Contract Packaging Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Contract Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Packaging (Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary), End-User Industry (Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical, Household and Personal Care, and Other End-User Industries), and Geography (North America (United States and Canada), Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America, and Middle East and Africa). The Market Sizes and Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD) for all the Above Segments.

Contract Packaging Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Contract Packaging Market Size

Contract Packaging Market Summary
Study Period 2019 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 79.69 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 120.88 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 8.69 %
Fastest Growing Market Asia Pacific
Largest Market North America
Market Concentration Medium

Major Players

Contract Packaging Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Compare market size and growth of Contract Packaging Market with other markets in Packaging Industry

Advanced Packaging

Packaging Equipment

Contract Packaging

Overall Packaging

Packaging Customers

Packaging Forms

Contract Packaging Market Analysis

The Contract Packaging Market size is estimated at USD 79.69 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 120.88 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.69% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The contract packaging industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by an increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Contract packagers are actively adopting eco-friendly alternatives and sustainable package designs to meet both regulatory requirements and growing consumer environmental consciousness. This shift is exemplified by recent innovations such as Orlandi's launch of EcoPro Paper Wrap in April 2024, a high-barrier, heat-sealable paper-wrap material designed as a sustainable alternative to plastic film and foil pouches. According to Care Ratings, more than 49% of paper produced is now being utilized for packaging purposes, highlighting the industry's substantial shift toward sustainable materials.


The industry is witnessing rapid technological advancement and innovation in packaging solutions, with particular emphasis on smart packaging technologies and automation. Contract packagers are increasingly incorporating technologies such as desiccants, oxygen scavengers, antimicrobial materials, and temperature control packaging to ensure product integrity. Advanced tracking solutions, including NFC-enabled RFID tags for real-time location tracking and authentication, are being integrated into packaging solutions to prevent theft and ensure product authenticity. These technological advancements are transforming traditional packaging processes and enabling more sophisticated quality control measures.


The market is experiencing significant consolidation through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, as companies seek to expand their service offerings and geographical presence. This trend is illustrated by Veritiv Corporation's acquisition of Ameripac LLC in April 2024, which aims to enhance its contract packaging capabilities and customer base. Contract packaging firms are also expanding their facilities and production capabilities to meet growing demand, with many companies investing in new production lines and automated systems to increase operational efficiency and maintain a competitive advantage.


The regulatory landscape continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on quality standards and compliance across different industries. Contract packaging firms are adapting to stringent regulations, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food industries, where packaging requirements are becoming increasingly complex. The industry is witnessing the emergence of new standards for packaging materials, especially in regions like the European Union, where regulations are being enforced to increase recycling rates and recycled content. This regulatory environment is driving innovation in packaging solutions while ensuring higher quality standards and safety measures across the industry.

Segment Analysis: By Packaging

Primary Packaging Segment in Contract Packaging Market

Primary packaging holds the dominant position in the global contract packaging market, commanding approximately 49% market share in 2024. This segment's leadership is primarily driven by its critical role in direct product protection and preservation, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals and food & beverages. The segment's prominence is reinforced by increasing demand for innovative primary packaging solutions that extend product shelf life and ensure product integrity. Contract packagers provide essential capabilities for manufacturers, particularly valuable for projects requiring short runs or frequent changeovers, such as new product launches and seasonal demands. The segment's strength is further bolstered by stringent regulations in pharmaceutical and food industries requiring specialized primary packaging expertise, making it an indispensable service for manufacturers looking to outsource their packaging operations.

Market Analysis of Contract Packaging Market: Chart for By Packaging

Secondary Packaging Segment in Contract Packaging Market

The secondary packaging segment is experiencing the most rapid growth in the contract packaging market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 11% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is driven by the booming e-commerce sector and increasing demand for retail-ready packaging solutions. The segment's expansion is further fueled by the rising need for protective packaging during transportation and the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions. Secondary contract packaging services are becoming increasingly sophisticated, incorporating advanced technologies for tracking, traceability, and brand protection. The segment is also witnessing significant innovation in areas such as smart packaging and sustainable materials, making it particularly attractive for brands looking to enhance their environmental credentials while ensuring product protection during distribution.

Remaining Segments in Contract Packaging Industry

The tertiary packaging segment plays a vital role in the contract packaging industry by focusing on bulk transportation and warehouse storage solutions. This segment is particularly crucial for optimizing logistics operations and ensuring efficient product handling throughout the supply chain. Tertiary packaging services have evolved to incorporate advanced tracking and monitoring capabilities, especially important for temperature-sensitive products in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The segment continues to adapt to changing market demands by introducing innovative solutions for bulk handling and transportation, while also addressing sustainability concerns through reusable and recyclable packaging options. The integration of smart technologies in tertiary packaging is enabling better supply chain visibility and improved inventory management for clients.

Segment Analysis: By End-User Industry

Food Segment in Contract Packaging Market

The food segment continues to dominate the contract packaging market, commanding approximately 50% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the increasing demand for packaged food products and the growing trend of food manufacturers outsourcing their packaging operations to focus on their core business activities. The segment's prominence is further strengthened by the rising consumer preference for convenience foods, stringent food safety regulations, and the need for innovative packaging solutions that ensure product freshness and extended shelf life. Contract packagers in the food segment offer various services including pouching, bagging, cartoning, and specialty packaging solutions that cater to different food categories such as dry foods, ready-to-eat meals, and snacks.

Pharmaceutical Contract Packaging Market

The pharmaceutical segment is emerging as the fastest-growing sector in the pharmaceutical contract packaging market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 12% during 2024-2029. This robust growth is primarily driven by the increasing complexity of pharmaceutical packaging requirements, stringent regulatory compliance needs, and the growing demand for specialized packaging solutions for different drug formulations. The segment's growth is further accelerated by the rising demand for blister packaging, unit-dose packaging, and sterile packaging solutions. Contract packagers are increasingly investing in advanced technologies and clean room facilities to meet the exacting standards required for pharmaceutical packaging, while also offering value-added services such as serialization and anti-counterfeiting solutions.

Remaining Segments in End-User Industry

The beverage, household and personal care, and other end-user segments collectively represent significant opportunities in the co-packing industry. The beverage segment maintains a strong presence with its diverse requirements for bottle filling, can packaging, and specialized beverage packaging solutions. The household and personal care segment is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions and innovative dispensing systems. Other end-user industries, including automotive, chemical, and electronics, contribute to the market's diversity by requiring specialized packaging solutions that meet their unique product protection and transportation needs.

Contract Packaging Market Geography Segment Analysis

Contract Packaging Market in North America

North America represents a mature and sophisticated contract packaging market characterized by advanced technological adoption and stringent quality standards. The region's market is primarily driven by the robust pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and personal care industries. The United States and Canada form the key markets, with both countries showing a strong commitment to innovation in packaging solutions and sustainable practices. The presence of major contract packaging companies and their continuous investment in expanding operational capabilities has strengthened the region's position in the global packaging market.

Market Analysis of Contract Packaging Market: Forecasted Growth Rate by Region

Contract Packaging Market in United States

The United States dominates the North American contract packaging market landscape with its extensive network of contract packaging companies and diverse end-user industries. The country's market is characterized by high automation levels and sophisticated packaging solutions across pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and consumer goods sectors. The pharmaceutical packaging sector particularly shows strong growth, driven by stringent regulations and increasing demand for specialized packaging solutions. The United States holds approximately 78% of the North American contract packaging market share in 2024, reflecting its dominant position in the region. The country's contract packaging sector has adapted well to challenging business conditions while maintaining awareness of intense global competition and cost pressures.

Contract Packaging Market in Canada

Canada emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, demonstrating significant potential in the contract packaging sector. The country's market is experiencing rapid evolution, particularly in areas of sustainable packaging solutions and e-commerce fulfillment services. Canadian contract packaging companies are increasingly adopting innovative technologies and expanding their service offerings to meet diverse client needs. The market is projected to grow at approximately 11% annually from 2024 to 2029. This growth is supported by rising demand for online shopping and added layers of packaging protection for online purchases, along with increasing demand for packaging in food and beverage, pharmaceutical needs, and household items.

Contract Packaging Market in Europe

Europe represents a sophisticated contract packaging market with a strong focus on sustainability and technological innovation. The region's market is characterized by stringent regulations, particularly regarding environmental protection and packaging standards. Germany, the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain constitute the major markets, each contributing significantly to the regional landscape. The European market demonstrates a strong commitment to eco-friendly packaging solutions and digital transformation in packaging operations, with various countries implementing specific regulations to promote sustainable packaging practices.

Contract Packaging Market in Germany

Germany stands as the largest contract packaging market in Europe, driven by its robust manufacturing sector and technological advancement in packaging solutions. The country's market is characterized by high levels of automation and innovative packaging technologies, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. Germany commands approximately 31% of the European contract packaging market share in 2024, establishing its position as the regional leader. The country's emphasis on quality and efficiency in packaging operations, coupled with strong infrastructure and technological capabilities, continues to attract major industry players.

Contract Packaging Market in Netherlands

The Netherlands emerges as the fastest-growing market in Europe's contract packaging sector, demonstrating remarkable advancement in packaging innovation and sustainability practices. The country has positioned itself as a key hub for third-party packaging companies, particularly in food and pharmaceutical sectors. The market is projected to grow at approximately 12% annually from 2024 to 2029. This growth is supported by the country's strategic location, excellent logistics infrastructure, and increasing adoption of advanced packaging technologies. The Dutch market particularly excels in sustainable packaging solutions and innovative packaging formats.

Contract Packaging Market in Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving contract packaging market, characterized by increasing industrialization and growing demand across various end-user industries. China, India, and Japan emerge as the key markets, each contributing significantly to the regional growth story. The region's market is driven by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and growing adoption of modern retail practices. The market demonstrates strong potential for growth, particularly in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors.

Contract Packaging Market in China

China dominates the Asia-Pacific contract packaging market landscape, leveraging its vast manufacturing capabilities and expanding consumer market. The country's contract packaging sector is characterized by rapid technological adoption and increasing focus on quality standards. The market demonstrates particular strength in food and beverage packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, and consumer goods sectors. China's position is supported by its robust supply chain infrastructure and growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions.

Contract Packaging Market in India

India emerges as the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region's contract packaging sector, driven by rapid industrialization and increasing demand for packaged products. The country's market shows particular strength in pharmaceutical packaging, food and beverage sectors, and personal care products. The growth is supported by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing e-commerce sector. India's contract packaging industry is characterized by increasing adoption of modern packaging technologies and focus on sustainable packaging solutions.

Contract Packaging Market in Latin America

The Latin American contract packaging market demonstrates significant growth potential, driven by increasing demand across various end-user industries. The region's market is characterized by growing adoption of modern packaging technologies and increasing focus on quality standards. The market shows particular strength in food and beverage packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, and personal care products. The region's contract packaging industry is adapting to changing consumer preferences and increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, while also responding to the growing e-commerce sector's needs.

Contract Packaging Market in Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region's contract packaging market shows promising development, particularly in bottling and filling services. The region's market is characterized by increasing investments in packaging infrastructure and growing adoption of modern packaging technologies. The market demonstrates particular strength in food and beverage packaging, with significant growth in pharmaceutical and personal care sectors. The region's contract packaging industry is adapting to changing market demands while focusing on quality standards and efficiency in packaging operations.

Contract Packaging Industry Overview

Top Companies in Contract Packaging Market

The contract packaging companies market features established players like Aaron Thomas Company, Multipack Solutions, Pharma Tech Industries, Reed-Lane, Sharp Packaging Services, and UNICEP Packaging, among others. These companies are driving innovation through advanced packaging technologies such as serialization, digital printing, and automated production lines to enhance operational efficiency. Strategic focus areas include sustainable packaging solutions, eco-friendly materials, and customized packaging designs to meet evolving client needs. Companies are expanding their facilities and production capabilities while investing in cleanroom infrastructure and specialized equipment for pharmaceutical and food packaging. The industry is witnessing increased adoption of smart packaging solutions, connected packaging technologies, and quality management systems to ensure regulatory compliance and product safety.

Dynamic Market Structure Drives Strategic Growth

The contract packaging landscape exhibits a mix of global conglomerates and specialized regional players operating across different end-user segments. Large multinational companies leverage their extensive infrastructure and technological capabilities to serve the pharmaceutical and food & beverage sectors, while regional specialists focus on niche markets and customized solutions. The market structure is gradually consolidating through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, particularly evident in regions like North America and Europe, where companies are expanding their service portfolios and geographical presence.


The industry is characterized by increasing collaboration between contract packagers and logistics providers, creating integrated service offerings that combine packaging, warehousing, and distribution capabilities. Companies are establishing strategic partnerships to enhance their market presence and technical expertise, while also investing in research and development to develop innovative packaging solutions. The market is witnessing a trend toward vertical integration as third-party logistics providers enter the contract packaging organization space, offering end-to-end supply chain solutions to clients.

Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success

Success in the contract packaging market increasingly depends on companies' ability to offer sustainable solutions while maintaining operational efficiency. Market leaders are investing in eco-friendly packaging materials, automated production systems, and digital technologies to strengthen their competitive position. Companies focusing on specialized capabilities in areas like sterile packaging, cold chain solutions, and smart packaging are gaining competitive advantages. The ability to provide flexible, scalable solutions while maintaining regulatory compliance and quality standards is becoming crucial for market success.


For new entrants and growing players, differentiation through technological innovation and specialized service offerings presents opportunities for market expansion. Companies need to focus on building strong relationships with end-users while investing in quality management systems and regulatory compliance capabilities. The increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions and the growing complexity of packaging requirements in the pharmaceutical and food sectors create opportunities for specialized service providers. Success factors include the ability to adapt to changing regulatory requirements, invest in advanced technologies, and maintain cost competitiveness while meeting increasing quality standards. The contract packaging association plays a pivotal role in setting industry standards and promoting best practices.

Contract Packaging Market Leaders

  1. Aaron Thomas Company

  2. Multipack Solutions LLC

  3. Pharma Tech Industries Inc.

  4. UNICEP Packaging LLC

  5. Jones Packaging Inc.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Global Contract Packaging Market Concentration
Need More Details on Market Players and Competiters?
Download PDF

Contract Packaging Market News

May 2024: Tide Rock, a US-based buyout firm, announced the acquisition of Premier Packaging LLC, a contract packaging company. The acquisition will likely enhance Tide Rock's customer base as it will leverage Premier's contract packaging capabilities and help take its services to the next level in the North American market.

February 2024: WePack, an independent contract packing company, partnered with software provider Nulogy to digitalize its contract packing operations. The digitalization effort intends to enhance visibility and traceability over inventory and materials and improve forecasting, labor capacity, line efficiency, and quality control. The implementation at WePack's East Midlands, United Kingdom, production site was expected to be completed by Q2 2024.

Contract 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
  • 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 Substitute Products
    • 4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
  • 4.3 Industry Value Chain Analysis

5. MARKET DYNAMICS

  • 5.1 Market Drivers
    • 5.1.1 Companies Looking to Gain a Competitive Advantage by Outsourcing Non-core Operations
    • 5.1.2 Increasing Demand from the E-commerce Industry
    • 5.1.3 Increasing Need for Latest Technologies and Innovative Packaging
  • 5.2 Market Restraints
    • 5.2.1 Stringent Government Regulations
    • 5.2.2 Competition from In-house Packaging
  • 5.3 Industry Regulations and Standards
  • 5.4 Evolution of Contract Packaging

6. MARKET SEGMENTATION

  • 6.1 By Packaging
    • 6.1.1 Primary
    • 6.1.2 Secondary
    • 6.1.3 Tertiary
  • 6.2 By End-user Industry
    • 6.2.1 Food
    • 6.2.2 Beverage
    • 6.2.3 Pharmaceutical
    • 6.2.4 Household and Personal Care
    • 6.2.5 Other End-user Industries
  • 6.3 By Geography
    • 6.3.1 North America
    • 6.3.1.1 United States
    • 6.3.1.2 Canada
    • 6.3.2 Europe
    • 6.3.2.1 Germany
    • 6.3.2.2 United Kingdom
    • 6.3.2.3 France
    • 6.3.2.4 Netherlands
    • 6.3.2.5 Italy
    • 6.3.2.6 Spain
    • 6.3.2.7 Rest of Europe
    • 6.3.3 Asia-Pacific
    • 6.3.3.1 China
    • 6.3.3.2 India
    • 6.3.3.3 Japan
    • 6.3.3.4 Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • 6.3.4 Latin America
    • 6.3.5 Middle East and Africa

7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 7.1 Company Profiles
    • 7.1.1 Aaron Thomas Company
    • 7.1.2 Multipack Solutions LLC
    • 7.1.3 Pharma Tech Industries Inc.
    • 7.1.4 Reed Lane Inc.
    • 7.1.5 Sharp Packaging Services
    • 7.1.6 UNICEP Packaging LLC
    • 7.1.7 Green Packaging Asia
    • 7.1.8 Jones Healthcare Group
    • 7.1.9 Stamar Packaging Inc.
    • 7.1.10 Budelpack Poortvliet BV
    • 7.1.11 Complete Co-Packing Services Ltd
  • *List Not Exhaustive

8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS

9. FUTURE OUTLOOK

You Can Purchase Parts Of This Report. Check Out Prices For Specific Sections
Get Price Break-up Now

Contract Packaging Industry Segmentation

Contract packaging is the process of assembling a product and putting it into its final finished packaging. Depending on the product, the final packaging constitutes a variety of forms, such as thermoformed/plastic clamshell/blister packaging, a plastic bag, a standing corrugated retail point-of-sale display, or a transport tray.

The contract packaging market is segmented by packaging (primary, secondary, and tertiary), end-user industry (food, beverage, pharmaceutical, household and personal care, and other end-user industries), and geography (North America (United States and Canada), Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America, and Middle East and Africa). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.

By Packaging Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
By End-user Industry Food
Beverage
Pharmaceutical
Household and Personal Care
Other End-user Industries
By Geography North America United States
Canada
Europe Germany
United Kingdom
France
Netherlands
Italy
Spain
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Rest of Asia-Pacific
Latin America
Middle East and Africa
Need A Different Region or Segment?
Customize Now

Contract Packaging Market Research FAQs

How big is the Contract Packaging Market?

The Contract Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 79.69 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 8.69% to reach USD 120.88 billion by 2030.

What is the current Contract Packaging Market size?

In 2025, the Contract Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 79.69 billion.

Who are the key players in Contract Packaging Market?

Aaron Thomas Company, Multipack Solutions LLC, Pharma Tech Industries Inc., UNICEP Packaging LLC and Jones Packaging Inc. are the major companies operating in the Contract Packaging Market.

Which is the fastest growing region in Contract Packaging Market?

Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).

Which region has the biggest share in Contract Packaging Market?

In 2025, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Contract Packaging Market.

What years does this Contract Packaging Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?

In 2024, the Contract Packaging Market size was estimated at USD 72.76 billion. The report covers the Contract Packaging Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Contract Packaging Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

Contract Packaging Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the contract packaging market, utilizing extensive expertise in packaging market research and consulting. Our detailed examination covers the entire ecosystem of contract packagers and contract packaging companies. This includes third party packaging operations and specialized segments such as pharmaceutical contract packaging. The report offers an in-depth analysis of contract packaging trends across various sectors, from contract bagging to sophisticated co-packaging solutions. It is available in an easy-to-download report PDF format.

Our research benefits stakeholders across the contract packaging industry, ranging from packaging outsourcing companies to end-users seeking providers of contract packaging services. The analysis covers key regions, including the North America contract packaging market and European markets. It provides detailed coverage of primary co-packing for food market segments in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. The report examines innovative packaging industry developments, offering strategic insights for contract packaging manufacturers. It also aids organizations looking to optimize their operations through third party packaging companies and specialized service providers.