The global rigid tray market size is estimated to reach USD 11.5 billion in 2024. Displaying a CAGR of 2.2% through 2034, the industry is slated to be worth USD 14.3 billion by the forecast period. In 2023, the industry was valued at USD 11.2 billion.
Growing demand for efficient food packaging solutions around the industrial world is the prime growth factor influencing the market. Businesses are also preferring these trays as they enhance the overall shelf life of their product offerings. With the increasing focus of multinational companies to expand their geographical reach, rigid boxes are being highly sought after.
The exponential growth of the cosmetics and personal care sector in countries like India, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, etc., is also generating excellent demand for these trays as they are one of the most crucial components in packaging skincare products and makeup kits.
With the general populace becoming more conscious about their looks and the emphasis on Western beauty standards in Asian countries, the demand for rigid trays is set to experience a surge.
Rigid Tray Industry Assessment
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Historical Size, 2023 | USD 11.2 billion |
| Estimated Size, 2024 | USD 11.5 billion |
| Projected Size, 2034 | USD 14.3 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 2.2% |
Rigid trays also find their applications in the food and beverage packaging sector. Their demand in these industries is primarily due to their use in wrapping fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, etc.
The proliferation of last-mile food delivery services in underdeveloping and developing parts of the world is also a major driver for the rigid tray market. Besides this, these trays are also demanded in bakery and confectionery packaging to ship cakes, pastries, chocolates, etc.
The global pharmaceutical sector, in the past couple of years, has seen tremendous development. Rigid plastic trays also find their place in this sector as companies involved in the manufacturing of medical equipment use rigid boxes to ensure safe, sterile, and organized packaging and transportation of sensitive instruments and devices.
In countries like India, the United States, China, etc., an overwhelming demand for these trays is observed in the pharma and medicare sectors.
A significant number of businesses in the agricultural sector are also opting for these trays as an alternative to traditional packaging methods like cardboard boxes and wooden crates to enhance the protection, freshness, and presentation of fruits and vegetables during transportation and storage.
Their demand in the industrial components sector in countries like Japan, South Korea, China, etc., during the final stages of manufacturing hardware and automotive parts is also positively contributing to the market.
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The table below illustrates the predicted CAGR for the global rigid tray market across various semi-annual periods from 2024 to 2034. The market is expected to experience a plunge, with a CAGR of 1.9%, during the first half (H1) of the decade from 2024 to 2029. However, it is anticipated to plunge and grow at a marginal rate of 2.3% in the second half (H2) of the decade from 2029 to 2034.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 2.4% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 1.8% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 1.9% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 2.3% (2024 to 2034) |
From H1 2023 to H2 2033, the CAGR is expected to slightly increase to 2.4% in the first half and then remain relatively stable at 1.8% in the second half. The market is very likely to remain constant with a retention of 60 basis points (BPS).
Demand for Sustainable Packaging Paves the Way for Rigid Tray Market Growth
There has been a noticeable surge in the demand for trays made from sustainable materials such as biodegradable plastics, recycled paper, and plant-based fibers. These trays are gaining popularity not just among eco-conscious consumers but also among businesses.
Packaging companies across domains are becoming enamored of these trays as they help them reduce their carbon footprint while giving a sophisticated feeling to the end users. Governments of several countries are also increasingly promoting these initiatives which has further helped the market grow.
Smart Packaging Solutions to Gain Significant Edge
With technological advancements changing the industrial world, there is an influx of a multitude of innovations in this market too. Companies involved in the manufacturing of rigid trays are incorporating QR codes, RFID tags, and NFC chips to offer enhanced traceability, product information, and interactivity.
These integrations have accelerated the adoption of these trays in a broad spectrum of industries. Temperature and humidity sensors are also game changers in this industry.
High Costs of Rigid Trays Act as a Significant Barrier to Progress
Small-scale businesses are wary of making a dent in their financial pools to package their product offerings in rigid boxes and trays. Manufacturers are thus opting for biodegradable materials in the making of rigid boxes or trays.
This has put tremendous pressure on them price-wise, which has hampered the adoption of these trays. Meanwhile, disposal concerns and the waste generated by these trays after the end of their lifecycle are also proving to be major deterrents for businesses in using these trays in their packaging.
Principal Consultant
The rigid tray industry size was tipped to be USD 10.4 billion in 2019. Throughout the historical period, the sector grew at a CAGR of 1.5%, reaching a size of USD 11.2 billion in 2023.
The pandemic in this period meant that businesses across domains were shut down. The trade routes were also closed by the governments which created substantial challenges for companies involved in the packaging sector.
The demand for rigid boxes or trays in this period also took a huge blow as war-like situations emerged in the European and Middle East countries. The market only began to pick some pace in the later stages of the pandemic as the pharma industry began to expand exponentially.
With the revival of the food and beverage industry, the demand for these trays also skyrocketed. Online food delivery platforms soon began to gain prominence where these trays are utilized the most.
Even in the consumer goods sector, these trays became an essential part of keeping the contents safe and damage-proof during transit. Driven by the advancements in sustainable packaging and the adoption of smart packaging solutions, the market for these trays is set to surge in the coming years.
Tier one companies like Amcor Plc, Berry Global Group, Inc., and Sealed Air Corporation are at the forefront of innovation in the rigid tray market. These companies are heavily investing in sustainable packaging solutions.
They are also focusing on integrating advanced manufacturing technologies, such as automation and digital printing, to enhance customization and efficiency. Some of them are also pioneering smart packaging solutions, incorporating technologies like RFID tags and QR codes into their trays for enhanced traceability and consumer interaction.
Tier two companies such as Sonoco Products Company, Huhtamaki Oyj, and RPC Group Plc are also making significant strides in niche areas to differentiate themselves. Companies in this tier are leveraging their extensive expertise in material science to develop lightweight yet durable trays that reduce transportation costs and environmental impact.
They are also focusing on expanding their global footprint to cater to diverse markets. These companies are also concentrating on design innovation, creating aesthetically pleasing and functional tray designs that enhance product appeal on retail shelves.
Tier three companies like Genpak, LLC, Pactiv LLC, and Placon Corporation are focusing on agility and customer-centric approaches to stand out in the market.
Companies are enhancing their product range with microwaveable and oven-safe rigid trays, catering to the growing demand for convenience in food packaging. These companies are also capitalizing on their extensive distribution network to ensure timely delivery and availability of their trays across various regions.
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Growth in e-commerce and the expansion of retail chains in countries like China, India, and Japan are enhancing the accessibility of rigid trays in the Asia Pacific. Besides this, the automation drive in Europe, with the advent of Industry 4.0, has also contributed to the global market positively. In the North American continent, Canada and the United States are some of the leading countries in this industry.
| Countries | Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) |
|---|---|
| Canada | 0.4% |
| The United States | 0.7% |
| Germany | 0.5% |
| India | 5.1% |
| Thailand | 4% |
| South Korea | 2.9% |
| China | 4.5% |
| The United Kingdom | 0.8% |
India’s rigid tray industry is poised to record a CAGR of 5.1% through 2034. The market in India is experiencing rapid growth primarily due to the booming food and beverage industry.
This is primarily due to the increasing urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles among the general populace. The rise in disposable incomes has also led to higher demand for packaged and ready-to-eat meals, necessitating reliable and attractive packaging solutions.
The expansion of the pharmaceutical sector, spurred by the government's initiatives to boost healthcare infrastructure and local manufacturing, is also increasing the need for these trays. Besides this, initiatives like ‘Make in India’ have brought automated production methods to the industrial landscape which has accelerated the manufacturing of these trays in India.
The sector is set to register a CAGR of 4.5% over the forecast period in China, making it a highly fertile country for the industry. In China, the growth of the market is largely driven by the country's robust e-commerce and online food delivery sectors.
With a massive consumer base and increasing internet penetration, there is a high demand for secure and durable trays to protect products during transit. The government's focus on improving food safety standards is also propelling the use of rigid trays, which offer superior protection and hygiene for food products.
China's strong manufacturing capabilities and advancements in technology are also enabling local companies to produce high-quality rigid trays at competitive prices. This is aiding the market's expansion both domestically and internationally.
The United States industry is expected to register a CAGR of 0.7% over the forecast period. Sustainability has received increased importance in the nation as the population becomes more eco-friendly. The extensive growth of online grocery shopping and food delivery services is boosting the demand for robust and reliable packaging solutions.
The rigid tray market in the United States is also expanding due to the increasing preference for convenience and ready-to-eat foods among busy consumers. The stringent regulatory standards for food and pharmaceutical packaging in the United States are driving the adoption of high-quality rigid trays that ensure safety and compliance.
The rising awareness and demand for sustainable packaging solutions are also influencing the market, with consumers and businesses seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic trays.
The section below offers in-depth insights into leading segments. The single cavity is the top product in this industry. The commercial sector is where the product‘s use is zapping along.
By product, the market is bifurcated into single and multiple cavities. As of 2024, the tin segment holds a market share of 57.2%.
| Product | Single Cavity |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 57.2% |
Single-cavity rigid trays are in demand due to their simplicity and versatility. They are also easier to produce and offer a straightforward solution for packaging individual items, making them ideal for a wide range of products. The clamor for these trays is also touching the skies as they provide better protection for larger or delicate items compared to multiple cavity trays.
In the industrial world, the need for efficient and secure packaging for components and tools is accelerating their adoption. Their robust construction ensures product safety during transport and storage, reducing damage and loss.
Rigid Trays, based on end use, are classified into manufacturing, commercial, institutional, and household. The commercial segment holds a share of 45.9%, as of 2024.
| End Use | Commercial |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 45.9% |
Rigid trays, in the past few years, have successfully found their place in the commercial sector as they are considered ideal for packaging, transporting, and displaying products securely and attractively.
Food packaging for ready-to-eat meals, pharmaceuticals for safe transport of medical devices, and electronics for protecting gadgets during shipping are also some of the main drivers for their adoption. Rigid trays are also being increasingly used in the commercial sector due to their durability, protection, and versatility.
Industries are generating tremendous demand due to the rise in online food delivery, stringent safety standards, and robust packaging to prevent damage during transit.
The competitive landscape of the rigid tray industry is fragmented in nature. Low barriers to entry and the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions fuel the competitiveness in the sector. Leading players are constantly introducing new products in innovative packaging to attract consumers.
Several players are also locking horns with big giants by using excessive branding strategies. Companies also use mergers, partnerships, acquisitions, and distribution agreements to stay ahead of the competition.
Some of the most prominent companies in the industry are Amcor Limited, DS Smith Plc, Berry Plastics Corporation, Klöckner Pentaplas, and Plastipak Holdings, Inc.
Recent Developments
The rigid tray market can be segmented based on product type, material, sales channel, and end use.
Product segmentation includes single-cavity and multiple-cavity trays.
Material segmentation encompasses plastic, paper, and aluminum trays.
Sales channels are categorized into direct sales, distributors, brick-and-mortar stores, and e-retail platforms.
End use segmentation covers manufacturing, commercial, institutional, and household sectors.
Key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Oceania have been covered in the report.
The global valuation is USD 11.5 billion as of 2024.
The market is expected to reach USD 14.3 billion by 2034.
The market is rising at a CAGR of 2.2% from 2024 to 2034.
Amcor Limited, DS Smith Plc, Berry Plastics Corporation, and Klöckner Pentaplas.
In 2023, the global market was valued at USD 11.2 billion.
1. Executive Summary 2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition 3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments 4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections 5. Pricing Analysis 6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034 6.1. Product Type 6.2. Size 6.3. Material Used 6.4. End-Use Industry 7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product Type 7.1. Plastic Rigid Trays 7.2. Metal Rigid Trays 8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Size 8.1. D1 Range 8.2. D2 Range 8.3. D13 Range 8.4. D15 Range 8.5. D18 Range 8.6. Others 9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Material Used 9.1. PP (Polypropylene) 9.2. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) 9.3. RPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate) 9.4. HDPE (High-density Polyethylene) 9.5. HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene Sheet) 9.6. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) 9.7. LDPE (Low-density Polyethylene) 9.8. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) 9.9. Others 10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End-Use Industry 10.1. Pharmaceutical Industry 10.2. Food & Beverage Industry 10.3. Electrical and Electronics Industry 10.4. Consumer Goods Industry 10.5. Health Care Industry 10.6. Others 11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region 11.1. North America 11.2. Latin America 11.3. Western Europe 11.4. South Asia 11.5. East Asia 11.6. Eastern Europe 11.7. Middle East & Africa 12. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 13. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 14. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 15. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 16. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 17. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 18. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 19. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Product Type, Size, Material Used, and End-Use Industry for 30 Countries 20. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard 21. Company Profile 21.1. Klockner Pentaplast 21.2. ALPLA 21.3. Amcor Limited 21.4. DS Smith Plc 21.5. Berry Plastics Corporation 21.6. Plastipak Holdings, Inc. 21.7. Pactiv Evergreen Inc. 21.8. Sealed Air Corporation 21.9. Silgan Holdings, Inc. 21.10. Sonoco Products Company
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Rigid Tray Market
