Solid Solutions: How Rigid Packaging Is Reshaping Global Supply Chains

The global rigid packaging market was estimated at US$496.7 billion in 2016 and is projected to reach US$729.1 billion by 2023, growing at a 5.8% CAGR from 2017 to 2023. Its growth is driven by increased consumer goods demand, improved recycling rates, and competitive plastic prices.

Material Segmentation

• Rigid Plastic (PET, PP, HDPE, etc.): The primary driver, projected to grow at a 6.9% CAGR through 2023.
• Metal Packaging: Worth US$72.95 billion in 2016, with a 3.7% CAGR.
• Bioplastics & Wood (“Others”): Fastest-growing category amid sustainability trends.
• Glass & Paperboard: Steady, benefiting from recyclable initiative momentum.

According to Allied’s updated projection, the rigid plastic packaging segment alone rose to US $218.6 billion in 2022, expected to reach US $342.8 billion by 2032 (CAGR 4.6%).

In that breakdown:

• PET leads market share (~⅔ of segment revenue) and remains dominant through 2032.
• PP leads growth (5.5% CAGR) with advantages in cost, durability, and availability.

End-User Industries

• Food & Beverage: Largest consumer, projected to reach US $439.5 billion by 2023. Demand is driven by convenience, freshness, and long shelf life.
• Pharmaceuticals: Fastest-growing end-use segment (CAGR ~7.9% through 2023).
• Personal Care: Also exhibits robust growth (~6.5% CAGR) PR Newswire.
• Healthcare/Medical Devices: The rigid plastic subsegment is forecasted to grow at ~7.4% CAGR by 2026 .

Regional Analysis

• Asia–Pacific: Dominates the market — 44.9% share in 2016 and still leading (~43.7% in 2023). Fueled by urbanization, rising incomes, food processing, and e-commerce.
• North America & Europe: Mature stakes; growth led by packaging innovation and sustainability efforts.
• Latin America & MEA: Projected 7–7.2% CAGR through 2030, supported by rising packaged goods consumption.

Key Trends & Drivers

1. E-commerce expansion: Boosts demand for rigid, durable protective packaging.
2. Sustainability push: Increased investment in bioplastics, lightweight materials, and recyclable packaging.
3. Technological innovation: Integration of smart packaging (QR, RFID, sensors) adds value.
4. Health & safety concerns: Higher-quality packaging for food and pharmaceuticals demands rigid solutions.
5. Raw material volatility: Price swings challenge cost forecasts.

Market Forecast to 2032

• Rigid plastic packaging: From US $218.6 billion in 2022 to US $342.8 billion by 2032 (CAGR 4.6%).
• Region trends: Asia–Pacific will continue to lead, with strong gains in North America and Europe driven by innovation and sustainability.

Competitive Landscape

Major players remain:

• Amcor, Ball, Berry Plastics, Tetra Pak, Plastipak, Reynolds, Holmen, DS Smith, Georgia-Pacific, Bemis, and others.

Strategies focus on:

• Product innovations (eco-friendly materials, smart packaging).
• M&A for expanded manufacturing footprints.
• Partnerships to enhance recycling infrastructure.

Future Outlook

The rigid packaging market benefits from a steady rise in packaged food, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and a strong trend toward sustainable packaging. With plastic still leading but materials like bioplastics gaining share, innovation in packaging — especially smart and recyclable options — will define competitive advantage. Regulatory pressures and consumer awareness around waste will steer ongoing transformation.

As of July 2025, key observations:

• Plastic remains dominant, but sustainability is reshaping materials strategy.
• Asia–Pacific continues to lead globally.
• Pharma & healthcare present high-growth niches.
• Smart packaging is an emerging area for differentiation.

📌 Recommendations for Stakeholders

• Manufacturers: Invest in material R&D (lightweight, PCR, bioplastics) and integrate smart features.
• Retailers & Brands: Collaborate on recyclable, branded packaging with consumer engagement elements (e.g., QR codes).
• Investors: Monitor trends in e-commerce, pharmaceutical packaging, and circular packaging startups.

In summary, the rigid packaging market remains robust and expanding, underpinned by global consumption trends, product protection demands, and evolving sustainability mandates. The next decade will be shaped by material innovation, digital features, and regulatory alignment with environmental goals.

Visit Us:

Construction and Manufacturing Insights

Construction Industry

Construction Blog