Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The global thin-wall plastic container market is expected to be valued at USD 35,735 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 54,315 million by 2034. The thin wall container market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period. The revenue generated by thin wall plastic containers in 2023 was USD 33,877 million and is anticipated to exhibit a y-o-y growth of 5.2% in 2024.

Attributes Key Insights
Base Value, 2023 USD 33,877 million
Estimated Global Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Size (2024E) USD 35,735 million
Projected Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Value (2034F) USD 54,315 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 4.8%

The market for thin-walled plastic containers is expanding rapidly due to the food and beverages sector’s exponential growth. Foods, snacks, dairy goods, and beverages are all packaged extensively in thin-walled plastic containers. They are easy to handle, convenient, and can be made to fit a variety of product shapes and sizes.

Compared to alternatives, thin wall plastic containers are made using lighter materials and thinner walls. This design optimization makes them more cost-effective and lightweight, suitable for the ‘on-to-go’ food trend.

Thin wall plastic containers are also used in the pharmaceutical and personal care sectors, where it is crucial to have lightweight packaging with adequate strength and barrier qualities. Thin walls and lightweight containers are set to lower the material and shipping costs, thereby increasing cost-effectiveness in the market.

Several thin-wall plastic containers are made with recyclable materials to address environmental concerns and are built with sustainability in mind. Shapes, sizes, and labeling of the containers can be altered to match individual product requirements and provide brand distinctiveness.

Manufacturers are investigating recyclable and environmentally friendly materials for thin-wall plastic containers as part of a movement toward more environmentally friendly practices. Ongoing research & development aims to create novel materials with enhanced environmental sustainability and barrier qualities.

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2019 to 2023 Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Sales Outlook Vs. 2024 to 2034

The global market for thin-walled plastic containers recorded a CAGR of 4.2% from 2019 to 2023. The market was valued at USD 33,877 million in 2023 from USD 28,994 million in 2019.

Over the past several years, there has been a significant increase in the market for thin-wall plastic containers. The food & beverage industry has been putting more demand on thin-walled plastic containers. End-user companies in this industry prefer them because of their outstanding barrier qualities and hygienic sealing.

The plastic packaging sector, which includes thin-wall plastic containers, has made sustainability a key priority. Recyclable and biodegradable plastics are examples of sustainable materials that manufacturers have begun investigating and using to meet consumer demands and address environmental issues.

The efficiency and economics of making thin-walled plastic containers have increased due to developments in injection molding technology and other manufacturing techniques. The use of robotics and automation to improve manufacturing capacities has grown.

The exceptional features of thin-wall plastic containers, such as temperature resistance, impact resistance, transparency, lightweight, and affordability, make them an ideal choice for packaging applications. Spurred by the expansion of the bakery, retail, and ready-to-eat food industries, the demand for thin-walled plastic containers is expected to witness substantial growth over the forecast period.

Key Trends Impacting Global Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Growth

  • As e-commerce grows, so does the need for packaging options to survive the rigors of transporting products online. Plastic thin-wall containers are being modified to satisfy the unique needs of e-commerce packaging, including protection and durability.
  • To differentiate themselves in the marketplace, brands seek distinctive and adaptable packaging solutions. Thin-wall plastic containers, enabling brands to set themselves apart from the competition, provide innovative size, form, and labeling options.
  • One key area of focus for manufacturers in the market is enhancing barrier qualities, such as moisture and oxygen resistance. This is particularly crucial for product shelf life extension and the packaging of perishable items.
Ismail Sutaria
Ismail Sutaria

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Restraining Factors in Thin Wall Plastic Container Market

  • Plastic packaging is being scrutinized as people become more conscious of environmental problems and the effects of plastic waste. Due to the high demand from the plastic packaging sector to embrace more sustainable methods, this is set to cause issues for the thin-wall plastic container industry.
  • Manufacturers of thin-wall plastic containers are expected to have fewer options if there are tight laws and restrictions on specific types of plastic materials, particularly those seen as environmentally damaging or difficult to recycle.
  • As sustainability is gaining traction, several firms and customers are looking for eco-friendly packaging alternatives, including paper-based packaging, bio-based plastics, or other options. This change is set to impact the market for plastic containers with thin walls.

Semi-annual Market Update

The table presents the expected CAGR for the thin wall plastic container market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2023 to 2033. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2023 to 2033, the market is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 4.4%, followed by a lower growth rate of 3.7% in the second half (H2) of the same decade. Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to decrease slightly to 3.3% in the first half and to expand at 4.1% in the second half.

Particular Value CAGR
H1 4.4% (2023 to 2033)
H2 3.7% (2023 to 2033)
H1 3.3% (2024 to 2034)
H2 4.1% (2024 to 2034)

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Category-wise Insights

The below section shows the polypropylene segment dominating by material type. It is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 4.4% by 2034. Based on application type, the dairy product segment is anticipated to generate a dominant share through 2024. It is set to rise at a 4.5% CAGR by 2034.

Polypropylene Material to Gain High Popularity by 2034

Material Type Value CAGR
Polypropylene 4.4%

Polypropylene is being prominently employed in thin-wall plastic containers and is anticipated to hold 1/3rd of the market share in 2024. Polypropylene is a lightweight material offering high strength and stiffness, which makes it an ideal option for food, beverage, and other consumer products.

Polypropylene also provides excellent impact resistance, durability, heat resistance, and chemical resistance, leading to its enhanced applications in the thin-wall plastic container market. Polystyrene is set to expand at a significant CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period.

Dairy Products to Capture a Significant Market Share by 2034

Application Value CAGR
Dairy Products 4.5%

With the food & beverages and consumer goods industries growing at a substantial rate, the demand for advanced and sustainable packaging is also surging. The need of the hour is for lightweight packaging, with demand for the same increasing across several industries. The need to meet the demands of catering and retail companies is pushing thin-wall plastic container manufacturers to intensify their production capacity and set up new plants.

Country-wise Insights

The below table shows the estimated growth rates of the leading countries. Brazil, China, and South Africa are set to record high CAGRs of 6.2%, 6.2%, and 6.7%, respectively, through 2034.

Country Value (CAGR)
United States 3.4%
Brazil 6.2%
Mexico 5.0%
Germany 3.1%
France 4.2%
China 6.2%
India 5.6%
South Africa 6.7%

Rising Food and Beverage Industry in China to Propel Sales

In China, food and beverage packaging is done using thin-walled plastic containers. These containers are set to be widely used because of their ease of use, portability, and suitability for several products.

The production of thin-walled plastic containers reflects China's reputation for technological innovation. Automation and injection molding technologies have been continuously improving, which has increased productivity and improved product quality.

China boasts an extremely complex and modern packaging sector, which includes thin-walled plastic containers. Superior manufacturing technology, strict quality controls, and a focus on new product development are advantageous to the market.

China has seen a rise in the emphasis on sustainability, in line with general trends. Producers are exploring and implementing eco-friendly materials & recycling activities to address environmental concerns, which is influencing the thin-wall plastic container industry.

Rise of Retail and E-commerce Industries to Uplift Brazil’s Market

Brazil is known for its stringent quality standards and regulations, particularly in sectors such as medicines and food. Producers of thin-walled plastic containers follow these guidelines to guarantee the security and compatibility of their goods for several uses.

Brazil's retail environment, which is typified by a high concentration of convenience stores, is shaping consumer preferences for packaging. Plastic containers with thin walls are preferred as they are convenient, look good on shelves, and can be consumed on the go.

As the population ages, there is an increasing need for packaging solutions that meet the needs of senior citizens. This movement is set to influence thin-wall plastic container designs and operations in demographics in Brazil.

Rising Demand for Sustainable Packaging in the United States to Augment Sales

The packaging sector in the United States prioritizes innovation, which also applies to plastic containers with thin walls. Manufacturers are always experimenting with novel materials, designs, and technologies to satisfy consumer expectations for ease of use, sustainability, and product uniqueness.

The United States packaging sector is paying increasing attention to sustainability, in line with general global trends. Using recyclable materials, lessening the impact on the environment, and catering to customer preferences for eco-friendly packaging are all included in this.

In the United States, the food and beverage sector significantly uses thin-wall plastic containers. Their large market share results from the packaging of goods, including dairy products, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and beverages for which these containers are used.

Competitive Landscape

Thin-wall plastic container manufacturers are developing innovative designs catering to specific products or applications. Leading players in the market are expanding their presence and manufacturing capabilities. They are moving toward adopting and offering sustainable solutions to customers.

Companies are further expanding by integrating with diverse forms and collaborating to develop designs and products. Recent activities and developments implemented by leading players in the market are:

  • In November 2023, SABIC & CJ CHEILJEDANG collaborated on the world's first ready-to-eat rice packaging bowls made with 25% certified renewable PP in Korea.
  • In September 2022, Ball Corporation and Boomerang Water LLC announced an alliance to bring consumers a sustainable way to stay hydrated.

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Estimated Value (2024) USD 35,735 million
Projected Value (2034) USD 54,315 million
Anticipated Growth Rate (2024 to 2034) CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2034
Base Year for Estimation 2023
Historical Data 2019 to 2023
Forecast Period 2024 to 2034
Quantitative Unit Revenue in USD million, Volume in Units, and CAGR from 2024 to 2034
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis
Segments Covered Product, Material, Manufacturing Technology, Application, Region
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Asia Pacific excluding Japan; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; Middle East and Africa; Japan
Key Companies Profiled Ball Corporation; Double H Plastics, Inc.; ACMEPAK PLASTIC PACKAGING, LTD.; Sem Plastik; RPC Group plc; Mold-Tek Packaging Limited (MTPL); ENGEL AUSTRIA GmbH; D K Industries; Metro Valves; Insta Polypack; Zhejiang Shenghui Kitchenware Co., Ltd.; Taizhou Kaiji Plastic Mould Co., Ltd.; Guangdong Happy Home Plastic Co., Ltd.; Shantou Gepai Environmental Technology Co., Ltd.; Dongguan Invotive Plastic Products Co., Ltd.; Sunrise Plastics Ltd.; Borouge; SABIC; Exxon Mobil Corporation; The Dow Chemical Company

Global Thin Wall Plastic Container Market Segmentation by Category

By Product:

  • Boxes and Bins
  • Trays
  • Cups
  • Lids
  • Thin Wall Pails
  • Bowls

By Material:

  • Polypropylene (PP)
  • Polystyrene (PS)
  • Polyethylene (PE)
    • High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
    • Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE)
  • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

By Manufacturing Technology:

  • Thermoformed
  • Vacuum Formed Technology
  • Injection Molded Technology
  • Others

By Application:

  • Dairy Products
  • Frozen Food
  • Fruits and Vegetables
  • Bakery and Confectionery
  • Juices and Soups
  • Meat, Seafood, and Poultry
  • Ready-to-eat Meals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Personal Care and Cosmetics
  • Paints, Lubricants, and Adhesives

By Region:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the thin-wall plastic container market?

The market is set to reach USD 35,735 million in 2024.

What is the forecast for the thin wall plastic container market?

Demand for thin wall plastic containers is slated to expand at a 4.8% CAGR by 2034.

What is the outlook for the thin wall plastic container market?

The market is set to reach USD 54,315 million by 2034.

Who are the key players in the thin wall plastic container market?

Ball Corporation, Double H Plastics, Inc., and Sem Plastik are the key players.

Which material type would lead the thin wall plastic container market?

Polypropylene segment is estimated to lead the market in 2024.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Introduction
	3. Market Viewpoint
	4. Global Market Analysis By Region
		4.1. North America
		4.2. Latin America
		4.3. Asia Pacific excluding Japan
		4.4. Western Europe
		4.5. Eastern Europe
		4.6. Japan
		4.7. Middle East and Africa
	5. Global Market Analysis By Product Type
		5.1. Boxes and Bins
		5.2. Trays
		5.3. Cups
		5.4. Lids
		5.5. Thin Wall Pails
		5.6. Bowls
	6. Global Market Analysis By Material Type
		6.1. Polypropylene (PP)
		6.2. Polystyrene (PS)
		6.3. Polyethylene (PE)
			6.3.1. High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
			6.3.2. Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE)
		6.4. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
	7. Global Market Analysis By Manufacturing Technology
		7.1. Thermoformed
		7.2. Vacuum Formed Technology
		7.3. Injection Moulded Technology
		7.4. Others
	8. Global Market Analysis By Application Type
		8.1. Dairy Products
		8.2. Frozen Food
		8.3. Fruit and Vegetables
		8.4. Bakery and Confectionery
		8.5. Juices and Soups
		8.6. Meat, Seafood, and Poultry
		8.7. Ready-to-eat Meals
		8.8. Pharmaceuticals
		8.9. Personal Care and Cosmetics
		8.10. Paints, Lubricants, and Adhesives
	9. North America Market Analysis
	10. Asia Pacific excluding Japan Market Analysis
	11. Western Europe Market Analysis
	12. Eastern Europe Market Analysis
	13. Latin America Market Analysis
	14. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis
	15. Japan Market Analysis
	16. Competition Landscape
		16.1. Ball Corporation
		16.2. ACMEPAK PLASTIC PACKAGING, LTD.
		16.3. Sem Plastik
		16.4. RPC Group plc
		16.5. Mold-Tek Packaging Limited (MTPL)
		16.6. ENGEL AUSTRIA GmbH
		16.7. D K Industries
		16.8. Metro Valves (India)
		16.9. Insta Polypack (India)
		16.10. Zhejiang Shenghui Kitchenware Co., Ltd.
		16.11. Taizhou Kaiji Plastic Mould Co., Ltd.
		16.12. Guangdong Happy Home Plastic Co., Ltd.
		16.13. Shantou Gepai Environmental Technology Co., Ltd.
		16.14. Dongguan Invotive Plastic Products Co., Ltd.
		16.15. Sunrise Plastics Ltd.
		16.16. Borouge
		16.17. SABIC
		16.18. Exxon Mobil Corporation
		16.19. The Dow Chemical Company
		16.20. Double H Plastics, Inc.
	17. Research Methodology
	18. Assumptions and Acronyms
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