The Future of Rigid Plastic Packaging to 2028

Despite the challenges facing the rigid plastic packaging market, there are opportunities for growth in emerging technologies and sustainable packaging development. This report analyses the key market and regulatory trends with implications for rigid plastic packaging globally.

Table of Contents Key Facts and Figures
  • Global rigid plastic packaging consumption grew during 2018–2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% to 64.8 million tonnes
  • In 2023, global rigid plastic packaging consumption is projected to grow 3.0% to 66.8 million tonnes
  • Global rigid plastic packaging consumption is forecast to grow during 2023–2028 at an annual rate of 3.4% to 78.8 million tonnes. 
Despite the challenges facing the rigid plastic packaging market, there are opportunities for growth in emerging technologies and sustainable packaging development. This report analyses the key market and regulatory trends with implications for rigid plastic packaging globally. These include the key rigid plastic packaging applications that are most vulnerable to replacement by fibre-based packaging; and how product and technology developments, such as barrier solutions, can add value and open up new applications for rigid plastic packaging.  

Our exclusive content
  • Food is the largest end-use market for rigid plastic packaging, accounting for a projected 40.4% share of global consumption in 2023
  • Within the food category, dairy products are the largest sector, followed by other (human) foods
  • Non-food is the second largest sector, representing 31.6% of consumption, followed by drinks with a 28.0% consumption share
  • Hot beverages, particularly coffee capsules, are forecast to grow at the highest rate, followed by healthcare and other (human) foods.  
What will you discover?
  • Examples of how brand owners and plastic converters are making rigid plastic packaging more recyclable and sustainable
  • The market potential for new and developing technologies, such as chemical recycling and bioplastics; including 100% bio-PET, bio-PE and bio-PP
  • Rigid plastic packaging continues to benefit from its ability to replace traditional packaging formats, such as glass bottles and metal cans, due to lower cost, lighter weight, and improved durability.    
The Smithers methodology
This report is based on extensive primary and secondary research. Primary research consisted of targeted interviews with material suppliers, converters and experts drawn from key markets. This was supported by secondary research in the form of extensive literature analysis of published data, official government statistics, domestic and international trade organisation data, company websites, industry reports, trade press articles, presentations, and attendance at trade events. 

Who should buy this report?
  • Materials suppliers
  • Packaging converters
  • Packaging and filling machinery manufacturers
  • Brand owners and packaging buyers
  • Industry consultants, investors and analysts  
About the author
David Platt is a freelance business researcher and writer with a broad range of experience in the plastics and packaging industry. He has authored over 50 market reports for Smithers on subjects including global packaging, rigid plastic packaging, PET packaging, flexible packaging, bioplastics, specialty plastics, high-performance packaging films, and pouches, caps & closures. He has participated in consultancy projects and has authored two books for Smithers, and writes for Sustainable Plastics magazine.
The Future of Rigid Plastic Packaging to 2028

Name The Future of Rigid Plastic Packaging to 2028

Date 02/06/2023

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