Produce Packaging Market Size
Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
Market Size (2024) | USD 37.75 Billion |
Market Size (2029) | USD 46.20 Billion |
CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 4.12 % |
Fastest Growing Market | North America |
Largest Market | Asia-Pacific |
Major Players*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
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Produce Packaging Market Analysis
The Produce Packaging Market size is estimated at USD 37.75 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 46.20 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.12% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
Produce packaging ensures appropriate packaging for fresh vegetables and fruits. The growing demand for fresh fruits and organic products influences the demand for produce packaging.
- Produce packaging refers to packaging for fresh produce using various materials to protect it from physical damage. Packaging plays a pivotal role in lengthening a product’s shelf life by preserving valuable nutrients of the produce and retaining its freshness. Growing demand for ready-to-eat meals drives the produce packaging market for fresh fruits or pre-cooked vegetables.
- The growing investment in technology for produce packaging drives market growth. Companies such as Point Five Packaging (a United States-based company) use modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technology, which decreases the oxidation process for fresh produce, keeping them from degrading as quickly as possible to extend shelf life. Additionally, technology significantly reduces the risk of contamination from environmental factors, including chemicals, moisture, and ultraviolet (UV) light.
- Suitable packaging is crucial to obtain optimal shelf-life and minimize physical damage to fresh produce. Cardboard is the most common type of packaging used. However, it also requires additional internal packaging materials, such as tissue wrapping, cups, and pads.
- Many companies in the market are aiming to improve the shelf life of fresh produce by using corrugated packaging. For instance, in January 2024, Cascades Inc., a Canadian company, launched new produce basket packaging designs made from 100% recycled fiber, which aligns with the company's circular economy approach. The new packaging line features a corrugated basket that prevents products from falling and keeps the fruits and vegetables intact throughout transportation and storage.
- The use of plastic containers for produce packaging can negatively impact the environment. Many retailers provide single-use plastic packaging for fruits and vegetables that cannot be recycled. Additionally, the use of plastic bags does not necessarily protect vegetables or fruits from being bruised, thus restraining the demand for plastic bags. In addition, several governments are banning single-use plastic bags. In August 2023, France announced the ban on plastic packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce plastic waste and its impact on the environment, which can impact the market’s growth.
Produce Packaging Market Trends
Corrugated Boxes as a Packaging Material Type May Register a Significant Share in the Market
- Corrugated boxes consist of two paper liners glued to a corrugated inner 'fluting,' forming connected arches for added strength. These boxes are versatile, as the corrugated board can be tailored to create custom containers, with printing options varying based on design and production scale. Corrugated boxes are primarily used for fresh produce and offer ventilation, moisture resistance, and protective qualities.
- These boxes are not just about functionality. They are designed to enhance protection and optimize shipping efficiency, thus bolstering their demand. Corrugated boxes can be tailored in shape, size, and style to meet diverse product needs. The paper components used in their construction are food-safe, ensuring product integrity.
- Leading providers in the market, like Amcor Group and Thimm Group, specialize in manufacturing recyclable corrugated cardboard. With its high recycling rate, this eco-friendly material is a sustainable alternative to plastic. These cardboard solutions also offer flexibility, allowing for tailored printing and coating options.
- The growing demand for produce packaging in North America expands the need for paper and paperboard material to make corrugated boxes and containers. According to data by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (United States), paperboard container manufacturing in the United States was at 89.50 million ton in Q1 2023 and reached 90 million tons in Q4 2023. Additionally, stringent government regulations for plastic packaging boost the demand for corrugated packaging globally.
Asia-Pacific to Witness Significant Growth in the Market
- Asia-Pacific is expected to account for a significant market share due to increased packaging demand for produce items such as apples, pears, and sweet potatoes and the rising demand for cut and shredded produce that uses convenience packaging.
- In Asia-Pacific, shifting consumer behavior is creating demand for fresh produce packaging. Fresh produce is sold in various forms of packaging in the region, including pouches, bags, and rigid plastic containers, as well as more intensive packaging that provides ease of use, convenience, superior performance, and improved shelf-life and environmental footprint.
- Asian countries, including China, India, Japan, and South Korea, have a growing interest in organic vegetable and fruit production. Additionally, according to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization in the United States (FAO), 99% of tropical fruit production is from Asia-Pacific and Latin America, thus propelling the exports of fresh tropical fruits and boosting the demand for produce packaging.
- According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables after China, providing the former with ample export opportunities. During 2022-2023, India exported USD 1,635.95 million worth of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Produce Packaging Industry Overview
The produce packaging market is characterized by differentiation, growing service penetration, and high levels of competition. Design, technology, and application innovation can gain a sustainable competitive advantage. The market for produce packaging is fragmented as there are several players vying for higher market share. However, short product development cycles and higher exit barriers are affecting key players in the market. Overall, the intensity of competitive rivalry is expected to be high.
- In May 2024, Mondi PLC, a United Kingdom-based packaging company, partnered with Scan Sverige, a Sweden-based company, to create a polypropylene (PP)-based mono-material packaging for food packaging, including plant-based foods, salami, and sliced ham. The packaging was developed for recycling and has a high oxygen and moisture barrier to protect food and keep it fresh.
Produce Packaging Market Leaders
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Amcor PLC
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Berry Global Inc
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International Paper Company
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Sonoco Products Company
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Mondi PLC
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Produce Packaging Market News
- March 2024: Parkside Flexibles, a United Kingdom-based company, launched Popflex, a recyclable lidding film designed for fresh produce packers. Popflex is made using recyclable PET (polyethylene terephthalate) with a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. The product uses Parkside's patented ParkScribe technology, which creates a laser-scored opening flap for consumers to access the produce.
- March 2024: Zespri International, a New Zealand-based company, launched a limited-edition pillbox-shaped fruit packaging case to encourage consumers' fruit-eating habits, making fruit consumption an enjoyable part of daily routine. The fruit pillbox features seven compartments labeled Monday through Sunday, each containing kiwi fruit.
Produce 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 Value Chain Analysis
4.3 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
4.3.1 Threat of New Entrants
4.3.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
4.3.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
4.3.4 Threat of Substitute Products
4.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
4.4 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
5.1 Market Drivers
5.1.1 Growing Need Among Consumers for Healthier Lifestyle
5.1.2 Increased Organic Production Worldwide
5.2 Market Challenges
5.2.1 Complexity in Providing Increased Shelf-Life to the Produce Packaging
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
6.1 By Packaging Material Type
6.1.1 Plastic Containers
6.1.2 Corrugated Boxes
6.1.3 Bags and Pouches
6.1.4 Film Lidding and Laminates
6.1.5 Trays
6.2 By Application
6.2.1 Fruits
6.2.2 Vegetables
6.3 By Geography
6.3.1 North America
6.3.2 Europe
6.3.3 Asia-Pacific
6.3.4 Middle East and Africa
6.3.5 Latin America
7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
7.1 Vendor Ranking Analysis
7.2 Company Profiles
7.2.1 Amcor PLC
7.2.2 Berry Global Inc.
7.2.3 International Paper Company
7.2.4 Sonoco Products Company
7.2.5 Reynolds Consumer Products Inc.
7.2.6 WestRock Company
7.2.7 Mondi PLC
7.2.8 Sealed Air Corporation
7.2.9 Smurfit Kappa Group
7.2.10 Coveris Holding SA
- *List Not Exhaustive
8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
9. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Produce Packaging Industry Segmentation
The produce packaging includes various packaging material types such as plastic containers, corrugated boxes, bags and pouches, lidding films and laminates, and trays that are used and assembled to bundle, pack, label, or sleeve fresh produce (fruits and vegetables). Produce packaging offers numerous benefits for fresh produce, such as protection from physical damage, prevention of contamination, labeling and marketing potential, improved shelf life, and reduction in food wastage.
The produce packaging market is segmented by packaging material type (plastic containers, corrugated boxes, bags and pouches, lidding films and laminates, and trays), application (fruits and vegetables), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.
By Packaging Material Type | |
Plastic Containers | |
Corrugated Boxes | |
Bags and Pouches | |
Film Lidding and Laminates | |
Trays |
By Application | |
Fruits | |
Vegetables |
By Geography | |
North America | |
Europe | |
Asia-Pacific | |
Middle East and Africa | |
Latin America |
Produce Packaging Market Research FAQs
How big is the Produce Packaging Market?
The Produce Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 37.75 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 4.12% to reach USD 46.20 billion by 2029.
What is the current Produce Packaging Market size?
In 2024, the Produce Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 37.75 billion.
Who are the key players in Produce Packaging Market?
Amcor PLC, Berry Global Inc, International Paper Company, Sonoco Products Company and Mondi PLC are the major companies operating in the Produce Packaging Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Produce Packaging Market?
North America is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029).
Which region has the biggest share in Produce Packaging Market?
In 2024, the Asia-Pacific accounts for the largest market share in Produce Packaging Market.
What years does this Produce Packaging Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023?
In 2023, the Produce Packaging Market size was estimated at USD 36.19 billion. The report covers the Produce Packaging Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the Produce Packaging Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
Produce Packaging Industry Report
Statistics for the 2023 Produce Packaging market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. Produce Packaging analysis includes a market forecast outlook to 2029 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.