Foam Cushioning Market
Updated Date : 02 January 2026   |   Report Code : 5937

Foam Cushioning Market Size, Trends, Share, Trends, Segments, and Regional Insights (NA, EU, APAC, LA, MEA)

The global foam cushioning market, valued at USD 8.44 billion in 2025, is anticipated to reach USD 14.34 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.45% over the next decade. In 2025, Asia Pacific leads the market, while North America grows fastest through 2035. PE foam, foam sheets and rolls, protective packaging, and e-commerce dominate, with EPP foam, wraps, electronics, and industrial uses growing rapidly.

Last Updated: 02 January 2026 Category: Material Packaging Insight Code: 5937 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Foam Cushioning Market Growth, Demand and Production Forecast

The foam cushioning market is forecasted to expand from USD 8.9 billion in 2026 to USD 14.34 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.45% from 2026 to 2035. The foam cushioning industry is witnessing a major development due to develop urges for protective packaging solutions across different sectors like electronics, cosmetics, and food & beverage.

Foam Cushioning Market Size 2025 - 2035

Major Key Insights of the Foam Cushioning Market

  • In terms of revenue, the market is valued at USD 8.9 billion in 2026.
  • The market is projected to reach USD 14.34 billion by 2035.
  • Rapid growth at a CAGR of 5.45% will be observed in the period between 2026 and 2035.
  • By region, Asia Pacific has dominated the global market by holding the highest market share in 2025.
  • By region, North America is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2035.
  • By foam material, the polyethylene (PE) foam segment is expected to hold the largest market share in 2025.
  • By foam material, the EPP (Expandable Polypropylene) foam segment will be developing at a significant CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
  • By product type, the foam sheets and rolls segment is predicted to carry the biggest market share in 2025.
  • By product type, the foam wraps segment will be growing at a significant CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
  • By application, the protective packaging segment is expected to hold the largest market share in 2025.
  • By application, the electronics & appliances protection segment will be growing at a significant CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
  • By end -user, the e-commerce & retail Packaging segment is predicted to carry the biggest market share in 2025.
  • By end-user, the industrial & machinery segment will be developing at a significant CAGR between 2026 and 2035.

What is the Foam Cushioning Market?

The foam cushioning market is a segment of the huge polymer foam sector that is focused on manufacturing and serving foam materials that are crafted for assistance, comfort, and shock absorption across different end-use fields. It is a main and developing market, which is being driven by the uses in furniture and bedding, packaging, automotive interiors, and medical devices too.

  • Lightweighting & Performance Enhancement: Lightweight foams are widely used in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and packaging. Their applications assist in lowering the complete product weight, resulting in less fuel usage and decreased emissions, too. In automotive uses, for instance, such materials assist in developing noise, harshness performance, and vibration too.
  • Sustainable and Recyclable Materials: Environmental responsibility is at the forefront of the foam invention. The sector is experiencing a major move towards closed-loop recycling and the acceptance of bio-based materials. Inventions such as chemically recycled polyurethanes and bio-based foams are paving the path for the circular economy.
  • Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Integration: Robotics, automation, and 3D printing are quickly changing foam manufacturing. Such digital tools allow for accurate control over foam formulations and use procedure, too, which lowers the waste and develops efficiency. As makers include AI-driven manufacturing operations and digital research and development, partnerships across the value chain develop, which ensure the latest foam technologies are quickly applied to solve the developing market urges.
  • Market Growth Overview: The market is growing as businesses find relevant and cost-effective protective packaging to match the developing user demand. Eco-friendly issues are encouraging market trends that are towards recyclable and sustainable foam materials, which is assisted by government initiatives that promote environmentally friendly practices.
  • Global Expansion: The worldwide foam cushioning sector is developing quickly, which is being driven by the rising bedding, furniture, packaging, automotive, and various other industries, along with growing healthcare demands like geriatrics, e-commerce development, and wound care too.
  • Major Market Players: The major market players in the foam cushioning industry are from worldwide material and chemical corporations that include the Dow Chemical Company, BASF SE, Covestro AG, Huntsman Corporation, and Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd.
  • Startup Ecosystem: The startup ecosystem in the foam cushioning sector is growing and developing, which is driven by a rigid concentration on technological invention, sustainability, and tailored product customization, too.

Technological Developments in the Foam Cushioning Market

As the worldwide attention moves towards sustainability, foam producers will concentrate on growing environmentally friendly alternatives to regular PU foams. The eco-foam items are generally created with renewable or recycled raw materials, which lowers the environmental impact. Such inventive solutions assist the address by developing the user's urge for green items without compromising the performance and quality of the flexible foams.

Producers of foam are coordinating closely with the producers to serve the bio-based options, making sure that organizations in the automotive, furniture, and packaging industries can serve with sustainable products to their users.

Trade Analysis of Foam Cushioning Market: Import & Export Statistics

As per the global import data, the globe has officially imported 13,811 shipments of the Foam Cushions during the period June 2024 to May 2025. Such importers were being supplied by the 1,256 exporters to the 1,699 overall buyers, which has marked a development rate of 24% as compared to the previous twelve months.

  • During this period, in May 2025 alone, the globe imported 1,918 foam cushion shipments.
  • The globe has imported many of the Foam Cushions from China, Vietnam, and India.
  • Worldwide, the leading three importers of the Foam cushions are Vietnam, Japan, and the United States. The United States has topped the globe in Foam cushions as it imports 21,715 shipments, followed by Vietnam, which has 8,591 shipments, and Japan, which takes the third position with 6,671 shipments.

Foam Cushioning Market - Value Chain Analysis

Package Design and Prototyping:

One main factor is to check the sensitivity of the case ingredients. This can be defined with respect to an object of measurement of the growth because of gravity, and it shows the point at which damage can occur. Stronger products can survive at higher g levels before they are damaged, as more sensitive items can be damaged at lower levels.

  • Key Players: Sealed Air, Armacell International S.A., and Sheela Foam Ltd.

Recycling and Waste Management:

Reusing flawed or unneeded foam products is another convenient and green path to disposing of any waste foam in business items. Also, donating the old mattresses to charity is one way to solve this issue without disturbing the environment.

  • Key Players: FXI, Carpenter Co., and Zotefarms plc.

Logistics and Distribution: The logistics of the foam cushioning sector concentrates on smooth manufacturing, delivery, and storage that develops from foam’s main properties like light weight, shock absorption, and customization in order to reduce damage and lower shipping costs to develop sustainability through reusability and correct-sizing too.

  • Key Players: BASF SE, Covestro AG, and Dow Inc.

Segmental Insights

Foam Material Insights

Why Polyethylene (PE) Foam Segment Dominated the Foam Cushioning Market in 2025?

The polyethylene foam segment dominated the market in 2025 as they are closed-cell foam, which means its design is created of millions of small bubbles, packed closely together. This serves as an opposition to water, furthermore, to a powerful and strong nature that does not display open-cell foams. It is accessible to petroleum items, solvents, and is antimicrobial as well, which includes the development of mildew, mold, and bacteria.

The EPP (Expandable Polypropylene) foam segment is expected to experience the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. It is highly reliable, closed-cell bead foam, which is known for its exceptional energy absorption, great power-to-weight ratio, and resistance to. These are crafted material that fills the gap between strong plastics and flexible foams, serving a different integration of characteristics, which makes it perfect for a huge series of challenging uses.

Product Type Insights

Why Foam Sheets & Rolls Segment Dominated the Foam Cushioning Market in 2025?

The foam sheets and rolls segment has dominated the foam cushioning market in 2025 as closed-cell foam, serving perfect shock absorption, water-resistant, which is reliable, and lightweight, making it perfect for packaging of the sensitive products, insulation, and floor mats too. Polyurethane foam is also an open-cell foam which is generally utilised for cushioning and convenient uses, such as mattresses, upholstery, and DIY projects.

The foam wraps segment is expected to experience the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Foam wraps that come from polyethylene are a softer material for the cushioned foam as compared to the bubble wrap. It serves soft protection, which makes it the perfect candidate for the scratch-fragile layers, such as polished screens, metals, and some electronics. In contrast to the bubble wrap, foam wrap creates an even surface of protection, and hence, air pockets are not created. The advantage of foam wrapping material is the non-abrasive padding that protects the layer from scratches on sensitive items, which constantly maintains the quality of the product.

Application Insights

Why the Protective Packaging Segment Dominated the Foam Cushioning Market in 2025?

The protective packaging segment dominated the market in 2025 as the packaging behaves as a primary line of barrier against vibrations, effects, dust, moisture, and other elements that can damage the products. A perfectly-crafted protective packaging system that lessens risks, lowers the costs from defective or return items, and also develops the user’s point of view and the professionalism of the brand. Specifically, industries such as the medical industry, electronics, aerospace, among others, need high-level solutions for the sensitive transport, in which even the smallest amount of pollutants can cause significant losses.

The electronics & appliances protection segment is predicted to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Custom foam inserts are well-crafted to fit the dimensions and contours of particular electronic devices, which ensures a snug, secure fit within their packaging. This accuracy fit assists in preventing the machines from vibration, effect, and shipping-like damage, too, which develops the product's longevity during storage and transport. Foams such as polyethylene and polyurethane can be utilised in making multiplayer packaging solutions that provide developed protection for electronics.

End-User Insights

How E-commerce & Retail Packaging Segment Dominated the Foam Cushioning Market in 2025?

The e-commerce and retail packaging segment dominated the market in 2025, as custom foam inserts are accurately cut foam elements that are crafted to hold, cushion, and protect the items during shipping and storage. Alike generic packaging materials like paper fillers or bubble wrap, the foam inserts are personalized to fit the perfect shape and size of every product. They are the leading reasons why e-commerce brands select foam inserts for protection. From the sensitive electronics to luxury cosmetics, custom inserts lower the risk of breakage and scratches that occur during transit.

The industrial & machinery segment is predicted to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. In this sector, shock-absorbing foam completely absorbs vibration and dissipates energy in order to stay stable and cushion equipment. In contrast to regular cushioning materials, it redistributes stress in order to lower damage instead of just softening a hit. Polyurethane foam is applied in the majority of industrial uses because it hits hard and balances between durability and adaptability. Under effect, shock-absorbing polyurethane foam is being crafted in order to shorten and then rebound without indefinitely deforming. This flexibility allows it to perform constantly under repeated stress.

Regional Insights

How Asia Pacific Dominated the Foam Cushioning Market?

Asia Pacific dominated the foam cushioning market in 2025 as the packaging organizations are heavily concentrating on serving personalized cushioning solutions that match the particular needs and demands of the various markets. For instance, in countries such as South Korea and Japan, there is a greater demand for high-level cushioning materials because of the high level of items that are being shipped, such as luxury and electronics goods. On the other hand, countries such as India and China are driving the urge for more smooth cushioning solutions for big-market products, which include food and beverages, clothing, and consumer electronics too.

How is the Foam Cushioning Market Growing in India?

An azodicarbonamide blowing agent is a chemical element that has a higher temperature in order to release gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. Such gases create a cellular design in polymers that results in insulated, lightweight, and cushioned materials. The developing production sector is one of the key factors for the rising demand for azodicarbonamide. The construction industry is quickly accepting foam-based insulation and the panels for the perfect energy smoothness in every commercial and residential building. Furthermore, there are different sectors that are using foaming agents in order to reduce the weight of the products, which develops the complete smoothness and aligns with environmental regulations.

Why is the Foam Cushioning Market Growing Rapidly in North America?

North America expects the fastest growth in the foam cushioning market in 2025, as furniture and bedding are the top uses for cushioning foams, which account for the greatest share, driven by the user choice for high-quality and ergonomic home furnishings and the growth of the housing and hospitality sectors. The demand in online retail has mainly developed the urge for protective cushioning foams like expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyethylene in order to protect goods during transit.

Why is Canada using the Foam Cushioning Market Importantly?

There is a high demand for strong foams and high-performance construction insulation that continues due to Canada’s cold climate and the federal green building initiatives. Also, there is a foam wheelchair cushion industry in healthcare and mobility, which is growing constantly, filled by an aging population and government healthcare initiatives that concentrate on pressure ulcer protection.

The foam cushioning market in the European region is growing as the move towards more energy-efficient and sustainable buildings is updating the European market for foam insulation materials. With green building compulsion under the initiatives such as the EU Green Deal, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), and national climate targets, the urge is growing for high-performance insulation that aligns with both sustainability and thermal performance.

Germany Foam Cushioning Market Trend

As a main overall automotive centre, Germany’s urge is highly encouraged by the transformation to lightweight materials and electric vehicles (EVs). Foam is complicated for the backrests, seat cushions, and noise/vibration reduction. The travelling segment in Germany is valued at approximately USD 800 million in the year 2025. Sustainable materials are a sharp development, and there is growth for bio-based polyols and less-VOC (volatile organic compound ) foams because of strict EU environmental regulations and the German user choice for “green” materials.

The foam cushioning market in the Middle East &Africa (MEA) region is growing quickly as flexible foam is the most dominant material for the sofas and mattresses, the foam was the biggest income-creating segment for the Middle East and Africa industry as the urge is developing for the lightweight foam materials in order to develop the fuel smoothness and the passenger comfort in the headrests, vehicle seating and armrests. There are big projects in Saudi Arabia and the UAE that are meeting the demand for office furniture and residential furniture, which indirectly develops foam cushioning demand.

UAE Foam Cushioning Market Trend

PU Foam machines point to the machine that is used in the production and processing of Polyurethane Foam (PU Foam). It plays an important role in the UAE, particularly in the manufacturing and construction sectors, because of the importance of Polyurethane (PU) foam in different uses. In the UAE’s construction industry, in which temperature regulation is important, PU foam is used for thermal insulation in buildings. PU foam machines invest in the manufacturing of insulation materials that improve energy efficiency and sustainability in construction.

In South America, the foam cushioning market is growing steadily as automotive and transportation are among the fastest-developing uses, driven by the demand for durable and lightweight components for armrests, seating, and headrests, too, to improve fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. There is also a development for e-commerce and packaging, as the growth of e-commerce has developed the demand for lightweight and protective foam cushioning for the sensitive consumer and electronics goods in this region.

Brazil Foam Cushioning Market Trend

The Brazilian industry counts worldwide companies, such as the regional brands and the latest innovators. Several of the main players are developing their product lines and updating their distribution networks in order to reach the users. They fund research, create collaborations, and gain support from other companies to stay proactive. Many of them are also using automation, sustainability practices, and digital tools to align with updated user demands.

Recent Developments

  • In November 2025, FOAMplus 7008-BIO is the latest packaging foam, which comes from Storopack, which has kept sustainability at the center stage. This polyurethane foam develops more than 83% actual bio-based content in the B-component, which means that it is created from renewable sources and has a much lower carbon footprint than similar fossil origin items.
  • In November 2025, PUMA’s most cushioned running shoe, the MagMax NITRO 2, was launched globally on 1 December 2025. The current updation of PUMA’s max cushioned has operated in terms of franchise, which is smoother, lighter, and more responsive than the first step.
  • In March 2025, Muirhead, a top company in high-performance aviation leather, revealed its innovative BioPRO® Foam, which is the globe’s first naturally fire-opposite and protein-based aviation biofoam too.
  • In September 2025, Cirql is a server of sustainable materials for the international footwear sector that has disclosed Cirql rTPU50, the latest addition to its recyclable midsole collection.
  • In September 2025, Mellow Sleep is a brand that concentrates on sleep ergonomics and material science, which is currently revealing the official launch of its latest product, named the Advanced Cooling Ergonomic Pillow for Side Sleepers.

Top Companies in the Foam Cushioning Market

  • BASF SE: It is the globe’s biggest chemical manufacturer and a German multinational company that is headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, which makes plastics, chemicals, agricultural products, and performance items for different sectors, such as construction, automotive, and electronics, that focus on sustainability and invention.
  • Covestro AG: It is a German organization and a worldwide leader in manufacturing high-tech polymer materials, which include polyurethanes and polycarbonates, which are utilized in fields like construction, electronics, other sectors, and automotive too.
  • Dow Inc.: Dow Inc is a main player in the manufacturing of high-performance foams with a concentration on high-level resin chemistries and personalized formulations. Rigid R &D potential enables Dow to solve tailored market needs, particularly in energy-efficient and lightweight uses.
  • Huntsman Corporation: Huntsman Corporation serves high-performance foam items with a sharp concentration on reliability and high-level mechanical uses. It is professional in tailored polyurethane solutions as it serves and solves strict specifications across thermal insulation, aerospace, and cushioning uses, too.
  • Recticel NV/SA: Recticel N.V. is an expert in the manufacturing of strong polyurethane foams personalized for acoustic and insulation comfort. With a rigid invention pipeline and a strong concentration on circular economy solutions, Rectinel has driven market acceptance through sustainable product lifecycle management.
  • Rogers Corporation: It is a tailored inventor that focuses on crafted foam materials which integrate thermal stability with electrical insulation. The organization is highly associated with its high-level silicone and polyurethane foams, which are used in automotive parts, electronics, and protection systems.
  • Armacell International S.A.: Armacell International S.A has developed global leadership in the flexible foam insulation that serves products updated for energy smoothness and acoustic dampening. Its constant importance is on ideal and lightweight performance.
  • Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.: Sekisui Chemical is a plastics producer with a main office in Tokyo and Osaka. The organization owns a plethora of subsidiaries mixed in a variety of businesses.
  • UFP Technologies, Inc.: It is a creator and custom producer of overall solutions for medical devices, surgical robotics, draping systems, sterile packaging, and other custom-crafted items.
  • Sealed Air Corporation: Sealed Air Corporation is an American packaging company that is well known for its Cryovac food packaging and bubble wrap cushioning packaging, which is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States.

Foam Cushioning Market Segments Covered

By Foam Material

  • Polyethylene (PE) Foam
  • Polyurethane (PU) Foam
  • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam
  • Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Foam
  • EPE (Expanded Polyethylene) Foam
  • EPP (Expandable Polypropylene) Foam
  • Bio-based / Sustainable Foams

By Product Type

  • Foam Sheets & Rolls
  • Foam Blocks
  • Foam Inserts & Die-Cut Components
  • Foam Pillows & Pads
  • Foam Wraps
  • Molded Foam Cushions

By Application

  • Protective Packaging
  • Automotive Cushioning & Interior Components
  • Furniture & Bedding Cushioning
  • Sports & Leisure Equipment
  • Electronics & Appliances Protection
  • Medical & Healthcare Cushioning

By End-Use Industry

  • E-commerce & Retail Packaging
  • Automotive
  • Electronics & Consumer Goods
  • Furniture & Home Décor
  • Industrial & Machinery
  • Healthcare & Medical Devices

By Region

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
    • Mexico
    • Rest of North America
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Rest of South America
  • Europe
    • Western Europe
      • Germany
      • Italy
      • France
      • Netherlands
      • Spain
      • Portugal
      • Belgium
      • Ireland
      • UK
      • Iceland
      • Switzerland
      • Poland
      • Rest of Western Europe
    • Eastern Europe
      • Austria
      • Russia & Belarus
      • Türkiye
      • Albania
      • Rest of Eastern Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China 
    • Taiwan
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia and New Zealand
    • ASEAN Countries (Singapore, Malaysia)
    • South Korea
    • Rest of APAC
  • MEA
    • GCC Countries
      • Saudi Arabia
      • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
      • Qatar
      • Kuwait
      • Oman
      • Bahrain
    • South Africa
    • Egypt
    • Rest of MEA

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  • Insight Code: 5937
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Last Updated: 02 January 2026
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021–2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Yogesh Kulkarni is an experienced Research Analyst specializing in the packaging sector, with a strong foundation in statistical analysis and market intelligence. He currently contributes his expertise to Towards Packaging.

Learn more about Yogesh Kulkarni

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

Answer : Growth is driven by rising demand for protective packaging, expansion of e-commerce, increased electronics shipments, and growing adoption of lightweight and shock-absorbing materials across automotive, furniture, and healthcare sectors.

Answer : Polyethylene (PE) foam dominates due to its closed-cell structure, excellent shock absorption, water resistance, chemical stability, and cost-effectiveness for large-scale packaging applications.

Answer : Expandable Polypropylene (EPP) foam is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR because of its superior energy absorption, recyclability, lightweight nature, and increasing use in automotive, electronics, and reusable packaging.

Answer : Protective packaging minimizes product damage during transport, reduces return rates, and is essential for high-value and fragile goods such as electronics, medical devices, and precision equipment.

Answer : Rapid e-commerce growth has increased the need for customized foam inserts and cushioning solutions that ensure product safety during last-mile delivery while enhancing customer experience.

Answer : Asia Pacific leads due to strong manufacturing activity, expanding electronics and consumer goods sectors, high export volumes, and cost-efficient production in countries like China, India, and Vietnam.

Answer : North America’s growth is fueled by demand for premium furniture and bedding, expansion of online retail, strict packaging standards, and increased use of high-performance foams in automotive and healthcare industries.