The rigid food containers market size is estimated to be worth USD 179.8 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 217.2 billion by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 1.9% over the forecast period between 2024 and 2034. The revenue generated by rigid food containers in 2023 was USD 176.1 billion.
The plastic rigid food containers segment by material has captured more than 46% of the total market share in the global rigid food containers market. This growth is due to its benefits such as durability, barrier resistance, lightweight, cost-effectiveness, and easy availability in several sizes and shapes to cater to food packaging with variations in portions and types.
Rigid Food Containers Industry Forecast
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Historical Size, 2023 | USD 176.1 billion |
| Estimated Size, 2024 | USD 179.8 billion |
| Projected Size, 2034 | USD 217.2 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 1.9% |
The trays and clamshells are set to capture 28.2% of the total market share in the assessment period. This is because of improved security with secured closures and easy-to-use nature, thus offering easy and quick access to the food and hence a preferred choice of rigid container for takeout and ready-to-eat meals.
The direct sales channel is anticipated to rise and capture a high market share in the forecast period. This rise is amid its convenience and accessibility to buy rigid food containers in many grocery shops and rising popularity of ready-to-eat and fresh produce meals and the need for rigid packaging solutions to maintain the quality and freshness of the product.
Among end users, restaurants and food delivery are expected to rise in the assessment period because of the need to offer foods in safe and effective packaging solutions to preserve the quality and integrity of the foodstuffs and also to avoid leakage of any kind of liquid or semi-liquid food item such as gravies, smoothies etc.
The rigid food containers market is set to experience profitable growth during the forecast period. It is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 41.1 billion and is predicted to rise 1.2 times the current value through 2034.
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The below table presents the expected CAGR for the global rigid food containers 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 1.7%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 2.1% in the second half (H2) of the same year.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 1.7% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 2.1% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 1.5% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 2.3% (2024 to 2034) |
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to decrease slightly to 1.5% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 2.3% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed a decrease of 20 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of 20 BPS.
Surging Demand for Packaged and Ready-To-Eat Foods Propels Growth
Shifting consumer buying preferences towards packaged food items and the meteoric rise in the sales of pre-cooked foods have resulted in remarkable expansion of the packaged foods market.
Consumption of ready-to-eat meals has witnessed immense popularity as a result of several factors such as the rise in the working population, increased per capita income as well as expenditure on food, and many other factors promoting ready-to-eat meals in place of traditional meals. As per the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, 90% of consumers prefer ready-to-eat meals with 15.3% of evening snacks and meals and 5.9% of lunch.
The evolving packaging industry has enabled food packaging manufacturers to provide food brands with protective packaging for their food products, which protects them from the external environment, moisture and any type of contaminant. Such packaging options also enhance the shelf life of the consumable product and allow the supply of the product to the most remote places.
Producers of ready-to-eat meals are also witnessing a heavy rise in demand due to the increased market popularity of food with hassle-free packaging that can be consumed anywhere at the convenience of the consumer. Thus, the expansion of the packaged foods market along with the increase in the sales of ready-to-eat meals have a direct positive impact on the expansion of the disposable food containers market
Demand for Disposable Rigid food Containers Boosts due to Enhanced Hygiene
The easy accessibility and improved safety of rigid food containers such as glass, plastic and metal containers have made them one of the preferred packaging solutions for food. Growing awareness regarding hygiene and the spread of diseases through touch promotes single-use packaging products, which results in increased demand for disposable packaging solutions for fulfilling the advanced needs of the consumer base.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one out of ten people suffer due to consumption of contaminated food worldwide among which 30% accounts for children under 5 years of age.
Moreover, people prefer disposable food containers over reusable ones, as these containers can be easily disposed of and are comparatively cost-effective in comparison with reusable containers. Additionally, disposable food containers do not require additional costs of labor for cleaning, which is mandatory for reusable containers.
The above-mentioned factors make disposable food containers the most demanded food packaging solution for restaurants, cafeterias, canteens, QSR and many other facilities where food is served to customers.
Also, disposable food packaging manufacturers are offering containers specifically designed for certain items, which makes it more convenient for consumers to carry those items. All these factors are leading to a heavy rise in the sales of rigid food containers across the globe
Impact of Plastic-Based Containers over Human Health and Environment
The rise in consumption of fast food products across all generations has led to high usage of plastic-based containers such as plates, trays, and cups. Due to the harmful effects of plastic on food and also on the environment, food companies are shifting towards alternative packaging solutions made up of glass, metal and aluminum.
This is due to their increased safety for direct food contact applications and higher biodegradability rate. In turn, causing much less damage to the environment. Due to the harmful effects of plastic containers such as plates, trays, and cups, the rigid food containers market may be hampered in the upcoming years.
Principal Consultant
The global market recorded a CAGR of 1% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. Market growth of rigid food containers was positive as it reached a value of USD 176.1 billion in 2023 from USD 167.8 billion in 2019.
The rigid food containers market is expected to rise due to its ability to store, pack and deliver variety of food products at the same time ensuring their purity.
The rigid food containers are available in different size and types such as bottles, cups, trays and clamshells, plates, bowls and many others for storing hot, cold, and liquid and many other types of foods as per the need of the end users. They are used most often for packaging fresh foods including meat, poultry, sea food, and dairy products.
The development of new food products by various global food manufacturers creates a growth opportunity for the global rigid food containers market. Furthermore, the innovation and adoption of sustainable materials by rigid food container manufacturers supplement the demand for rigid food containers for various food applications.
Tier 1 companies comprise market leaders with a market revenue of above USD 600 million capturing significant market share of 10% to 15% in global market. These market leaders are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio.
These market leaders are distinguished by their extensive expertise in manufacturing across multiple packaging formats and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base. They provide a wide range of series including recycling and manufacturing utilizing the latest technology and meeting the regulatory standards providing the highest quality.
Prominent companies within tier 1 include Amcor Plc, Pactiv Evergreen Inc., Berry Global Group, Inc., Huhtamäki Oyj, Sonoco Products Company and Sabert Corporation.
Tier 2 companies include mid-size players with revenue of USD 200 to 600 million having presence in specific regions and highly influencing the local market. These are characterized by a strong presence overseas and strong market knowledge.
These market players have good technology and ensure regulatory compliance but may not have advanced technology and wide global reach. Prominent companies in tier 2 include Georgia-Pacific LLC, Dispo International, PRINTED CUP COMPANY, Lollicup USA Inc., Genpak, Sabert Corporation, Clearwater Paper Corporation, Kari-Out Co. and WestRock Company.
Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche markets having revenue below USD 200 million. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local market demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment.
They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 3, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized market, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and formalization when compared to organized competitors.
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The section below covers the future forecast for rigid food containers market in terms of countries. Information on key countries in several parts of the globe, including North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Eastern Europe, Western Europe and MEA is provided. India is anticipated to remain at the forefront in South Asia and Pacific, with a CAGR of 4.1% through 2034.
In East Asia, China is projected to witness a CAGR of 3.7% by 2034, leaving behind South Korea at 2.2%.
| Countries | Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) |
|---|---|
| India | 4.1% |
| Spain | 2.1% |
| Italy | 1.2% |
| China | 3.7% |
| South Korea | 2.2% |
| USA | 0.5% |
| Germany | 0.4% |
The rigid food containers industry in India is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 70.3 billion over the forecast period. The country is anticipated to grow at rate of 4.1% till 2034.
According to the Packaging Industry Association of India (PIAI), among all industries the packaging industry has registered a CAGR of 26.7% in between 2020 and 2025 and is expected to account for USD 204.81 billion by the end of 2025.
The packaging industry is growing in India due to the usage of packaging prominently in food and beverage industry. Packaging is one of the deciding factors for the maintenance of the quality, purity and freshness of the food products.
Rigid containers have proven to be very beneficial for storing and packaging food products to increase their shelf life and reach the customers as per the expectations. Due to high population growth and increasing need for sturdy and barrier resistance packaging solutions there has been demand for rigid food containers in India.
The USA is projected to showcase a CAGR of 0.5% in the forecast period. The retail industry growth in the USA is the most important factor, as it drives sales of packaged food items as well as fresh foods. All these consumables are mostly packed in rigid packaging solutions to keep them fresh and offer a longer shelf life of the product to the retailers.
As per the study of, The Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce, the USA retail sector showcased growth in the first half of 2024 by 2.1% as compared to that of 2023 and accounted for almost USD 1,820.0 billion.
The retail industry includes physical retail such as shops, malls and outlets and e-commerce retail which includes retail conducted online through websites and platforms. Both of the cases require high storage of a variety of food products, to satisfy the demand of consumers on time and promptly.
To store food products in large quantities, rigid food containers are for used this purpose, rigid food containers have excellent sturdiness, strength, tamper-evident and barrier features, ensuring the products are not damaged in any case and reach to the customer in the perfect condition. Thus, the booming retail industry will also boost the rigid food containers market in the USA.
Germany is projected to showcase a CAGR of 0.4% in the forecast period. The growing food industry in the country is projected to play a significant role in pushing demand for rigid food containers for effective packaging solutions. As per the report of the United States Department of Agriculture in 2022, the food processing sector accounted for USD 239 billion almost 5.8% of the total GDP of the country.
The food industry in Germany is expanding on a large scale, thus there is a necessity for efficient packaging solutions. With the growth in the food industry, there has also been diversity among product offerings such as fresh produce, dairy, meats, and processed food.
With the rise in awareness regarding public health and to properly pack, store and transport these food products, there has been a huge demand for rigid packaging solutions. Variety of rigid packaging containers are thus used for the packaging of the above products. Due to these factors, the demand for rigid food containers is expected to boost in the upcoming years.
The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. In terms of material, plastic is estimated to account for a share of 46.3% by 2024. By packaging format, trays and clamshells have projected to dominate by holding a share of 28.2% by the end 2034.
| Material | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Value CAGR (2034) | 1.7% |
Plastic among other materials is expected to lead the rigid food containers market during the forecast period with a market share of 46.3% by 2034.
Several materials are used for making rigid food containers which include plastic, paper and metal. Among these plastic is used more often because of its advantages over other materials. Plastic is known for its versatility to be molded in any shape and size as per the requirement of the consumers.
Also, several types of plastic are used for making rigid containers such as polyethylene, propylene, polyethylene terephthalate and other bioplastics. Plastic is highly durable and resistant to breakage, thus guaranteeing safe packaging and transport of food products.
Also plastic offers transparency, which creates a sense of trust among customers as they can see the products and can easily detect any contaminated or spoiled product. Some of the food follows stringent safety and regulatory standards, which in turn prove to be sustainable. Due to these advantages over other materials, plastic is the most preferred choice for rigid food containers.
| Packaging Format | Trays and Clamshells |
|---|---|
| Value CAGR (2034) | 2.2% |
Trays and clamshells among other packaging formats are expected to dominate the rigid food containers market in the assessment period with a market share of 28.2% by 2034.
Trays and clamshells are used for a variety of food products which include salads, sandwiches, bakery products like cookies, muffins, freshly precut fruits and vegetables, ready-to-eat meals and some frozen foods. Trays and clamshells possess extra sealing features with secured lids or closures and offer better stack ability and storage efficiency which leads to maximum storage capacity for high-portion foods.
They can be customized with branding, labels, and design elements, thus many food companies choose trays for the packaging of several food products.
They are also cost-effective as compared to glass and metal containers, thus being an ideal option for small or medium-sized businesses that are aiming cost a sensitive approach in their packaging solutions. As they can customized, they can be used as a tool for brand marketing for food manufacturing brands. These factors are expected to push the demand for trays and clamshells in the rigid food containers market.
Key players of rigid food containers industry are developing and launching new products in the market. They are integrating with different firms and extending their geographical presence. Few of them are also collaborating and partnering with local brands and start-up companies for new product development.
Key Developments in Rigid Food Containers Market
In terms of material, the industry is divided in plastic, paper and metal. The plastic material is further sub-categorized into polyethylene (PE), propylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), bioplastics and others (PA, EVOH, etc.). Also paper is sub-segmented ahead into corrugated board, specialty papers, boxboard/carton board, kraft papers and molded pulp
Few of the important distribution channels include direct sales, distributors and e-retail. The distributors are further segmented into brick and mortar, hypermarkets, supermarkets, discount stores and other retail.
Some of the important packaging formats include trays and clamshells, plates and bowls, cups and tubs, boxes, single serve portion packs and cans
Some of end users related to rigid food containers market include restaurants, hotels and lodgings, food courts (in malls, airports, multiplexes railways, etc.), online food delivery and others (hospitals, schools, offices, etc.). The restaurants are sub-categorized into full service restaurants (FSR), quick service restaurants (QSR), catering services and others (café, pub, bar, etc.)
Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa are covered.
The rigid food containers industry is projected to witness CAGR of 1.9% between 2024 and 2034.
The global rigid food containers industry stood at USD 176.1 billion in 2023.
Global rigid food containers industry is anticipated to reach USD 217.2 billion by 2034 end.
South Asia is set to record a CAGR of 5.8% in assessment period.
The key players operating in the rigid food containers industry are Amcor Plc, Pactiv Evergreen Inc., Berry Global Group, Inc., Huhtamäki Oyj, Sonoco Products Company and Sabert Corporation.
1. Executive Summary
2. Industry Introduction
2.1. Market Taxonomy
2.2. Market Definition
3. Market Trends and Success Factors
4. Market Background
4.1. Macro-economic and Industry Outlook
4.2. Market Dynamics
4.3. Value Chain Analysis
4.4. List of Key Market Participants (Manufacturers/Channel Partners)
4.5. Analysis of Key Industry Matrices
4.6. Industry Development Roadmap
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 Material
8.1. Plastic
8.1.1. Polyethylene (PE)
8.1.2. Propylene (PP)
8.1.3. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
8.1.4. Bioplastics
8.1.5. Others (PA, EVOH, etc.)
8.2. Paper
8.2.1. Corrugated Board
8.2.2. Specialty Papers
8.2.3. Boxboard/Carton Board
8.2.4. Kraft Papers
8.2.5. Molded Pulp
8.3. Metal
9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Distribution Channel
9.1. Direct Sales
9.2. Distributors
9.2.1. Brick and Mortar
9.2.2. Hypermarkets
9.2.3. Supermarkets
9.2.4. Discount Stores
9.2.5. Other Retail
9.3. E-retail
10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Packaging Format
10.1. Trays and Clamshells
10.2. Plates and Bowls
10.3. Cups and Tubs
10.4. Boxes
10.5. Single serve Portion Packs
10.6. Cans
11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by End Use
11.1. Restaurants
11.1.1. Full service restaurants (FSR)
11.1.2. Quick service restaurants (QSR)
11.1.3. Catering Services
11.1.4. Others (Café, Pub, Bar, etc.)
11.2. Hotels and Lodgings
11.3. Food Courts (In malls, Airports, Multiplexes Railways, etc.)
11.4. Online Food Delivery
11.5. Others (Hospitals, Schools, offices, etc.)
12. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Region
12.1. North America
12.2. Latin America
12.3. East Asia
12.4. South Asia & Pacific
12.5. Western Europe
12.6. Eastern Europe
12.7. MEA
13. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market and Country
14. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
15. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
16. South Asia & Pacific Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
17. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
18. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
19. Middle East and Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
20. Sales Analysis 2024 & 2034 by Key Market Segments for 30 Countries
21. Competition Outlook including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
22. Company Profile
22.1. Amcor plc
22.2. Stora Enso Oyj
22.3. ENPAK ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
22.4. Vegware (Novolex)
22.5. Sonoco Products Company
22.6. Pactiv Evergreen Inc. (Two Mitts, Inc.)
22.7. Berry Global Group, Inc.
22.8. Huhtamäki Oyj
22.9. Colpac Limited
22.10. Georgia-Pacific LLC
22.11. Dispo International
22.12. PRINTED CUP COMPANY
22.13. Lollicup USA Inc.
22.14. Genpak
22.15. Sabert Corporation
22.16. Clearwater Paper Corporation
22.17. Kari-Out Co.
22.18. WestRock Company.
22.19. BioMass Packaging
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Rigid Food Containers Market
