in the Market

Based on the packaging content, the liquid segment is projected to show the fastest growth for folding IBCs. By 2033, the market share is expected to increase by 89.8%. Increasing regulations and demand for safe packaging systems to grow demand for folding IBCs in the market. Paper and plastic materials will be in greater demand as durable and strengthening materials become more prevalent.

Liquid packaging in IBCs varies depending on the industry. Chemical companies often use IBCs to transport and store bulk chemicals, while food and beverage companies use them for liquids. Demand for liquids is significantly influenced by the type of packaging. Various liquids can be packaged in IBCs, including water, chemicals, beverages, oils, and others. The material and specifications required for IBCs can vary depending on the type of liquid.

Folding IBC in the Market Will Be Driven by Chemical Applications

Based on the application, chemicals are expected to dominate the market. From 2023 to 2033, chemical applications are expected to dominate the market with 45.4% of the market share. Chemical industries are increasingly using folding IBCs due to their chemical resistance.

The folding IBC container is used in a wide range of applications for storing chemical products and moving them around. The chemical industry relies on the safe and efficient storage and transportation of chemicals, and folding IBCs provide a suitable solution. These containers are designed to withstand the corrosive nature of chemicals and ensure the integrity of the products during handling and transit.

A folding IBC offers high chemical resistance, making it an ideal container for transporting and storing chemicals. Folding IBCs makes it easier to handle chemicals safely and efficiently, ensuring the safety of both the product and those involved in the process. Chemicals such as liquids, powders, and granules can be stored in folding IBCs. Due to their versatility, they can handle different kinds of chemicals.

For chemical storage and transportation, folding IBCs are the perfect solution. Designed with a collapsible structure, they can efficiently use storage and shipping space, which reduces expenses associated with logistics. Chemical agents are resistant to folding IBCs, they are safe, versatile, and economical. As part of the production, storage, and distribution of chemicals, these containers play a crucial role.

Competitive Landscape

Folding IBC is extremely fragmented and competitive due to several local and regional competitors. A number of key players have adopted marketing strategies including mergers, partnerships, acquisitions, and expansions.

  • In July 2023, Mondi switched to TankerBox, a paper-based alternative designed to improve container maintenance, reduce shipping costs, and increase shipping capacity. Tosca has developed a new tool to encourage companies to switch to its foldable IBC solutions for the transportation of bulk liquids in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel consumption, and water use.
  • In September 2023, with the launch of its MAX lamination technology, DS Smith Tecnicarton seeks to enhance corrugated cardboard packaging resistance, optimize its stacking capability, and create an environmentally friendly transport solution that is reusable and fully recyclable.

Report Scope

Attributes Details
Estimated Market Size in 2023 USD 793.6 million
Projected Market Valuation in 2033 USD 1,471.2 million
Value-based CAGR 2023 to 2033 6.3%
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Historical Data Available for 2018 to 2022
Market Analysis Value in USD million
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; South Asia and Pacific; East Asia; The Middle East & Africa
Key Market Segments Covered Material, Capacity, Application, Packaging Content, Region
Key Countries Profiled The United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, The United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, India, Bangladesh, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, South Korea, GCC countries, South Africa, Israel
Key Companies Profiled Schoeller Allibert Group B.V.; Ac Buckhorn LLC; Finncont Oy; A. R. Arena Products Inc.; TranPak Inc.; TPS Rental Systems Ltd; RPP Containers; Horen Group; ORBIS Corp.; Bulk Handling Australia Group Pty Ltd; Dalian CIMC Logistics Equipment Co. ;Ltd.; Loscam Ltd.; Milford IBC

Segmentation Analysis of the Folding IBC Market

By Material:

  • Metal Folding IBCs
    • Carbon Steel Folding IBCs
    • Stainless Steel Folding IBCs
  • Plastic Folding IBCs

By Capacity Type:

  • Up to 500 L
  • 501 to 1000 L
  • 1,001 to 1,500 L

By Application:

  • Chemicals
    • Hazardous
    • Non-Hazardous
  • Petrochemical Products
  • Paints, Inks, & Dye
  • Food & Beverage
  • Automotive & Mechanical Parts
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries
  • Others

By Packaging Content:

  • Liquid
  • Solid & Semisolid

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • South Asia and Pacific
  • East Asia
  • Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected market size for folding IBC in 2023?

Folding IBC sales are expected to reach USD 793.6 million in 2023.

What is the expected CAGR for folding IBC sales from 2023 to 2033?

From 2023 to 2033, folding IBCs are projected to expand by 6.3% CAGR.

What is the projected size of the folding IBC market in 2033?

The folding IBC industry is forecast to reach USD 1471.2 million by 2033.

Which application is expected to dominate the folding IBC market?

The chemical application segment is expected to dominate the market.

Which packaging content is expected to dominate the folding IBC market?

The liquid segment is expected to dominate the folding market.

Table of Content
  • 1. Executive Summary
  • 2. Market Overview
  • 3. Market Background
  • 4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
  • 5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Material
    • 5.1. Metal Folding IBCs
      • 5.1.1. Carbon Steel Folding IBCs
      • 5.1.2. Stainless Steel Folding IBCs
    • 5.2. Plastic Folding IBCs
  • 6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Capacity
    • 6.1. Up to 500 L
    • 6.2. 501 to 1,000 L
    • 6.3. 1,001 to 1,500 L
    • 6.4. Above 1,500 L
  • 7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Application
    • 7.1. Chemicals
      • 7.1.1. Hazardous
      • 7.1.2. Non-Hazardous
    • 7.2. Petrochemical Products
    • 7.3. Paints, Inks, & Dye
    • 7.4. Food & Beverage
    • 7.5. Automotive & Mechanical Parts
    • 7.6. Cosmetic & Toiletries
    • 7.7. Others
  • 8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Packaging Content
    • 8.1. Liquid
    • 8.2. Solid & Semisolid
  • 9. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
    • 9.1. North America
    • 9.2. Latin America
    • 9.3. Western Europe
    • 9.4. Eastern Europe
    • 9.5. South Asia and Pacific
    • 9.6. East Asia
    • 9.7. Middle East and Africa
  • 10. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 11. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 12. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 13. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 14. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 15. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 16. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
  • 17. Key Countries Market Analysis
  • 18. Market Structure Analysis
  • 19. Competition Analysis
    • 19.1. Schoeller Allibert Group B.V.
    • 19.2. Ac Buckhorn LLC
    • 19.3. Finncont Oy
    • 19.4. A. R. Arena Products Inc.
    • 19.5. TranPak Inc.
    • 19.6. TPS Rental Systems Ltd
    • 19.7. RPP Containers
    • 19.8. Horen Group
    • 19.9. ORBIS Corp.
    • 19.10. Bulk Handling Australia Group Pty Ltd
    • 19.11. Dalian CIMC Logistics Equipment Co., Ltd.
    • 19.12. Loscam Ltd.
    • 19.13. Milford IBC
  • 20. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
  • 21. Research Methodology
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