Europe Flexible Packaging Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Size

• The Europe Flexible Packaging Market size was valued at USD 36.41 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 54.80 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period
• Growing demand from the food & beverage sector is a major factor driving demand across the region
• Advancements in smart and active packaging enhancing product shelf life and consumer experience is further strengthening market reach

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Analysis

• Flexible packaging is packaging made from pliable materials such as films, foils, or paper that can easily change shape to protect, store, and transport products.
• The Europe Flexible Packaging Market is primarily driven by the rising demand for convenience, lightweight design, extended shelf life, e-commerce growth, sustainability trends, cost-effectiveness, and technological innovations in materials and printing
• Rising demand for sustainable and recyclable flexible packaging presents a significant growth opportunity, as consumers and regulators increasingly favor eco-friendly solutions across food, and beverage sector.
• Europe dominates the Europe Flexible Packaging Market, supported by rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in countries like Germany, France, the U.K., the Netherlands, and Italy, which collectively drive strong demand for premium packaged goods..
• In 2025, the pouches segment is expected to dominate the market with 37.89% market share due to its lightweight, resealable design, superior barrier properties, versatility across liquid and solid foods, extended shelf life, portability, and convenience for storage, transportation, and retail display. Their ability to maintain product freshness and consumer-friendly usability makes them the most preferred choice across Europe food and beverage packaging applications.
• The Germany Europe Flexible Packaging Market is poised to grow at the fastest CAGR of approximately 6.2% from 2025 to 2032, driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for packaged and processed foods. Growth is also supported by expanding e-commerce and retail channels, adoption of lightweight, convenient, and sustainable flexible packaging formats, and investments by regional manufacturers in innovative printing and barrier technologies to meet consumer and regulatory requirements.

Report Scope and Europe Flexible Packaging Market Segmentation

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Trends

“Sustainable & Recyclable Flexible Packaging”

• In the food & beverage sector, there’s a strong shift toward flexible packaging solutions that emphasise sustainability, recyclability and circular‑economy thinking.
• Brands are increasingly using mono‑material films (single polymer rather than multi‑layer laminates) to simplify recycling and reduce complexity.
• There is rising adoption of bio‑based, compostable or paper‑based flexible packaging especially for dry foods and snacks, to reduce reliance on fossil‑based plastics.
• Marketing and regulatory pressure: Governments are setting targets (e.g., single‑use packaging must be recyclable/compostable) and consumers expect eco‑friendly credentials.
• Lightweight flexible packaging reduces material use, shipping weight/volume and carbon footprint compared to rigid alternatives an advantage in food & drink logistics. inside-packaging.
• Flexible packaging formats (like stand‑up pouches, spouted pouches) dominate for convenience and adaptability, making the sustainable versions particularly impactful. Feeding Trends
• Barrier performance improvements (for moisture, oxygen, light) are being matched with sustainable choices, meaning brands don’t have to sacrifice shelf‑life or product integrity when going greener.

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Demand from The Food & Beverage Sector

• The food and beverage sector continues to drive substantial demand for flexible packaging due to its excellent barrier properties, extended shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. The increasing consumption of ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and on-the-go foods, especially in emerging economies such as India, China, and Brazil, is contributing to market growth. Flexible packaging formats like pouches, wraps, and sachets are favored for their convenience, lightweight design, and reduced material usage compared to rigid alternatives. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce grocery deliveries and adoption of sustainable packaging practices by food brands are accelerating the shift toward recyclable and bio-based flexible materials. This growing reliance on flexible packaging is expected to continue fueling Europe market expansion in the coming years.
• For instance, as highlighted by the Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI) in June 2025, 68% of beverage companies anticipate moderate to significant increases in packaging machinery investments, with nearly 90% planning purchases. This investment drive is spurred by rising consumer demand for on-the-go drinks and increased use of flexible packaging formats.
• In May 2025 the Indian firm Jindal Poly Films Limited announced an investment of USD 84.34 million to expand its BOPP, PET and CPP film capacity at its Nashik facility, specifically to support growth in key sectors including food and beverage flexible packaging.
• The escalating demand from the food and beverage sector is a key driver for the flexible food packaging market. Rising consumer preference for convenience, on-the-go consumption, and product freshness is compelling manufacturers to adopt innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. As a result, F&B demand not only fuels market growth but also accelerates the development of flexible formats tailored to diverse product types and regulatory standards.

Restraint/Challenge

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices

• Fluctuating raw material prices remain a critical challenge for the Europe Flexible Packaging Market. Variations in the cost of polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PET can significantly influence production expenses, profit margins, and pricing strategies. These fluctuations are often driven by Europe supply-demand imbalances, energy price volatility, and geopolitical factors, compelling manufacturers to adopt strategic sourcing, alternative materials, and cost-management measures. As a result, raw material price instability continues to shape operational decisions and competitiveness within the industry.
• For instance, In August 2025, Castrol India experienced a 5.1% increase in second-quarter profit, reaching USD 29,400, driven by consistent demand for its automobile and industrial lubricants. Revenue from operations rose by 7.1% to 14.97 billion, supported by a near 5% increase in India's retail vehicle sales during the quarter. However, total expenses grew by 6.6%, largely due to a 3.2% rise in raw material costs, highlighting the impact of fluctuating raw material prices on production costs and profit margins.
• Fluctuating raw material prices continue to pose a significant challenge for the flexible packaging industry, directly affecting production costs, profit margins, and pricing strategies. Variability in the costs of polymers, paper, and other essential inputs forces manufacturers to implement strategic sourcing, adopt alternative materials, and optimize supply chains. These fluctuations not only influence short-term profitability but also shape long-term operational and investment decisions, emphasizing the need for resilience and proactive cost management in a dynamic Europe market

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of product, material, end use industry, and technology.

By product

On the basis of product, the market is segmented into pouches, bags and sacks, tubes, liners, sachets and stick packs, labels, tapes, films, and wraps. In 2025, pouches dominate the Europe Flexible Packaging Market with a market share of 37.89% due to its lightweight, resealable design, superior barrier properties, versatility across liquid and solid foods, extended shelf life, portability, and convenience for storage, transportation, and retail display. Their ability to maintain product freshness and consumer-friendly usability makes them the most preferred choice across Europe food and beverage packaging applications.

Moreover, this segment is further projected to register the highest CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2032, owing to the increasing demand for single-serve, ready-to-eat meals, and on-the-go snacks, rising urbanization, convenience-focused lifestyles, e-commerce packaging needs, innovative pouch designs, and adoption by emerging food brands for cost-effective, sustainable, and visually appealing packaging solutions.

By material

On the basis of material, the market is segmented into plastic, paper, metal, inorganic oxides, adhesives and coatings, and others. In 2025, plastic dominates the Europe market with a market share of 66.07%owing to its durability, flexibility, lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, superior moisture and oxygen barrier properties, compatibility with various printing and laminating technologies, and ability to preserve product quality, shelf life, and appearance across different food and beverage applications worldwide.

Moreover, the paper segment is further projected to register the highest CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2032. The high growth is mainly due to rising sustainability trends, consumer preference for recyclable or biodegradable materials, government regulations on single-use plastics, increasing adoption of paper-based pouches and wraps, and growing eco-conscious packaging initiatives by Europe food and beverage brands.

By End Use

On the basis of end use, the market is segmented into food and beverage. In 2025, food dominates the market with a market share of 81.80% due to high Europe consumption of packaged foods, rising demand for convenience and ready-to-eat products, urban lifestyles, longer shelf-life requirements, increasing retail distribution, and preference for safe, hygienic, and visually appealing packaging formats.

Furthermore, this segment is expected to witness the fastest growth of 5.5% during the forecast period, due to expanding processed and packaged food markets, rising disposable incomes, adoption of single-serve and snack formats, rising e-commerce food sales, increasing awareness about food preservation, and the need for sustainable, convenient, and portable packaging solutions.

By Technology

On the basis of technology, the market is segmented into flexography, rotogravure, digital, and others. In 2025, flexography dominates Europe Flexible Packaging Market with a market share of 42.52%as it offers high-speed, cost-efficient printing on various substrates, consistent color quality, adaptability for flexible films, scalability for large production runs, superior ink adhesion, minimal setup time, and capability to deliver vibrant, high-resolution designs for branding and product appeal.

Furthermore, this segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth of 5.6% during the forecast period. The growth of this segment is mainly due to the advancements in automation, improved plate-making technologies, digital hybrid integration, demand for high-quality, short-run prints, sustainability-driven ink innovations, ability to customize packaging quickly, and increased adoption by brands seeking visually attractive, efficient, and cost-effective printing solutions.

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Regional Analysis

• Germany dominated the Europe Flexible Packaging Market with the large revenue share of 20.25%, driven by rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in countries like China and India are increasing demand for packaged food and beverages, boosting the Europe Flexible Packaging Market.
• Expansion of e-commerce and modern retail channels in the Asia-Pacific region is driving the adoption of convenient, lightweight, and durable flexible packaging solutions.
• Growing awareness of food safety, longer shelf-life requirements, and increasing use of ready-to-eat and processed food products are further fueling market growth, contributing to the region’s large revenue share.

Europe Flexible Packaging Market Insight

The Europe Flexible Packaging Market is expected to grow steadily over the forecast period, driven by increasing consumer awareness of sustainability, government regulations on single-use plastics, and rising demand for recyclable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Growth is further supported by the expansion of packaged food and beverage sectors, technological advancements in printing and barrier films, and increasing adoption of convenient flexible formats such as pouches, sachets, and wraps.

U.K. Europe Flexible Packaging Market Insight

The U.K. Europe Flexible Packaging Market is expected to register steady growth over the forecast period, supported by rising demand for convenient and lightweight packaging solutions in food, beverages, and personal care sectors. Consumer preference for sustainable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials, along with growing e-commerce and retail packaging requirements, is driving adoption. Technological innovations in flexible films, barriers, and printing solutions further enhance product differentiation and market competitiveness.

Germany Europe Flexible Packaging Market Insight

Germany Europe Flexible Packaging Market is anticipated to expand at a notable CAGR during the forecast period, supported by increasing consumer preference for sustainable and recyclable packaging formats. Growth is driven by a strong food and beverage sector, regulatory support for eco-friendly packaging, and rising adoption of advanced flexible films with enhanced barrier and printing properties. Manufacturers are investing in innovation and automation to meet demand for convenience and high-quality packaging solutions.

The Major Market Leaders Operating in the Market Are:

• PROAMPAC (U.S.)
• AMCOR PLC (Switzerland)
• GOGLIO SPA (Italy)
• GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY (U.S.)
• CONSTANTIA FLEXIBLES (Austria)
• ALTANA (Germany)
• SONOCO PRODUCTS COMPANY (U.S.)
• FLAIR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING CORPORATION (U.S.)
• MONDI (U.K.)
• WESTROCK COMPANY (U.S.)
• TRANSCONTINENTAL INC. (Canada)
• WIPAK GROUP (Finland)
• SEALED AIR (U.S.)
• BBC CELLPACK PACKAGING (Switzerland)
• SCHUR FLEXIBLES (Austria)
• COVERIS (Austria)
• HUHTAMÄKI (Finland)
• BISCHOF + KLEIN SE & CO. KG (Germany)
• SÜDPAC (Germany)

Latest Developments in Europe Flexible Packaging Market

• In September, Sealed Air introduced the AUTOBAG 850HB Hybrid Bagging Machine, designed for fulfillment operations that use either paper or poly mailers. The machine provides flexibility to run both substrate types, helping customers streamline equipment needs and support curb-side recyclable formats.
• In September 2025, Graphic Packaging, along with Henkel Adhesive Technologies and Kraton Corporation, formed a strategic partnership to develop next-generation sustainable packaging solutions. This collaboration focuses on aligning innovation with circular economy principles, accelerating the shift to more sustainable, high-performing materials. The partnership aims to drive sustainable progress in the packaging industry through combined expertise and resources.
• In July, BBC Cellpack Packaging enhanced its production capabilities at its Lauterecken (Germany) site with the installation of a BOBST EXPERT CI flexo press featuring eleven printing units. The investment enables faster job changeovers, reduced waste, and greater versatility across recyclable and sustainable flexible packaging, strengthening the company’s presence in confectionery, dry foods, and personal care segments.
• In August 2024, ACTEGA introduced the YUNICO technology platform, a water-based coating solution designed to enhance the sustainability of food packaging. This platform enables the dispersion of highly customizable compounds, providing barrier properties, recyclability, and adhesion in packaging materials. YUNICO aligns with ALTANA's commitment to sustainable packaging solution.
• In August 2023, Amcor acquired Phoenix Flexibles, a Gujarat-based company generating approximately USD 20 million in annual revenue from flexible packaging solutions for food, home care, and personal care sectors. This acquisition enhances Amcor's capacity in the high-growth Indian market and introduces advanced film technologies, enabling local production of sustainable packaging solutions.
• In April, Huhtamaki expanded its flexible packaging portfolio with the launch of its next-generation mono-material films under the blueloop platform. The new range, made from PE and PP, delivers full recyclability and high product protection, addressing the demand for sustainable flexible solutions across food and personal care markets. This innovation reflects Huhtamaki’s focus on circular packaging solutions and its long-term commitment to reducing plastic waste through material innovation.

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