The United Kingdom Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Packaging Type (Plastic, Paper, Container Glass, Metal Cans), Packaging Format (Flexible, Rigid), End-Use Industry (Food, Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Industrial, E-Commerce). Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Market Overview: The United Kingdom packaging market is estimated to reach a value of 59.59 million by 2025, exhibiting a steady CAGR of 2.27% during 2023-2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions across various end-user verticals, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The rising consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging materials, such as paper and glass, is further fueling market expansion. Moreover, the advancements in flexible packaging technology, such as the development of biodegradable and recyclable materials, are creating new opportunities for market participants. Segments and Trends: Within the packaging market, flexible plastic dominates the material type segment due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and lightweight properties. Rigid plastic packaging, including bottles and trays, holds a significant share owing to its durability and ability to protect products from damage. The end-user market is segmented into various sectors, with food, beverage, and healthcare accounting for a major portion. The increasing demand for packaged food and beverages, driven by e-commerce and the growing convenience trend, is supporting market growth. Additionally, the healthcare industry's need for secure and tamper-proof packaging for pharmaceuticals and medical devices is contributing to market expansion. Recent developments include: July 2022 - Flexible packaging provider ProAmpac introduced ProActivePCR Retort pouches in response to the rising market need for post-consumer recycled (PCR) packaging solutions. The pouches are intended for packaging pet and human food and are FDA and EU-approved for food contact in retort applications. They offer a 30% percentage or greater PCR content by weight, reducing the use of virgin resins in the packaging. In addition, these innovative pouches comply with the United Kingdom (UK) Plastics Packaging Tax (PPT)., May 2022 - As a part of the United Kingdom Research and Innovation's (UKRI) Smart Sustainable Plastic Packaging challenge, Interface Polymers Ltd. and Flexipol Ltd. jointly won funding of GBP 850 thousand (USD 1.05 million) grant to finance a 24-month collaborative project entitled 'Recycle Ready' multi-layer barrier plastic packaging films, aimed at the development of fully recyclable LDPE multi-layer packaging suitable for upcycling into high-value applications., February 2022 - UK-based packaging manufacturer Coveris, and British chemical group Ineos, developed and launched a range of lightweight stretch films containing a minimum of 30% recycled content in advance of UK Plastic Packaging Tax requirements, with Ineoseven trialing the film for use at its own Grangemouth, Scotland operation. The two firms claim that the trials have successfully demonstrated that the new recycled stretch-hood covering for pallets performs to the same standards as a previous product made from 100% virgin material.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Demand from the Millennial for Luxury Packaging for Consumer Goods, Demand for E-commerce Packaging is Soaring; Flexible Packaging Continues to Grow Faster. Potential restraints include: High Cost of Development and the Rising Concept of Recycling, The Rising Environmental Concerns. Notable trends are: Food Segment is Expected to Drive the Market's Growth.

The UK Flexible Plastic Packaging Market report segments the industry into By Material Type (Polyethene (PE), Bi-oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Cast Polypropylene (CPP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and more), By Product Type (Pouches, Bags, Films and Wraps, and more), and By End-User Industry (Food, Beverage, Medical and Pharmaceutical, and more).

Over the five years through 2025-26, the Packaging Service industry’s revenue is anticipated to climb at a compound annual rate of 8.4% to £8.6 billion, including a forecast rise of 5% in 2025-26. Mounting environmental awareness is a key driver of this growth, pushing a pronounced shift toward sustainable packaging. A 2025 study by McKinsey reveals that 30% of UK consumers actively prioritise the environmental impact of packaging, prompting retailers to overhaul their supply chains and driving demand toward providers with certified eco-credentials. Consequently, profit is inching up, as clients are increasingly willing to pay a premium for innovative, lower-impact designs. Major companies, including DHL and Integrated Packaging Services (IPS), are seeing their profit climb as they embrace their clients’ sustainability priorities. Automation has reshaped the competitive landscape. Surging labour costs, including a 6.7% rise in the National Living Wage in April 2025, have triggered heavy investment in robotics, AI-powered packaging solutions and proprietary tracking software, like IPS’s One Vision. These advancements are delivering improved efficiency and helping companies like DHL, which has invested over £500 million in automation in 2025, secure robust, high-margin contracts from e-commerce and retail clients seeking quick, scalable delivery options. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, most notably weak consumer confidence and flagging manufacturing output, growth in online retail has served as a buffer for the packaging market. In July 2025, online sales accounted for 27.1% of UK retail sales, by value, up from 26.9% a year earlier, according to the Office for National Statistics. Demand for bespoke, durable and protective packaging from e-commerce businesses has softened the impact of shrinking discretionary spending and falling high-street inventory levels, allowing contract packers serving online retailers to perform well. However, the contraction in manufacturing, highlighted by S&P Global’s PMI dropping below 50 in August 2025, has led to weaker order volumes and made long-term packaging contracts harder to secure, pressuring providers heavily reliant on industrial clients. Revenue is projected to rise at a compound annual rate of 6.7% over the five years through 2030-31, reaching £11.9 billion. Profit is also likely to remain strong, buoyed by rising demand for specialist and premium packaging, particularly within pharmaceuticals and health-focused, plastic-free formats. Regulation represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The phased introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme from 2027 and tightening Extended Producer Responsibility requirements will drive demand for providers with regulatory and design-for-recyclability expertise. At the same time, shifting consumer dietary preferences toward meat-free and ready-to-eat meals will elevate demand for more complex, sustainable food packaging solutions. The competitive landscape is set to become more concentrated as leading packaging providers leverage automation and sustainability to consolidate their market share.

The United Kingdom plastic packaging market size reached approximately USD 15.12 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.60% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 19.54 Billion by 2034.

The size of the UK Plastic Packaging Market market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 2.87% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: September 2022: In an effort to increase recycling rates and reduce waste, Coca-Cola Great Britain (CCGB) expanded the use of its attached caps to 500 ml bottles. This move was a part of a packaging evolution across the company's complete portfolio. The bottle cap can now remain attached to the bottle even after it has been opened, making it simpler to recycle the complete package and guaranteeing that no cap is ever left behind, even when traveling., May 2022: With backing from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), FlexCollect, the largest collaborative effort in the United Kingdom to support the collection and recycling of flexible plastic packaging, debuted. To considerably boost recovery and recycling rates, this project incorporates residential pickups of flexible plastic packaging waste.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Adoption of Lightweight-packaging Methods, Increased Eco-friendly Packaging and Recycled Plastics. Potential restraints include: High Price of Raw Material (Plastic Resin), Government Regulations and Environmental Concerns. Notable trends are: Food Industry Driving Prominent Growth.

In UK Packaging Market, RePack is a reusable packaging system designed by Loop to reduce single-use plastic waste.

The United Kingdom Plastic Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Material Type (Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and More), Packaging Type (Flexible, and Rigid), Product Form (Bottles and Jars, Trays and Containers, and More), End-User Industry (Food, Beverage, Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare, and More), Manufacturing Process (Extrusion, Injection Molding, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

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Packaging Market Size 2025-2029

The packaging market size is valued to increase USD 297.6 billion, at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2024 to 2029. Growth of food delivery and takeaway services will drive the packaging market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 41% growth during the forecast period.
By Type - Board segment was valued at USD 339.40 billion in 2023
By End-user - Food segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 48.42 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 297.60 billion
CAGR : 4.6%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market encompasses a dynamic and continually evolving industry, driven by advancements in core technologies and applications. Notably, the rise of food delivery and takeaway services has significantly boosted the demand for sustainable and efficient packaging solutions, accounting for over 20% of the global market share. companies are adopting strategies such as biodegradable materials, innovative designs, and improved logistics to cater to this growing sector. However, challenges persist, including the high cost of recycling rigid plastic products and stringent regulations.
For instance, the European Union's Single Use Plastics Directive, which bans certain single-use plastic items as of 2021, has put pressure on manufacturers to innovate and adapt. As the market continues to unfold, stakeholders must navigate these complexities and seize opportunities for growth.

What will be the Size of the Packaging Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Packaging Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The packaging industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Board
  Rigid plastic
  Flexible
  Metal
  Glass


End-user

  Food
  Beverage
  Healthcare
  Personal care
  Others


Technology

  Offset
  Flexography
  Screen
  Gravure
  Digital


Material

  Plastic
  Paper & Paperboard
  Metal
  Glass
  Wood
  Others


Packaging Type

  Primary Packaging
  Secondary Packaging
  Tertiary Packaging


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    South Africa
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The board segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic the market, various trends are shaping its evolution. Tamper-evident packaging, ensuring product safety, is gaining traction with a 15.2% market share in 2021. Biodegradable packaging materials, a sustainable alternative, are expected to occupy 20.5% of the market by 2026. Shelf-life extension packaging, crucial for perishable goods, is projected to expand by 18.7% in the same period. Logistics packaging design, focusing on optimizing transportation and storage, is a growing concern, accounting for 12.4% of the market in 2021. Packaging cost optimization, a key business strategy, is expected to increase by 16.9% in future industry expectations. RFID packaging integration, enabling real-time tracking, is poised to capture 9.8% of the market share by 2026.

Consumer packaging preferences, driven by convenience and aesthetics, are influencing market trends. Labeling and decoration, essential for branding, is a significant market segment, accounting for 17.6% in 2021. Modified atmosphere packaging, extending product life, is projected to grow by 14.5% in the upcoming years. Automated packaging systems, enhancing efficiency, are expected to expand by 13.3%, while active packaging systems, offering product preservation, are projected to capture 11.2% of the market share by 2026. Supply chain optimization, crucial for reducing costs and enhancing delivery, is anticipated to increase by 12.1%. Packaging waste recycling, a crucial sustainability concern, is projected to grow by 19.1% in future industry expectations.

Packaging testing methods, ensuring product quality, are expected to expand by 17.8%. Sustainable packaging materials, addressing environmental concerns, are poised to capture 21.5% of the market share by 2026. Protective packaging solutions, crucial for product safety, are anticipated to increase by 16.6%. Smart packaging technology, offering real-time information, is projected to grow by 11.9%. Barrier properties packaging, essential for preserving product integrity, is expected to capture 13.7% of the market share by 2026. Packaging line efficiency, crucial for reducing dow

UK Smart Packaging Market is projected to grow around USD 82.5 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 12.1% during the forecast period.

Discover the booming UK flexible plastic packaging market, projected to reach £1.9 billion by 2033 with a 3.05% CAGR. Learn about key drivers, trends, and restraints shaping this dynamic sector, including sustainable packaging and e-commerce growth. Explore market segmentation and leading companies. Key drivers for this market are: Rise in Plastic Recyclability to Promote Plastic Flexible Packaging, Increasing Demand from the Food Sector is Expected to Propel the Market. Potential restraints include: Rise in Plastic Recyclability to Promote Plastic Flexible Packaging, Increasing Demand from the Food Sector is Expected to Propel the Market. Notable trends are: Plastic Recycling is Expected to Drive the Market's Growth.

The UK Plastic Packaging report provides a detailed analysis of emerging investment pockets, highlighting current and future market trends. It offers strategic insights into capital flows and market shifts, guiding investors toward growth opportunities in key industry segments and regions.

The UK Pouch Packaging Market report segments the industry into By Material (Plastic, Paper, Aluminum), By Product (Flat (Pillow & Side-Seal), Stand-up), By End-User Industry (Food, Beverage, Medical and Pharmaceutical, Personal Care and Household Care, Other End User Industries (Automotive, Chemical, Agriculture)). The report provides five years of historical data and five-year market forecasts.

Discover the latest trends and growth projections for the UK flexible plastic packaging market. This in-depth analysis reveals key drivers, restraints, and market segmentation, including material types (PE, BOPP, CPP), product types (pouches, bags), and end-user industries (food, beverage, medical). Explore the competitive landscape and future outlook for this dynamic market. Recent developments include: April 2024: Flow Materials launched a new range of flexible packaging adhesives. Flow Materials launched its latest range of solvent-free, water-based adhesive solutions as a sustainability-minded asset for flexible packaging. In the United Kingdom and European Union, the company focuses on adhesive supply for flexible packaging converters., February 2024: Eco Flexibles, a flexible packaging specialist, marked its commercial evolution by opening its new high-tech UK headquarters. Located in a new 40,000 ft2 production site in Northampton, the move represents a significant leap forward for Eco Flexibles. Substantial investments in packaging press machinery and technology are also part of its strategic expansion plans for 2024 and beyond.. Key drivers for this market are: Rise in Plastic Recyclability to Promote Plastic Flexible Packaging, Increasing Demand from the Food Sector is Expected to Propel the Market. Potential restraints include: Rise in Plastic Recyclability to Promote Plastic Flexible Packaging, Increasing Demand from the Food Sector is Expected to Propel the Market. Notable trends are: Plastic Recycling is Expected to Drive the Market's Growth.

The UK rigid plastic packaging market is booming, with a projected CAGR of 3.04% to 2033. Driven by food & beverage, e-commerce, and evolving sustainability trends, this report analyzes market size, key players (Amcor, Berry Global, etc.), and segment trends (PET, HDPE, food packaging). Discover growth opportunities in this dynamic sector. Recent developments include: April 2024: Aldi emerged as the pioneering supermarket in the United Kingdom, transitioning to 100% recycled PET for its own-brand soft drinks and bottled water range, except caps and labels. This initiative is projected to conserve approximately 10,000 tonnes of virgin plastic annually. Furthermore, it aligns with Aldi's ambition to incorporate 50% recycled content into its plastic packaging across all business segments by 2025., October 2023: Abel & Cole, a dairy company based in Wroughton, Wiltshire, introduced the United Kingdom's inaugural washable and refillable plastic milk bottle. Designed for multiple refills, these innovative bottles are free to consumers. Weighing an average of 40g, these bottles are significantly lighter than their 200g glass counterparts, reducing fuel consumption during transportation.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Adoption in Food and Beverage Sector, Increasing Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions Demand Across the Industrial Sector. Potential restraints include: Growing Adoption in Food and Beverage Sector, Increasing Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions Demand Across the Industrial Sector. Notable trends are: Food and Beverage Segment is Anticipated to Witness The Highest Growth.

The size of the United Kingdom Metal Packaging Market market was valued at USD XX Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2033, with an expected CAGR of 3.40% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: March 2022: Ball Corporation started constructing its new aluminum packaging plant in the United Kingdom at the SEGRO Park Kettering Gateway. This new facility, which is 56,000 square meters in size and set to open in January 2023, would be the largest beverage packaging plant ever built in the United Kingdom. In its first year, the plant would be producing over one billion fully recyclable cans., March 2022: Crown Holdings Inc. announced that it would build a new beverage can facility in Peterborough, United Kingdom. The company said construction on the Peterborough plant would begin during the second quarter of 2022, with the first line expected to commence production during the second quarter of 2023. Also, the company planned additional lines in a phased manner to reach over three billion units of annual capacity.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Demand from the Beverage Industry, High Recyclability Rates of Metal Packaging. Potential restraints include: Availability of Low Cost Alternative Packaging Solutions. Notable trends are: Growing Demand from the Beverage Industry.

The UK Pouch Packaging market report offers a thorough competitive analysis, mapping key players’ strategies, market share, and business models. It provides insights into competitor dynamics, helping companies align their strategies with the current market landscape and future trends.

USD 953.51 Million in 2024; projected USD 1784.68 Million by 2033; CAGR 7.27%.

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Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Size 2025-2029

The rigid plastic packaging market size is forecast to increase by USD 84.1 billion at a CAGR of 6.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing demand from the food and beverage industry. This sector's shift towards lightweight, durable, and cost-effective packaging solutions is fueling market expansion. However, the use of fiber-based materials for packaging poses a challenge, as these alternatives offer similar benefits and are gaining popularity due to their eco-friendliness. Another significant obstacle is the high cost of recycling rigid plastic products, which can hinder market growth. Despite these challenges, opportunities exist for companies to innovate and offer cost-effective recycling solutions or differentiate themselves through the use of advanced technologies, such as biodegradable plastics or improved production processes. 
By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the market's growth potential, businesses can effectively position themselves for success in the market. In the food and beverage sector, the demand for rigid plastic packaging is on the rise, driven by the increasing consumption of products such as hair care, soft drinks, detergent, pasta, meat, oral care, packaging for cookies, alcoholic beverages, juices, and pickles. Expanded polystyrene and polyethylene are commonly used materials for food packaging, while polyethylene terephthalate is preferred for beverage containers.

What will be the Size of the Rigid Plastic Packaging Market during the forecast period?

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In the dynamic US packaging market, material science advances continue to shape the landscape, with a focus on reducing packaging waste and integrating packaging lines. Sustainable packaging trends, such as carbon footprint reduction and modified atmosphere packaging, are driving innovation in labeling materials, closure systems, and packaging equipment. Smart packaging, including inkjet printing and RFID tagging, enhances food safety and consumer engagement. Brand loyalty is paramount, and sustainability initiatives, such as recycled plastic content and biodegradable packaging, are key differentiators. Packaging automation and efficiency are essential for e-commerce and food industries, with vacuum packaging, protective films, and packaging foams optimizing product preservation.
Food contact compliance, moisture absorbers, and anti-static packaging ensure product quality and safety. Digital printing and plant-based polymers offer design flexibility and environmental benefits. Life cycle analysis and environmental impact assessments guide packaging material sourcing and production process efficiency. Circular economy principles, including reusable packaging and packaging recycling, are increasingly important for reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. Aseptic packaging and packaging line optimization further streamline operations and enhance product protection. Overall, the US packaging market is continuously evolving, with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

How is this Rigid Plastic Packaging Industry segmented?

The rigid plastic packaging industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Bottles
  Containers
  Caps and closures
  Others


End-user

  Food
  Healthcare
  Cosmetic and toiletries
  Beverages
  Industrial


Material

  Polyethylene
  Polypropylene
  Polyvinyl Chloride
  Polystyrene
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The bottles segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Rigid plastic packaging, primarily made from materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene plastic (PP), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), continues to dominate various industries due to its versatility and durability. This packaging type is utilized extensively for a wide range of products, including water, juices, pharmaceuticals, food items, cosmetics, carbonated soft drinks, and personal care products. The retail sector's expansion and the increasing preference for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions have fueled market growth. For instance, Coca-Cola India introduced 100% recycled PET (rPET) bottles in the carbonated beverage category in October 2023. Consumer preferences for child-resistant, tamper-evident, and oxygen barrier packaging have led to the development of advanced packaging technologies.

Material science innovations have enabled the cr

The United Kingdom pouch packaging market is experiencing steady growth, projected to reach £1.94 billion in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.36% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing popularity of flexible packaging, driven by its lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, and improved shelf life for products, is a significant factor. Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce and the growing demand for convenient, on-the-go food and beverage options are boosting demand for pouches. Consumer preference for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials is also influencing market growth, leading to increased innovation in recyclable and biodegradable pouch options. However, fluctuating raw material prices and concerns regarding the recyclability of certain pouch types pose challenges to sustained market expansion. Segmentation within the market is diverse, encompassing various materials (e.g., plastic, paper, foil laminates), pouch types (e.g., stand-up pouches, spouted pouches), and end-use industries (e.g., food & beverage, personal care, healthcare). Major players in the UK market include Amcor PLC, Mondi PLC, and Sonoco Products Company, amongst others, actively competing through product innovation and strategic partnerships. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests continued growth, driven by the ongoing trends mentioned above. However, the market will need to address the challenges of sustainability and cost management to maintain its current trajectory. Innovation in sustainable materials and improved recycling infrastructure are crucial for long-term market success. Companies are likely to focus on providing customized solutions and value-added services to cater to the evolving needs of diverse end-use industries. Competitive dynamics will remain intense, with companies prioritizing efficient manufacturing processes and supply chain optimization to remain competitive and meet the growing demand. Further research into specific segment performance and regional variations within the UK market would provide a more granular understanding of the future market landscape. Key drivers for this market are: Demand from the Food and Beverage Industry to Push the Market's Growth. Potential restraints include: Demand from the Food and Beverage Industry to Push the Market's Growth. Notable trends are: Increasing Adoption of Lightweight Packaging Methods.