North America Flexible Packaging Market Size
| Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
| Base Year For Estimation | 2023 |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 50.64 Billion |
| Market Size (2029) | USD 61.23 Billion |
| CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 3.87 % |
| Market Concentration | High |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
North America Flexible Packaging Market Analysis
The North America Flexible Packaging Market size is estimated at USD 50.64 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 61.23 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.87% during the forecast period (2024-2029). In terms of shipment volume, the market is expected to grow from 10.5 million tons in 2024 to 12.40 million tons by 2029, at a CAGR of 3.48% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
Increased Demand for Convenient Packaging Drives Market Growth:
The North America Flexible Packaging Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for convenient packaging solutions. This surge is largely due to evolving consumer behaviors and the rapid expansion of e-commerce. For instance, supermarket and grocery store sales in the U.S. reached USD 810.28 billion in 2022, up from USD 747.84 billion in 2021, underscoring the rising demand for packaged goods. The flexible packaging industry is responding with innovative solutions that offer portability, extended shelf life, and user-friendliness.
- Popularity of stand-up pouches: Stand-up pouches are increasingly popular due to their lightweight, lower production costs, and ease of use for both manufacturers and consumers.
- High demand in frozen foods: The frozen food sector is a major driver of flexible packaging demand, requiring high-performance barrier properties to prevent freezer burn and prolong shelf life.
- E-commerce sales growth: The U.S. e-commerce sector generated USD 277.582 billion in Q2 2023, highlighting the need for effective, protective packaging for online retail products.
Changing Demographics and Lifestyle Factors Shape Market Trends:
Demographic shifts and lifestyle changes are reshaping the flexible packaging market. Consumers today prioritize health, convenience, and sustainability, prompting new packaging innovations.
- Consumer preferences: A study by the Flexible Packaging Association found that 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for packaging that offers easy storage, resealability, and extended shelf life.
- Aging population: The growing elderly demographic is driving demand for easy-to-open packaging solutions, pushing advancements in adhesives and packaging design.
- Urbanization and convenience: Rapid urbanization and fast-paced lifestyles are fueling the demand for on-the-go packaging formats, particularly portion-controlled solutions that enhance convenience.
Sustainability Initiatives Drive Innovation and Market Growth:
Sustainability has become a critical focus in the flexible packaging industry. Companies are investing in eco-friendly materials and recyclable packaging to align with consumer preferences and regulatory demands.
- Circular economy initiatives: In September 2023, the Canada Plastics Pact (CPP) announced a five-year plan aimed at boosting the circular economy for flexible plastic packaging across Canada.
- New recyclable products: In August 2023, Amcor introduced its curbside-recyclable AmFiber Performance Paper packaging in North America, designed to meet repulpability standards for curbside recycling.
- Water-resistant packaging: JBM Packaging's launch of HydroBlox, a recyclable and water-resistant packaging paper, is an example of how sustainability drives product development in the industry.
- Technological Advancements and Market Expansions Fuel Growth:
The flexible packaging market is seeing increased investment in new technologies and capacity expansions, fostering innovation and growth.
- Mono-material packaging development: TC Transcontinental Packaging invested USD 60 million in developing recyclable flexible plastic solutions, such as a new film line to produce biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPE) in North America.
- Facility expansion: Accredo Packaging completed a USD 10 million expansion in Texas, adding 83,000 square feet of space to support sustainable flexible packaging production.
- Smart packaging: Technologies like RFID tags, QR codes, and sensors are increasingly being integrated into flexible packaging to enhance traceability, improve quality control, and drive consumer engagement.
- Market Consolidation and Strategic Acquisitions Shape Industry Landscape:
Mergers and acquisitions are becoming increasingly common as companies seek to expand their portfolios and market reach.
Recent acquisitions: Sonoco acquired Graphic Packaging Corporation's flexible packaging division for USD 105 million in September 2023, doubling its presence in the flexible packaging market.
- SEE's acquisition of Liquibox: In February 2023, SEE completed the USD 1.15 billion acquisition of Liquibox, accelerating the growth of its CRYOVAC brand in fluids and liquids packaging.
- Future Outlook: Innovation and Sustainability at the Forefront:
The North American flexible packaging market is on the cusp of significant changes, driven by sustainability, innovation, and evolving consumer demands.
- Circular economy focus: Collaborative efforts across the value chain are increasingly geared towards establishing more sustainable approaches to flexible packaging.
- Digital printing expansion: High-quality digital printing technologies are enabling customizable, cost-effective packaging solutions, further enhancing the sector's growth.
- E-commerce impact: The continued rise of e-commerce will drive ongoing demand for protective and efficient packaging solutions.
- Tech adoption: Companies are expected to increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, using technologies to improve traceability, reduce waste, and optimize logistics within their supply chains.
North America Flexible Packaging Market Trends
Food to Holds Major Share
The food industry dominates the North America Flexible Packaging Market, representing a 52.60% market share in 2023. This segment is expected to grow from USD 25.50 billion in 2023 to USD 31.12 billion by 2029, with a steady CAGR of 3.27%.
- Convenience and lifestyle demands: Modern, fast-paced lifestyles are boosting demand for convenient, easy-to-prepare food, driving flexible packaging needs, particularly for plastic stand-up pouches.
- Eco-friendly packaging innovations: Sustainability is shaping product development, as seen with JBM Packaging’s HydroBlox, which boasts 200% greater water resistance than standard paper packaging.
- Seasonal confectionery sales: Packaging demand from the confectionery industry is influenced by major holidays like Halloween, Easter, and Valentine's Day, driving innovation in seasonal packaging designs.
Canada to Witness Major Growth
Canada is emerging as the fastest-growing region within the North America Flexible Packaging Market, with a projected CAGR of 5.27% from 2024 to 2029. The market is expected to grow from USD 6.10 billion in 2023 to USD 8.35 billion by 2029.
- Growth in paper-based packaging: Canada is seeing strong expansion in paper-based packaging products, supported by projections from the FAO that the country’s paper production capacity will reach 10.62 million metric tons by 2024.
- Industry and government support: Organizations like the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) are driving the adoption of flexible, recyclable packaging solutions through advocacy and support for the wood, pulp, and paper industries.
North America Flexible Packaging Industry Overview
The competitive landscape of the North American flexible packaging market is dominated by large multinational corporations and specialized firms. Amcor PLC, Berry Global Group Inc., and Sealed Air Corporation are among the leading players, leveraging their global resources and technological strengths.
Innovation as a key driver: Companies like Amcor are focusing on sustainability, launching curbside-recyclable solutions such as AmFiber Performance Paper in 2023.
Investment in capacity expansion: TC Transcontinental Packaging’s USD 60 million investment in recyclable flexible packaging highlights the ongoing emphasis on innovation and sustainability.
Sustainability strategies: To remain competitive, market leaders are heavily investing in recyclable materials and technologies like digital printing, while also seeking expansion through mergers and acquisitions.
Strategies for Future Success in the Market
To stay competitive in the North America Flexible Packaging Market, companies must adopt several key strategies:
Sustainability first: Prioritizing eco-friendly materials and recyclable solutions is essential to meet both consumer demand and regulatory requirements.
Technological investments: Investing in smart packaging technologies and digital printing will help enhance production efficiency and packaging innovation.
Strategic acquisitions: Expanding market reach and product portfolios through mergers and acquisitions, as seen with Sonoco’s acquisition of Graphic Packaging, will be crucial.
E-commerce readiness: Tailoring packaging solutions for the booming e-commerce market while optimizing supply chains with advanced technologies like blockchain and data analytics will be key for future success.
North America Flexible Packaging Market Leaders
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Amcor PLC
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Mondi PLC
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Transcontinental Inc.
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American Packaging Corporation
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Printpack Inc.
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
North America Flexible Packaging Market News
- February 2024 - Mondi PLC announced the acquisition of Hinton Pulp Mill, Alberta, Canada, for USD 5 million. Hinton Pulp Mill is in Hinton, Alberta and is owned and operated by West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. The mill can produce approximately 250,000 tons of pulp per year. The acquisition of the mill is part of a long-term partnership between the Group and West Fraser in which the Group will benefit from access to locally sourced, high-quality fiber from a well-established wood basket.
- September 2023- Sonoco, the global packaging company, completed the previously announced purchase of the flexible packaging division of Graphic Packaging Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACX Technologies, Inc.
- August 2023 - TC Transcontinental Packaging invested USD 60 million to develop recyclable flexible plastic packaging, adding a new film line for BOPE production and expanding its Spartanburg, South Carolina, facility.
North America Flexible Packaging Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
- 4.1 Market Overview
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4.2 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes
- 4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.3 Assessment of the Impact of the Recent Geopolitical Developments on the Flexible Packaging Market
- 4.4 Exim Analysis - North America Flexible Packaging Market
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
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5.1 Market Drivers
- 5.1.1 Increased Demand for Convenient Packaging Drives Market Growth
- 5.1.2 Changing Demographic and Lifestyle Factors
- 5.1.3 Sustainability Initiatives Drive Innovation and Market Growth
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5.2 Market Challenges
- 5.2.1 Concerns Regarding the Environment and Recycling
- 5.3 Sustainable Packaging Light Weighting Recycled and Recyclable Polymers
- 5.4 Key Technological Developments in Flexible Packaging Allied Markets
- 5.5 Patent Analysis For Flexible Packaging Market in the United States
- 5.6 Industry Standards and Regulations
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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6.1 By Material Type
- 6.1.1 Plastics
- 6.1.1.1 Polyethene (PE)
- 6.1.1.2 Bi-orientated Polypropylene (BOPP)
- 6.1.1.3 Cast Polypropylene (CPP)
- 6.1.1.4 Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH)
- 6.1.1.5 Other Types (PVC, PA, Bioplastics)
- 6.1.2 Paper
- 6.1.3 Aluminium Foil
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6.2 By Product Type
- 6.2.1 Pouches
- 6.2.2 Bags
- 6.2.3 Films and Wraps
- 6.2.4 Other Product Types
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6.3 By End-User Industry
- 6.3.1 Food
- 6.3.1.1 Frozen & Chilled Food
- 6.3.1.2 Meat, Poultry & Fish
- 6.3.1.3 Fruits & Vegetables
- 6.3.1.4 Bakery & Confectionary
- 6.3.1.5 Dried & Ready Meals
- 6.3.1.6 Pet Food
- 6.3.1.7 Other Food Products
- 6.3.2 Beverages
- 6.3.3 Tobacco
- 6.3.4 Cosmetics & Personal Care
- 6.3.5 Other End-user Industries
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6.4 By Country
- 6.4.1 United States
- 6.4.2 Canada
7. NORTH AMERICA COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING MARKET ANALYSIS
- 7.1 Market Size and Growth Forecast
- 7.2 Current Demand Analysis Based on Product Types and Application
- 7.3 Breakdown By Resin Type: Plastic PLA, PHA, Etc., Paper-based - Molded Fiber, Coated Unbleached, Etc.
- 7.4 List of Key Market Participants in North America
- 7.5 Breakdown By Home & Industrial Compostable Packaging
8. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
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8.1 Company Profiles*
- 8.1.1 Amcor PLC
- 8.1.2 Mondi PLC
- 8.1.3 Transcontinental Inc.
- 8.1.4 American Packaging Corporation
- 8.1.5 Printpack Inc.
- 8.1.6 Sigma Plastics Group Inc.
- 8.1.7 Novolex Holdings Inc.
- 8.1.8 Berry Global Inc.
- 8.1.9 Sealed Air Corp.
- 8.1.10 PPC Flexible Packaging LLC
- 8.1.11 Constantia Flexibles
- 8.1.12 ProAmpac LLC
- 8.1.13 Emmerson Packaging
- 8.1.14 Charter Next Generation Inc.
9. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
10. FUTURE OF THE MARKET
** Subject To AvailablityNorth America Flexible Packaging Industry Segmentation
Flexible packaging is a means of packaging products made of non-rigid materials, allowing for more economical and customizable options. Flexible packaging can easily change shape during filling or use.
The North American flexible packaging market is segmented by material type (plastics [polyethene (PE), bi-orientated polypropylene (BOPP), cast polypropylene (CPP), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH]), paper, and aluminum foil), product type (pouches, bags, films, and wraps), end-user industry (food [frozen & chilled food, meat, poultry & fish, fruits & vegetables, bakery & confectionary, dried & ready meals, pet food], beverages, tobacco, and cosmetics & personal care), and country (United States, Canada). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.
| By Material Type | Plastics | Polyethene (PE) |
| Bi-orientated Polypropylene (BOPP) | ||
| Cast Polypropylene (CPP) | ||
| Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH) | ||
| Other Types (PVC, PA, Bioplastics) | ||
| By Material Type | Paper | |
| Aluminium Foil | ||
| By Product Type | Pouches | |
| Bags | ||
| Films and Wraps | ||
| Other Product Types | ||
| By End-User Industry | Food | Frozen & Chilled Food |
| Meat, Poultry & Fish | ||
| Fruits & Vegetables | ||
| Bakery & Confectionary | ||
| Dried & Ready Meals | ||
| Pet Food | ||
| Other Food Products | ||
| By End-User Industry | Beverages | |
| Tobacco | ||
| Cosmetics & Personal Care | ||
| Other End-user Industries | ||
| By Country | United States | |
| Canada |
North America Flexible Packaging Market Research FAQs
How big is the North America Flexible Packaging Market?
The North America Flexible Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 50.64 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 3.87% to reach USD 61.23 billion by 2029.
What is the current North America Flexible Packaging Market size?
In 2024, the North America Flexible Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 50.64 billion.
Who are the key players in North America Flexible Packaging Market?
Amcor PLC, Mondi PLC, Transcontinental Inc., American Packaging Corporation and Printpack Inc. are the major companies operating in the North America Flexible Packaging Market.
What years does this North America Flexible Packaging Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023?
In 2023, the North America Flexible Packaging Market size was estimated at USD 48.68 billion. The report covers the North America Flexible Packaging Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the North America Flexible Packaging Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
North America Flexible Packaging Industry Report
North America Flexible Packaging Market Research
Our comprehensive research on the North America flexible packaging market provides industry stakeholders with valuable insights into emerging trends, innovative technologies, and sustainability initiatives shaping the sector. The report covers critical areas such as market segmentation, demand drivers, and the competitive landscape, offering an in-depth analysis of key factors influencing the industry. Our market forecast, supported by detailed market data, highlights growth opportunities for companies aiming to enhance their product portfolios and operational efficiency through advanced packaging technologies.
This report delivers actionable insights across industry trends, sustainability innovations, and technological advancements, giving businesses the tools to navigate the dynamic flexible packaging market. Key players can leverage the information provided to anticipate shifts in consumer behavior, regulatory changes, and market expansions. The detailed findings are available in an easy-to-read report pdf format, designed to help industry leaders optimize their strategies and capitalize on evolving opportunities within the North American market.
