Europe Packaging Market Insights in 2025

Europe Packaging Market 2025 Growth Accelerates with New EU Waste Regulations and Smart Packaging Trends

From 2025 to 2034, the global Europe packaging market market is set for a massive revenue upswing, with projections of growth reaching hundreds of millions of dollars. In 2024, Western Europe led with 43% market share, driven by rigid plastic packaging and primary packaging use. From 2025–2034, growth is expected in Eastern Europe, flexible and compostable packaging, e-commerce, and smart packaging technologies.

Last Updated: 01 August 2025 Category: Packaging Forms Insight Code: 5740 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

The Europe packaging market market is accelerating, with forecasts predicting hundreds of millions in revenue growth between 2025 and 2034, powering sustainable infrastructure globally. The increased demand for advanced packaging solutions in various end-user industries like food & beverages and pharmaceutical companies is driving the European packaging market.

Europe is the hub for robust packaging manufacturers and strict government regulation, emphasizing the development of biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable packaging solutions in the region. EU regulations like the single-use plastic directive and the packaging and packaging waste directive are fueling the sustainability trends. The Europe packaging market is a demonstration of sustainability and eco-friendliness demands.

Key Insights

  • Western Europe dominated the market by holding more than 43% of the revenue share in 2024.
  • Eastern Europe is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
  • By packaging type, the rigid packaging (bottles & containers) segment contributed 28% revenue share in 2024.
  • By packaging type, the flexible packaging (pouches) segment will be expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By material, the plastic (PET) segment contributed the biggest revenue share of 32% in 2024.
  • By packaging function, the primary packaging (direct contact with product) segment contributed the biggest revenue share of 50% in 2024.
  • By packaging function, the tertiary packaging (bulk transport, pallets) segment is expected to expand at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By technology, the modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) segment contributed the biggest revenue share of 24% in 2024.
  • By technology, the active & intelligent Packaging segment is expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By sustainability type, the recyclable segment contributed the biggest market share of 47% in 2024.
  • By sustainability type, the compostable segment will be expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By end-use industry, the food & beverage segment held the major revenue share of 42% in 2024.
  • By end-use industry, the e-commerce & retail segment is projected to grow at a rapid CAGR between 2025 and 2034.

Strict Regulations to Boost European Packaging Market

The Europe packaging market encompasses the production and distribution of materials and solutions used to contain, protect, transport, and present goods across industries, including food & beverage, healthcare, cosmetics, industrial, and consumer goods. This includes primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging, with innovations focusing on sustainability, lightweighting, and smart functionality driven by stringent EU regulations and shifting consumer behavior.

The ongoing innovations in glass packaging, paper & paperboard packaging, and food packaging solutions are driving the market expansion. The European manufacturers have a strong focus on safe, convenient, and more sustainable packaging solutions, bringing significant innovations to the market. Europe is continuously working on implementing and enhancing global standards for sustainable packaging.

  • On February 11, 2025, the EU’s regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste came into force, marking a spectacular shift toward a circular economy by implementing novel rules and standards for packaging solutions across Europe. The regulation has set new packaging waste laws for recyclability, chemical safety, and reusability, and is fueling a shift in the global supply chain. This regulation is expected to be fully applicable from August 12, 2026. 

Demand for Sustainable Solutions

  • The demand for sustainable packaging solutions is wide in Europe, with a strong push in recyclable, biodegradable, and plastic-free packaging solutions, to bring significant innovation in the emerging market.

Lightweight and Flexible Packaging

Digital Printing and Smart Packaging

  • Companies' heavy investments in cutting-edge technologies like digital packaging, automation, and smart packaging to improve efficiency, sustainability, and allow consumers to experience personalized experiences are fueling the market.

How is AI Transforming the Europe Packaging Market?

The Europe packaging market is witnessing significant expansion with the rising adoption of AI technology in manufacturing firms. The changing consumer lifestyles, growing unique demands, regulatory compliance, and companies' aim to reduce environmental impacts have shifted them toward the adoption of AI for more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging. AI is playing a crucial role in complying with regularity requirements by providing excellent control on quality, inspection, packaging designs, and supply chain optimization. The growing surge in customization and creation of smart packaging is leveraging robust opportunities for AI in the European packaging market. The liquid packaging segment is holding the largest traction in the European market.

Market Dynamics

Driver

Innovative Solutions for Modern Challenges

The rapid development of innovative solutions for modern challenges, including demand for lightweight and flexible packaging solutions, is the major driver of the market. This trend is fulfilling for rising consumer demand for cost-effective and more efficient solutions. European companies are focusing on the adoption of advanced eco-friendly materials and particles to reduce environmental footprints and meet modern packaging demands. Additionally, technological advancements in materials and manufacturing processes and bringing significant innovations to the regional market.

Restraint

Stringent Environmental Regulations

The strict environmental regulations, like recyclability requirements, extended producer responsibility, labeling requirements, minimum recycled content, and restrictions on single-use plastics, are the major challenges for European packaging manufacturers. Regional manufacturers are mandatory to use sustainable packaging materials to reduce plastic waste and reduce environmental impact. The European recycling target for various packaging solutions by 2030 further contributes to the market pressure.

Opportunity

Sustainability Trends

The changing consumer preference for recyclable, reusable, and biodegradable packaging solutions and strict environmental regulations are creating significant opportunities for local manufacturers to bring novel innovations in the emerging market. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to develop novel and innovative materials to meet sustainability demands. Additionally, growing consumer demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions is encouraging manufacturers to adopt biodegradable and recyclable materials in their packaging solutions.

2025 European Regulations for Waste Management

  • On October 1, 2025, Denmark will introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging, highlighting a new era in waste management. Under these regulations, manufacturers will be mandatory to develop recyclable packaging solutions
  • In January 2025, Spain implemented Royal Decree 1055/2022, new packaging regulations for labeling obligations to support the country's goal of better trash management and circular economy.

Segment Insights

Which Packaging Type Dominated the Europe Packaging Market in 2024?

In 2024, the rigid packaging segment dominated the market, due to the large adoption of rigid packaging solutions and industries like food and beverage, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. The rigid packaging includes bottles & jars, cans, trays & clamshells, boxes & containers, where the bottles & containers segment held a large market share in 2024, due to increased adoption of bottles and containers and the food and beverage and pharmaceutical industry, with a strong focus on sustainable and recyclable packaging.

The flexible packaging segment is the fastest-growing segment of the market, driven by increasing segment popularity for its efficiency, convenience, and sustainability. Flexible packaging solutions are more efficient and cost-effective. The flexible packaging segment involves pouches, sachets, wraps & films, and bags, where the pouches sub-segment leads the market with its lightweight nature, ideal for food & beverage, personal care, and pharmaceutical product packaging.

What Made the Plastic Material Segment Dominant in the Europe Packaging Market?

The plastic segment dominated the market in 2024, due to the high durability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility of plastic materials. The technological advancements in plastic materials like bioplastics and recyclable plastics are contributing to the segment's growth. The PET is the largest sub-segment contributing to the market growth, due to increased demand for lightweight, recyclable, and transparent packaging solutions.

Which Packaging Function Segment Leads the Europe Packaging Market in 2024?

In 2024, the primary packaging (direct contact with product) segment led the market, due to increased demand for innovative, sustainable, and safe packaging solutions. Primary packaging offers a customized design with a focus on customization and great functionality. The rising need for aesthetic packaging solutions is supporting the segment's growth.

The tertiary packaging (bulk transport, pallets) segment is the second-largest segment, leading the market, due to the large need for tertiary packaging solutions in safe and efficient handling and transportation of products. The tertiary packaging offers strong protection to goods while shipping, distribution, and streamlining logistics. The growing logistics and warehousing activities are driving demand for tertiary packaging solutions.

Which Technology Segment Will Hold the Largest Revenue of the European Market in 2024?

The modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) segment holds the largest market revenue in 2024, due to its increased adoption and the packaging industry reducing packaging waste and extending shelf life, the demand for fresh and quality packaging has increased, especially in the food and beverage industry, contributing to this segment's growth. Additionally, with the focus on technological advancements like smart packaging and digital printing, the segment is expected to grow continuously in the market.

The active & intelligent packaging segment is expected to go fastest over the forecast period, due to increased demand for safe, convenient, and sustainable packaging. The increasing growth in demand for ready-to-eat meals and the expansion of e-commerce have increased the adoption of active and intelligent packaging technology. Food and beverage, healthcare, personal care and cosmetics, pharmaceutical industry, and consumer electronics are the major drivers of the segment.

What Made Recyclable Sustainability Type Lead the Europe Packaging Market?

The recyclable segment led the market in 2024, due to increased demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions and strict environmental regulations. The consumer preference for eco-friendly products has taken a significant place in Europe, driven by increased environmental awareness. The use of single-use plastic is reducing, and recyclable packaging is gaining traction in the European market, driven by countries' efforts in promoting circular economy practices. Moreover, the technological advancements in recyclable materials like PET and paper-based packaging are developing innovative solutions.

How Food & Beverages End-use Industry Dominated the Europe Packaging Market in 2024?

The food & beverage segment dominated the market in 2024, due to its high consumption of packaging solutions. The growth in consumption of shelf-stable food and beverages and demand for processed foods has increased the adoption of innovative packaging solutions. The European Food and beverage industry is experiencing high growth for sustainable, diverse, innovative, and eco-friendly packaging solutions, contributing to the market growth.

The e-commerce & retail segment is expected to lead the market over the forecast period, driven by changing consumer preferences and increasing online shopping activities. E-commerce and retail are major consumers of robust packaging solutions, which are essential for shipping and handling. The focus of e-commerce and the retail sector on providing customized and branding experiences is contributing to the adoption of aesthetic and customized packaging solutions.

With novel EU packaging regulations coming into force, the cross-border e-commerce business is facing challenges with logistics and compliance. However, companies' partnerships with professional logistics providers are projected to enhance the e-commerce industry.

Regional Insights

Western Europe Packaging Market

The western countries, including the UK, France, Netherlands, Germany, and Italy, dominated the European packaging market, due to countries robust packaging manufacturing base. The strong investments in sustainable practices and strong EU regulations are contributing to the market growth. Additionally, companies that focus on increasing manufacturing capabilities are supporting Western countries' position in the European market.

Eastern Europe Packaging Market

The eastern European countries, including Belarus, Ukraine, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, and Poland, are contributing to the Europe packaging market growth with countries' strong focus on sustainability and circular economy. The expanding e-commerce industry and demand for efficient packaging solutions are fueling the market growth. Additionally, with companies' focus on expanding their capabilities and strengthening their position in the market, it is expected to provide significant innovations and developments in the emerging market.

Europe Packaging Market Key Players

Europe Packaging Market Top Key Players

  • Amcor plc
  • Mondi Group
  • Smurfit Kappa Group
  • DS Smith Plc
  • Huhtamaki Oyj
  • Constantia Flexibles
  • Berry Global Inc.
  • Stora Enso Oyj
  • Sonoco Products Company
  • Tetra Pak International S.A.
  • RPC Group (part of Berry)
  • Sealed Air Corporation
  • SIG Combibloc Group AG
  • ALPLA Group
  • AptarGroup, Inc.
  • Greiner Packaging
  • Winpak Ltd.
  • Schur Flexibles Group
  • Graphic Packaging International
  • Coveris Holdings S.A.

Latest Announcements by Industry Leaders

  • In May 2025, Tobias Acker, Market Product Manager for Beverages at Constantia Flexibles, gave statements on companies significant achievements that the company's latest EcoVerHighPlus packaging project highlights the positive influence of close collaborative approaches.

Recent Developments

  • In June 2025, a global packaging solutions provider, Amcor, launched sustainable packaging solutions for Butterball’s turkey breast offerings. The packaging is anticipated to reduce the use of materials and enhance efficiency more than traditional methods.
  • In May 2025, Constantia Flexibles implemented its innovative mono PP laminate, EcoVerHighPlus, for transforming coffee packaging, in collaboration with Delica AG, which belongs to the group Migros Industries AG.

Europe Packaging Market Segments

By Packaging Type

  • Flexible Packaging
    • Pouches (stand-up, flat)
    • Sachets
    • Wraps & Films
    • Bags (retort, vacuum, shrink, zip lock)
  • Rigid Packaging
    • Bottles & Jars
    • Cans
    • Trays & Clamshells
    • Boxes & Containers
  • Semi-Rigid Packaging
    • Blister Packs
    • Trays
    • Tubes

By Material

  • Plastic
    • Polyethylene (PE)
    • Polypropylene (PP)
    • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
    • Polystyrene (PS)
    • Bioplastics
  • Paper & Paperboard
    • Coated Paperboard
    • Corrugated Board
    • Kraft Paper
  • Glass
    • Flint
    • Amber
    • Green
  • Metal
    • Aluminum
    • Steel (Tinplate, Tin-Free Steel)
  • Others
    • Wood (crates, pallets)
  • Textile (woven sacks, reusable bags)

By Packaging Function

  • Primary Packaging (direct contact with product)
  • Secondary Packaging (bundling, branding)
  • Tertiary Packaging (bulk transport, pallets)

By End-Use Industry

  • Food & Beverage
    • Dairy
    • Bakery & Confectionery
    • Meat & Seafood
    • Fruits & Vegetables
    • Ready-to-eat
    • Non-alcoholic Beverages
    • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
    • Prescription Drugs
    • OTC Products
    • Medical Devices
  • Personal Care & Cosmetics
    • Skincare
    • Haircare
    • Fragrance
  • Household Products
    • Cleaning Agents
    • Laundry Products
  • Industrial & Chemicals
    • Lubricants
    • Agrochemicals
    • Paints & Coatings
  • E-commerce & Retail
  • Automotive & Electronics

By Technology

  • Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
  • Aseptic Packaging
  • Active & Intelligent Packaging
  • Vacuum Packaging
  • Cold Chain Packaging
  • Anti-Counterfeit Packaging (RFID, NFC)

By Sustainability Type

  • Recyclable
  • Reusable
  • Compostable/Biodegradable
  • Mono-material
  • Lightweight Packaging

By Region

  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • Northern Europe
  • Southern Europe
  • Central Europe
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  • Insight Code: 5740
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Last Updated: 01 August 2025
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The Europe packaging market is expected to witness substantial revenue growth, driven by sustainability trends, regulatory compliance, and innovations across packaging materials and technologies.

Western Europe led the market, accounting for over 43% of the revenue share in 2024, due to strong manufacturing infrastructure and stringent regulatory frameworks.

The market is primarily driven by rising demand for sustainable, smart, and regulatory-compliant packaging solutions across key industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. Stringent EU directives (e.g., packaging waste regulations, EPR laws) and consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging are catalyzing this growth.

Rigid packaging remains dominant due to high adoption in F&B and pharma sectors, especially bottles and containers. However, flexible packaging (e.g., pouches and sachets) is expanding rapidly due to its lightweight, cost-effective, and sustainable advantages.

Plastic remains dominant (32% share in 2024), led by PET for its recyclability and lightweight properties. However, demand for bioplastics, paperboard, and glass is increasing as sustainability targets tighten.

The F&B sector held the largest market share (42% in 2024), fueled by growing demand for shelf-stable and ready-to-eat foods. This drives demand for MAP, flexible, and recyclable packaging that preserves product freshness while meeting environmental standards.

AI is enhancing efficiency in design, quality control, and supply chain optimization. Meanwhile, smart packaging technologies (RFID, NFC, intelligent sensors) are transforming user experience, traceability, and product safety—especially in pharma and food sectors.

Western Europe (e.g., Germany, UK, France) dominates due to strong infrastructure, innovation, and compliance readiness. Eastern Europe is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR owing to rapid industrialization, sustainability focus, and rising e-commerce penetration.