Sales of retail paper bags in Europe are estimated to be valued at around US$ 1,874.5 million in 2023. The business is expected to reach US$ 2,956.1 million by 2033. Revenue of the retail paper bag business in Europe is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.7% in the forecast period 2023 to 2033.
The revenue generated by retail paper bags in 2022 was US$ 1,778.1 million and is anticipated to exhibit a y-o-y growth of 5.4% in 2023. The agriculture sector is a significant user of retail paper bags, which will gain more than 38% of the share in terms of value by 2022.
Retail paper bags made out of brown kraft paper are set to capture a prominent value share of 58% and are expected to surge at a CAGR of around 4.1% over the forecast period. Sewn open-mouth bags turn out to be the most popular ones among the other types of retail paper bags. These are anticipated to gain 1/3rd of the share in 2033, generating a total financial potential of US$ 374 million between 2023 and 2033.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Europe Retail Paper Bag Revenue, 2022 | US$ 1,778.1 million |
| Europe Retail Paper Bag Business Estimated Revenue, 2023 | US$ 1,874.5 million |
| Europe Retail Paper Bag Business Projected Revenue, 2033 | US$ 2,956.1 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
The demand for retail paper bags in Europe is expected to experience lucrative growth during the forecast period. A study of the retail paper bag business in Europe predicts that sales will rise from 2023 to 2033. The business is projected to foster a growth potential of US$ 1.2 billion and is anticipated to expand 1.6x times the current value during the assessment period.
The retail sector is an essential part of the economy in Europe, where several types of businesses sell goods to customers. The demand for food and beverages, consumer products, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products is increasing at a higher rate, which has led to the opening of new shopping malls and supermarkets in several countries in Europe. This growth has positively influenced the demand for paper bags in the retail sector.
The cost-effectiveness of paper bags is another factor driving their adoption in the retail sector. Paper bags are relatively inexpensive compared to other packaging materials, making them an attractive option for retailers who need to keep their packaging costs under control.
As retailers and consumers continue to prioritize eco-friendly packaging options, the demand for paper bags made from biodegradable materials such as craft paper and recycled fiber is expected to increase. It is set to provide further growth opportunities for the retail paper bag business in Europe.
Several countries in Europe, such as Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, have implemented bans on single-use plastic bags. These bans have created a significant demand for alternative packaging solutions, such as retail paper bags, which are seen as a more environmentally conscious option. This has resulted in a growing demand for paper bags, which has contributed to the expansion of retail paper bags in Europe.
As per the European Commission (EU), growing concerns over the environmental impact of single-use plastics have led to the implementation of several restrictions for controlling plastic litter. Governments across the continent have been implementing regulations and bans on single-use plastics to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
Businesses have been compelled to find alternative packaging solutions. Paper bags have emerged as a biodegradable option to be used over plastic bags, which has led to an increased demand for paper bags in the retail sector.
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Europe recorded a CAGR of 3.4% during the historical period. It showcased a revenue of US$ 1,778.1 million in 2022, which was a surge from US$ 1,570.4 million in 2018.
Increasing concerns for the environment have been contributing to the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions such as paper bags and other sustainable packaging solutions. Retailers and manufacturers are increasingly adopting sustainable packaging practices, which are expected to drive the growth of the retail bag space in the region.
Consumers’ growing shift toward online shopping has had a significant impact on the paper bag business in Europe. As more consumers opt for home delivery services, the demand for retail paper bags that can be used for packaging and transporting products has been on the rise. To meet this demand, retailers and manufacturers have been increasingly focusing on developing durable and sturdy bags that can protect the contents during transit.
Manufacturers have been developing bags specifically designed to meet the growing demand for the retail sector for home delivery services. These bags are made from durable materials such as kraft paper, which provides adequate protection to the contents during transit. They also feature handles and other convenience features that make them easy to carry and dispose of.
The retail bag space in Europe is expected to witness significant growth in the forecast years, driven by several factors. These include the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging, the shift toward online shopping, government initiatives, increasing consumer awareness, and innovative product development.
Semi-annual Sales Update
The table presents the expected CAGR for Europe's retail paper bag space over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2022 to 2033. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2022 to 2032, the field is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 3.4%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 4.2% in the second half (H2) of the same decade. Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2023 to H2 2033, the CAGR is projected to increase slightly to 4.4% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 3.7% in the second half.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 3.4% (2022 to 2032) |
| H2 | 4.2% (2022 to 2032) |
| H1 | 4.4% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 3.7% (2023 to 2033) |
| Attributes | Key Factors |
|---|---|
| Latest Trends |
|
| Upcoming Opportunities |
|
| Challenges |
|
Principal Consultant
In the table below of the growth potential of retail paper bags in Europe, CAGRs of leading countries are provided. France will likely lead the field of retail paper bags by exhibiting a CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2033. The country is set to be followed by Germany and the United Kingdom, with the same CAGR of 4.2% through 2033.
| Countries | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Germany | 4.2% |
| Italy | 2.6% |
| France | 4.6% |
| United Kingdom | 4.2% |
| Spain | 3.1% |
Germany has one of the leading e-commerce sectors in Europe. The number of e-commerce consumers, internet penetration, and the average amount spent per year is above the total average in Europe, as stated by the International Trade Administration.
Retail sales in Europe accounted for US$ 127.5 billion in 2021, which translates to a 24% growth compared to 2020. It is expected that the online population in Germany will increase from US$ 62.4 million in 2020 to US$ 68.4 million in 2025. E-commerce penetration in 2021 reached 77% in Germany.
Online retailers require packaging materials which is durable, sustainable, and cost-effective, and retail paper bags are a popular choice for these reasons. Paper bags made from kraft paper are durable and can withstand the rigors of shipping, making them a reliable packaging option for e-commerce companies. In addition to being durable, retail paper bags are also a sustainable packaging option.
Unlike plastic bags, these paper bags are biodegradable and can be recycled easily. This makes them an eco-friendly alternative for e-commerce companies that are looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Germany is estimated to establish an added dollar value of US$ 131.4 million between 2023 and 2033.
The United Kingdom is considered a home for everything- from internationally recognized brands to artisanal small businesses, as stated by the Department of Business and Trade. Its retail sector has proven resilient, with sales reaching US$ 441 billion in 2020.
The United Kingdom has the world’s wealthiest shoppers, who spend an average of over US$ 31.76 billion in stores in the country. It is the leading average spend of all countries across Europe.
The United Kingdom is the second most popular destination for elite shoppers, taking a 31% share. Strength in this field makes the United Kingdom an exciting location for the provision of services in high-end retail.
The United Kingdom has a large and mature retail sector, with a diverse range of businesses catering to several customer needs. This includes supermarkets, department stores, specialty stores, and online retailers, all of whom require packaging solutions for their products.
Increasing retail sales in the United Kingdom is significantly influencing the demand for retail paper bags in Europe. The United Kingdom is estimated to record a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period.
The retail sector in the United Kingdom is highly competitive, with a wide range of retailers offering several products and services to customers. To stand out and attract customers, retailers are turning to sustainable and eco-friendly packaging options, including retail paper bags.
Italy is expected to showcase a CAGR of 2.6% in Europe’s retail paper bag business through 2033. Italy has seen a rise in the importance of sustainability, which is consistent with developments in other nations across Europe. In an effort to reduce their impact on the environment, retailers are embracing paper bags and other eco-friendly packaging alternatives.
Italy has been enacting laws to limit the usage of single-use plastics. The demand for paper bags as an alternative to plastic bags can be impacted by these rules. Growing environmental consciousness among customers in Italy has resulted in a preference for stores using eco-friendly packaging. The space for paper bags can be driven by this awareness.
Due to its historical landmarks and rich cultural offerings, Italy is a well-liked travel destination. As such, the expectations and preferences of travelers can have an impact on the retail business, which includes the usage of paper bags.
Customers in Italy are frequently appreciative of designs and aesthetics. Retailers can concentrate on providing visually attractive and well-designed paper bags as a component of the whole shopping experience.
France is expected to showcase a CAGR of 4.6% in Europe’s retail paper bag business through 2033. Small and local enterprises are widely prevalent in France. These companies and manufacturers can surge their production for paper bags, particularly if they are looking for locally made and environmentally friendly packaging options.
The increasing e-commerce in Italy can have an impact on the need for packing options appropriate for online shipping. The e-commerce sector would utilize paper bags more frequently.
The use of paper bags in the retail sector can be impacted by the government of France’s programs and incentives that support sustainable practices. Retailers must comprehend cultural customs and preferences related to packaging and buying. Paper bags' commercial success can be impacted by adopting or adhering to certain principles.
The table below highlights the demand for retail paper bags in Europe by product, end-use, and material type. Under material type, the brown kraft segment will likely remain dominant in the assessment period with a CAGR of 3.1% by 2033. Based on the product, the pasted valve segment is set to showcase a significant CAGR of 4.9% through 2033 in the field of retail paper bags in Europe.
| Segment | Value-based CAGR |
|---|---|
| Brown Kraft (Material) | 3.1% |
| Pasted Valve (Product) | 4.9% |
| Agriculture (End-use) | 2.0% |
Kraft paper is biodegradable and recyclable, which means that it can be easily decomposed by natural processes and does not contribute to long-term environmental pollution. The recycling process for kraft paper is less energy-intensive than that of other types of paper and plastic, which reduces the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process.
Brown kraft paper bags are likely to expand at a moderate CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period. Brown kraft paper is estimated to account for around 58.2% of the total retail paper bag sector by 2023. The segment is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 1,638.2 million by 2033.
Brown kraft paper is becoming more and more popular in the field of retail bags across Europe as a result of legislation supporting sustainable packaging and an increased emphasis on minimizing plastic waste. Packaging materials such as brown kraft paper are in high demand due to consumer preferences and eco-awareness. To satisfy customer expectations, retailers can use brown kraft paper in response to this demand.
The agriculture segment leads the retail paper bag business in Europe, and it is expected to hold 32.0% of the share in 2033. Agriculture products require packaging that is sturdy and durable to withstand the stringencies of transportation and storage.
Retail paper bags made of kraft paper are an ideal packaging option for agricultural products due to their strength, durability, and moisture resistance. They can protect products such as grains, seeds, and fertilizers from damage and moisture, ensuring that they reach their destination in good condition.
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Key companies in Europe's retail paper bag business are concentrating on developing sustainable solutions and innovations. To strengthen their resources, renowned players are also seeking to execute the merger and acquisition strategy. To accommodate the increasing demand, a handful of other firms are creating different products.
For instance,
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Europe Retail Paper Bag Business Revenue (2023) | US$ 1,874.5 million |
| Projected Europe Retail Paper Bags Revenue (2033) | US$ 2,956.1 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
| Base Year for Estimation | 2022 |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Revenue in US$ million, Volume in Units, and CAGR from 2023 to 2033 |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis |
| Segments Covered | Material, Product, Thickness, End-use, Country |
| Key Countries Covered | Germany, Italy, France, United Kingdom, Spain, BENELUX, Russia, Rest of Europe |
| Key Companies Profiled | Mondi Plc; Smurfit Kappa Group Plc; International Paper Company; Novolex Holdings, Inc.; Welton Bibby And Baron Limited; ProAmpac LLC; Gerhard Schürholz GmbH; Huhtamaki Oyj; Toybe Global Packaging; AB Group Packaging; Smith Anderson Group Ltd; Milhe & Avons; BillerudKorsnas AB; CEE Schisler Packaging Solutions |
The business is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.7% by 2033.
The worth of the Europe retail paper bag business in 2022 was US$ 1,778.1 million.
In 2033, the Europe retail paper bag business is set to reach US$ 2,956.1 million.
Several fashion and retail brands are focusing on adopting paper bags in their packaging.
Mondi plc, Smurfit Kappa Group plc, and International Paper Company.
1. Executive Summary
1.1. Outlook
1.2. Demand Side Trends
1.3. Supply Side Trends
1.4. Technology Roadmap
1.5. Analysis and Recommendations
2. Overview
2.1. Coverage / Taxonomy
2.2. Definition / Scope / Limitations
3. Key Trends
3.1. Key Trends
3.2. Product Innovation / Development Trends
4. Key Success Factors
4.1. Product Adoption / Usage Analysis
4.2. Product USPs / Features
4.3. Strategic Promotional Strategies
5. Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
5.1. Historical Volume (tons) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
5.2. Current and Future Volume (tons) Projections, 2023 to 2033
5.3. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis
6. Business – Pricing Analysis
6.1. Regional Pricing Analysis
6.2. Average Pricing Analysis Benchmark
7. Demand (in Value or Size in US$ million) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
7.1. Historical Value (US$ million) Analysis, 2018 to 2022
7.2. Current and Future Value (US$ million) Projections, 2023 to 2033
7.2.1. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis
7.2.2. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis
8. Background
8.1. Packaging Outlook
8.2. Paper Packaging Outlook
8.3. Paper Production Overview
8.4. Macro–Economic Factors
8.5. Forecast Factors – Relevance and Impact
8.6. Value Chain Analysis
8.6.1. Raw Material Suppliers
8.6.2. Manufacturers
8.6.3. End-use
8.7. Cased Based Scenario – Impact Assessment
8.7.1. Current Statistics
8.7.2. Short–Mid–Long Term Outlook
8.7.3. Likely Rebound
8.8. Dynamics
8.8.1. Drivers
8.8.2. Restraints
8.8.3. Opportunity Analysis
8.9. Supply Demand Analysis
9. Sales Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by Product
9.1. Introduction / Key Findings
9.2. Historical Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis By Product, 2018 to 2022
9.3. Current and Future Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis and Forecast By Product, 2023 to 2033
9.3.1. Sewn Open Mouth
9.3.2. Pinched Bottom Open Mouth
9.3.3. Pasted Valve
9.3.4. Pasted Open Mouth
9.3.5. Flat Bottom
9.4. Attractiveness Analysis By Product
10. Sales Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by Material
10.1. Introduction / Key Findings
10.2. Historical Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis By Material, 2018 to 2022
10.3. Current and Future Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis and Forecast By Material, 2023 to 2033
10.3.1. Brown Kraft
10.3.2. White Kraft
10.3.3. Recycled Fiber
10.3.3.1. Brown Grade
10.3.3.2. Mechanical Grade
10.3.3.3. White Grade
10.4. Attractiveness Analysis By Material
10.5. Cross section Analysis for Material
11. Sales Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by Thickness
11.1. Introduction / Key Findings
11.2. Historical Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis By Thickness, 2018 to 2022
11.3. Current and Future Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis and Forecast By Thickness, 2023 to 2033
11.3.1. Up to 50 microns
11.3.2. 51 to 100 microns
11.3.3. 101 to 150 microns
11.3.4. Above 150 microns
11.4. Attractiveness Analysis By Thickness
12. Sales Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by End-use
12.1. Introduction / Key Findings
12.2. Historical Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis By End-use, 2018 to 2022
12.3. Current and Future Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis and Forecast By End-use, 2023 to 2033
12.3.1. Agriculture
12.3.2. Supermarkets
12.3.3. Clothing and Fashion Retail Stores
12.3.4. E-commerce
12.3.5. Food Service
12.4. Attractiveness Analysis By End-use
13. Sales Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, by Country
13.1. Introduction / Key Findings
13.2. Historical Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis By Country, 2018 to 2022
13.3. Current and Future Size (US$ million) and Volume (tons) Analysis and Forecast By Country, 2023 to 2033
13.3.1. Germany
13.3.2. Italy
13.3.3. France
13.3.4. United Kingdom
13.3.5. Spain
13.3.6. BENELUX
13.3.7. Russia
13.3.8. Rest of
13.4. Attractiveness Analysis By Country
14. Country wise Sales Analysis 2023 to 2033
14.1. Introduction
14.1.1. Value Proportion Analysis, By Key Countries
14.2. Germany Sales Analysis
14.2.1. By Product
14.2.2. By Material
14.2.3. By Thickness
14.2.4. By End-use
14.3. Italy Sales Analysis
14.3.1. By Product
14.3.2. By Material
14.3.3. By Thickness
14.3.4. By End-use
14.4. France Sales Analysis
14.4.1. By Product
14.4.2. By Material
14.4.3. By Thickness
14.4.4. By End-use
14.5. UK Sales Analysis
14.5.1. By Product
14.5.2. By Material
14.5.3. By Thickness
14.5.4. By End-use
14.6. Spain Sales Analysis
14.6.1. By Product
14.6.2. By Material
14.6.3. By Thickness
14.6.4. By End-use
14.7. BENELUX Sales Analysis
14.7.1. By Product
14.7.2. By Material
14.7.3. By Thickness
14.7.4. By End-use
14.8. Russia Sales Analysis
14.8.1. By Product
14.8.2. By Material
14.8.3. By Thickness
14.8.4. By End-use
15. Structure Analysis
15.1. Analysis by Tier of Companies
15.2. Share Analysis of Top Players
15.3. Presence Analysis
16. Competition Analysis
16.1. Competition Dashboard
16.2. Competition Benchmarking
16.3. Competition Deep Dive ( Based/Operating Key Players)
16.3.1. Mondi Plc
16.3.1.1. Overview
16.3.1.2. Product Portfolio
16.3.1.3. Profitability by Segments (Product/Material/Region)
16.3.1.4. Sales Footprint
16.3.1.5. Strategy Overview
16.3.2. Smurfit Kappa Group Plc
16.3.3. International Paper Company
16.3.4. Novolex Holdings, Inc.
16.3.5. Welton Bibby And Baron Limited
16.3.6. ProAmpac LLC
16.3.7. Gerhard Schürholz GmbH
16.3.8. Huhtamaki Oyj
16.3.9. Toybe Global Packaging
16.3.10. AB Group Packaging
16.3.11. Smith Anderson Group Ltd
16.3.12. Milhe & Avons
16.3.13. BillerudKorsnäs AB
16.3.14. CEE Schisler Packaging Solutions
*The above list is indicative in nature and is subject to change during the course of research
17. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
18. Research Methodology
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Retail Paper Bag Industry Analysis in Europe
