The recycled packaging for apparel market is witnessing remarkable growth, fueled by rising environmental concerns, demand for sustainable solutions, and initiatives to minimize textile waste. This transformation aligns with the global shift toward a circular economy. The market is projected to surge into the hundreds of millions between 2025 and 2034, with a notable CAGR during the forecast period.
Market Overview
The push for eco-friendly packaging has revolutionized the apparel industry. Recycled paper, cardboard, and plastics such as rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) dominate the material choices. Packaging types like boxes (folding cartons) hold the largest market share, while mailers show strong potential for future growth.
Regional Insights
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Europe led the market in 2025 with the largest revenue share.
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Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth between 2025 and 2034, driven by increasing adoption of sustainable practices in emerging economies.
Segment Highlights
Material Type
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Recycled Paper & Cardboard: Largest share (45% in 2025).
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Recycled Plastic (rPET): Rapid growth expected with a notable CAGR through 2034.
Packaging Type
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Boxes (Folding Cartons): Dominated 2025 with a 35% share.
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Mailers (Recycled Plastic Mailers): Set for significant expansion as e-commerce thrives.
Apparel Segment
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Fast Fashion Brands: Key adopters due to higher volumes and sustainability commitments.
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Online Retail Packaging: Poised for exponential growth.
Printing Technology
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Flexographic Printing: Led the market in 2025.
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Digital Printing: Expected to grow rapidly during the forecast period.
Top Companies in the Recycled Packaging for Apparel Market
1. Smurfit Kappa Group
About: A global leader in sustainable paper-based packaging solutions headquartered in Ireland.
Products: Corrugated boxes, folding cartons, and recycled paper packaging.
Market Cap: ~$12 billion.
2. Mondi Group
About: UK-based packaging and paper company known for its circular economy initiatives.
Products: Recyclable paper mailers, flexible packaging, and industrial bags.
Market Cap: ~$8 billion.
3. DS Smith Plc
About: British multinational specializing in corrugated packaging made from recycled materials.
Products: Corrugated cardboard packaging, display units, and recycling services.
Market Cap: ~$6 billion.
4. International Paper Company
About: A US-based global leader in renewable fiber-based packaging.
Products: Corrugated containers, folding cartons, and pulp.
Market Cap: ~$13 billion.
5. WestRock Company
About: US-based provider of fiber-based packaging solutions.
Products: Recycled paperboard, folding cartons, and mailers.
Market Cap: ~$10 billion.
6. Stora Enso
About: Finnish-Swedish company focusing on renewable packaging materials.
Products: Recycled paper packaging, cartons, and bioplastics.
Market Cap: ~$9 billion.
7. Amcor Plc
About: Switzerland-based global leader in developing and producing sustainable packaging solutions.
Products: Flexible packaging, rigid containers, specialty cartons.
Market Cap: ~$15 billion.
8. Tetra Pak
About: Swedish company best known for sustainable food and beverage packaging innovations.
Products: Recycled cartons, renewable packaging materials.
Market Cap: Private (part of Tetra Laval Group).
9. Seaman Paper
About: US-based manufacturer of recycled tissue and paper packaging.
Products: Eco-friendly tissue paper, retail bags, and apparel packaging.
Market Cap: Private.
10. Ecolife Recycling
About: Specialist in recycling and creating sustainable packaging solutions.
Products: Recycled plastics for apparel mailers and shipping materials.
Market Cap: Private.
11. Packhelp
About: Poland-based packaging platform offering customizable eco-friendly packaging.
Products: Recycled boxes, mailers, and labels for fashion brands.
Market Cap: Private.
12. Noissue
About: Provider of sustainable packaging solutions tailored for small-to-medium businesses.
Products: Compostable mailers, recycled tissue, and stickers.
Market Cap: Private.
13. EcoEnclose
About: US-based company pioneering sustainable e-commerce packaging.
Products: Recycled poly mailers, boxes, and tapes.
Market Cap: Private.
14. BioPak
About: Australia-based company focused on compostable and recyclable packaging.
Products: Apparel mailers, paper bags, and cartons.
Market Cap: Private.
15. Shillington Box Company
About: US-based packaging manufacturer with strong emphasis on recycled materials.
Products: Recycled folding cartons and corrugated packaging.
Market Cap: Private.
Future Outlook: 2025–2034
The recycled packaging for apparel market is set for transformative growth, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions, regulatory pressures, and innovations in material science. Companies that prioritize circular economy principles are expected to dominate this space.
Source : https://www.towardspackaging.com/insights/recycled-packaging-for-apparel-market-sizing
