Categories: Press Releases

Plastic-Free Packaging Market Growth: Size, Trends, and Regional Outlook 2024–2034

The plastic-free packaging market is on a strong growth trajectory, valued at USD 8.59 billion in 2024 and projected to expand to USD 13.22 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 4.4% during 2025–2034. The rising global shift towards sustainability, increasing consumer awareness, and supportive government regulations are the primary forces driving this transformation.

Retailers and manufacturers are actively adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions such as paper, glass, and plant-based materials to reduce plastic dependency and achieve sustainability goals. Initiatives from global giants like Walmart, Amazon, and Target are further accelerating this change.


Key Takeaways

  • Market size in 2025: USD 8.97 billion

  • Market size by 2034: USD 13.22 billion

  • Growth rate: CAGR of 4.4% (2025–2034)

  • Leading region in 2024: Asia Pacific

  • Fastest-growing region: North America

  • Dominant packaging type (2024): Rigid Packaging

  • Fastest-growing packaging type: Flexible Packaging

  • Leading material: Paper

  • Fastest-growing material: Glass

  • Leading end-user: Food & Beverages

  • Fastest-growing end-user: Pharmaceutical Packaging


Market Dynamics

Drivers: Sustainability and Legislation

Global awareness of plastic pollution and government regulations such as the “Break Free From Plastic Pollution” bill are pushing industries towards sustainable packaging alternatives.

Restraints: High Production Costs

Plastic-free packaging costs 20–30% higher than traditional plastic packaging due to reliance on natural raw materials and complex manufacturing processes.

Opportunities: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Digital engagement, recycling innovations, and partnerships among governments, businesses, and NGOs are paving the way for a sustainable, circular packaging economy.

Download a Sample of Our Market Intelligence: https://www.towardspackaging.com/download-sample/5563


Regional Insights

Asia Pacific – Market Leader

With growing urbanization and stricter regulations on plastics, countries like India and China are witnessing rapid adoption of paper-based and compostable packaging.

North America – Fastest Growth

U.S. consumers are prioritizing compostable and eco-friendly packaging. Companies like Amazon are shifting from plastic fillers to paper alternatives.

Latin America

Nations including Chile, Mexico, and Colombia are implementing bans on single-use plastics, boosting demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

Middle East & Africa

Countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are enforcing restrictions on single-use plastics, leading to growth in biodegradable packaging solutions.


Market Segmentation

By Packaging Type

  • Rigid Packaging (2024 leader)

  • Flexible Packaging (fastest-growing)

By Material

  • Paper Packaging (2024 leader)

  • Glass Packaging (fastest-growing)

By End-User Industry

  • Food & Beverages (2024 leader)

  • Pharmaceutical Packaging (fastest-growing)


Top Companies in the Plastic-Free Packaging Market

1. Mondi Group

About: Mondi is a global leader in packaging and paper solutions with a strong sustainability focus.
Products: Paper-based flexible packaging, corrugated solutions, and industrial bags.
Market Cap: Approximately USD 9.8 billion (2025).

2. Amcor PLC

About: Amcor specializes in developing responsible packaging for food, beverage, and healthcare industries.
Products: Rigid and flexible packaging, recyclable and compostable solutions.
Market Cap: Around USD 16.5 billion (2025).

3. WestRock Company

About: A key American packaging company providing paper and packaging solutions globally.
Products: Paperboard, folding cartons, corrugated containers.
Market Cap: Approximately USD 10.4 billion (2025).

4. Sealed Air Corporation

About: Known for its protective and food packaging innovations.
Products: Sustainable packaging materials, food safety packaging, paper-based wraps.
Market Cap: Around USD 7.2 billion (2025).

5. Smurfit Kappa Group

About: A leading European paper-based packaging provider with operations worldwide.
Products: Corrugated packaging, bag-in-box solutions, sustainable paper-based innovations.
Market Cap: Approximately USD 12.3 billion (2025).

6. Huhtamaki Oyj

About: Finland-based global food packaging specialist.
Products: Fiber-based packaging, paper cups, food containers.
Market Cap: Around USD 4.5 billion (2025).

7. Tetra Pak International S.A.

About: A Swedish multinational known for sustainable food processing and packaging solutions.
Products: Beverage cartons, plant-based packaging, and paperboard containers.
Market Cap: Privately held company, estimated revenue exceeds USD 12 billion annually.

Invest in Our Premium Strategic Solution: https://www.towardspackaging.com/price/5563


Recent Developments

  • Feb 2025: Rottneros Packaging launched its NATURE series of pulp-based food packaging trays.

  • Jul 2025: Terrasafe acquired Dissolves, a dissolvable film packaging startup.

  • May 2025: Starbucks introduced mineral-coated paperboard cups in European markets.

  • Jan 2025: Energizer launched 100% recyclable packaging for its batteries.

  • Aug 2024: Google achieved its 2025 goal of plastic-free consumer electronics packaging.


FAQs

Q1. What is the current size of the plastic-free packaging market?
The market is valued at USD 8.97 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 13.22 billion by 2034.

Q2. Which region leads the plastic-free packaging market?
The Asia Pacific region dominated the market in 2024, while North America is projected to grow the fastest.

Q3. Which material segment is expected to grow the most?
Glass packaging is projected to grow at the fastest pace due to its eco-friendly and health-conscious appeal.

Q4. Which industry uses plastic-free packaging the most?
The food and beverage sector is the largest end-user, driven by demand for sustainable delivery and takeaway solutions.

Q5. Who are the leading companies in the plastic-free packaging market?
Key players include Mondi, Amcor, WestRock, Sealed Air, Smurfit Kappa, Huhtamaki, and Tetra Pak.

Source : https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/plastic-free-packaging-market-sizing

Access our exclusive, data-rich dashboard dedicated to the respective market built specifically for decision-makers, strategists, and industry leaders. The dashboard features comprehensive statistical data, segment-wise market breakdowns, regional performance shares, detailed company profiles, annual updates, and much more. From market sizing to competitive intelligence, this powerful tool is one-stop solution to your gateway.

Access Now: https://www.towardspackaging.com/contact-us

Become a Valued Research Partner with Us – Schedule a meeting: https://www.towardspackaging.com/schedule-meeting

Request a Custom Case Study Built Around Your Goals: sales@towardspackaging.com

About Us

Towards Packaging is a global consulting and market intelligence firm specializing in strategic research across key packaging segments including sustainable, flexible, smart, biodegradable, and recycled packaging. We empower businesses with actionable insights, trend analysis, and data-driven strategies. Our experienced consultants use advanced research methodologies to help companies of all sizes navigate market shifts, identify growth opportunities, and stay competitive in the global packaging industry.

Stay Connected with Towards Packaging

For exclusive insights and industry updates information, statistics, in-depth reports inquiries:
Towards Packaging – Market Insights & Research
Website: https://www.towardspackaging.com/
Newsletter: Towards Sustainable Packaging

Follow Us for Updates
LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Medium | Tumblr | Hashnode | Bloglovin

Contact

  • APAC: +91 9356 9282 04
  • Europe: +44 778 256 0738
  • North America: +1 8044 4193 44
Elodie Blanc

Meet Elodie Blanc, an esteemed authority in the packaging industry with over a decade of experience spanning various sectors. With a background in Industrial Design, she blends creativity with technical prowess to drive innovation. Elodie's expertise encompasses sustainability, digital integration, and emerging trends like smart packaging. She's renowned for spearheading eco-friendly initiatives, advocating for recyclable and biodegradable materials. Beyond her hands-on work, Élodie contributes to Packaging Web Wire, a premier online platform under Towards Packaging - Business Consulting Service. Her insightful articles and speeches at industry events solidify her status as a thought leader. Recognized for her contributions, Elodie continues to shape the future of packaging, prioritizing functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. With her leadership, the industry evolves towards a more responsible and innovative future.

Recent Posts

Commercial Printing Market Companies 2025 Growth Driven by Digital Transformation and Packaging Demand

The global commercial printing market is projected to reach USD 842.39 billion by 2034, expanding…

1 minute ago

Germany Flexible Packaging Market 2025 Companies Growth and Key Innovations

The Germany flexible packaging market is set for strong expansion, projected to grow from USD…

3 minutes ago

Traditional Packaging Materials Market Companies 2025 Growth Outlook and Competitive Insights

The global traditional packaging materials market is on a strong growth trajectory, with revenues projected…

6 minutes ago

Europe Packaging Market 2025 Companies Growth Outlook and Competitive Strategies

The Europe packaging market is entering a transformative decade, projected to grow significantly from 2025…

9 minutes ago

Pharmaceutical Sterile Sample Bags Market 2025 Growth Outlook, Leading Players, and Competitive Strategies

The pharmaceutical sterile sample bags market is undergoing steady expansion, projected to rise from USD…

12 minutes ago

Barrier Packaging Coatings Market Size, Growth Outlook, and Emerging Trends (2024 – 2034)

The Barrier Packaging Coatings Market is set for robust growth, projected to expand from USD…

4 hours ago