Consumer-Centric Trends in United Kingdom Packaging Market Industry

Key Insights

The United Kingdom packaging market, valued at approximately £25 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning e-commerce sector and increasing consumer demand for convenient and sustainable packaging solutions. The 2.27% CAGR indicates a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). Significant growth drivers include the rising popularity of online grocery shopping and the associated need for robust and protective packaging. Furthermore, the increasing focus on brand differentiation and the adoption of innovative packaging designs, such as sustainable and recyclable options, are contributing to market growth. However, fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly for plastics and paper, and evolving environmental regulations represent key restraints. The market is segmented across various materials (plastic, paper, glass, metal), end-use verticals (food & beverage, healthcare, cosmetics, industrial), and packaging types (rigid, flexible). The dominance of plastic packaging is expected to continue, though sustainable alternatives like biodegradable plastics and paper-based packaging are gaining traction, reflecting increasing consumer and regulatory pressure for environmentally responsible practices. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and smaller specialized packaging companies, each vying for market share through innovation and strategic partnerships.

The UK packaging market's future trajectory hinges on several factors. Government initiatives promoting sustainable packaging and waste reduction will significantly influence market trends. The growing demand for customized packaging solutions tailored to specific product needs and brand identity is creating new opportunities. Meanwhile, technological advancements, such as smart packaging incorporating sensors and traceability features, are expected to transform the industry. The ongoing COVID-19 recovery and subsequent shifts in consumer behavior are likely to further shape the market's dynamic over the coming years. Competition will intensify as companies focus on enhancing their offerings in terms of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and customization, demanding continuous innovation and adaptation within the sector. The projected growth, despite the restraints, presents significant investment opportunities for businesses strategically positioned within this dynamic landscape.

United Kingdom Packaging Market Research Report - Market Size, Growth & Forecast

United Kingdom Packaging Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)

This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the United Kingdom packaging market, encompassing market size, growth trends, key players, and future opportunities. With a focus on key segments like plastic packaging (rigid and flexible), paper packaging, and other materials (glass, metal), this report offers invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study period covers 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year.

United Kingdom Packaging Market Dynamics & Structure

The UK packaging market is characterized by a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few major players holding significant market share. Technological innovation, driven by sustainability concerns and evolving consumer preferences, plays a crucial role. Stringent regulatory frameworks, including the UK Plastics Packaging Tax (PPT), significantly influence market dynamics. Competitive pressures from substitute materials and the rise of eco-friendly alternatives are also key considerations. M&A activity within the sector is moderate, with deals primarily focused on expanding product portfolios and geographic reach. The market is segmented by packaging material type (paper, plastic, metal, glass), end-user vertical (food, beverage, healthcare, industrial, etc.), and packaging type (rigid, flexible).

Market Concentration: xx% held by top 5 players in 2024.
Technological Innovation: Focus on sustainable materials (PCR, bioplastics), automation, and smart packaging.
Regulatory Framework: PPT, waste management regulations, and labeling requirements significantly impact market players.
Competitive Substitutes: Growth of biodegradable and compostable packaging poses a challenge to traditional materials.
M&A Activity: xx major deals recorded between 2019-2024, primarily focused on expansion and diversification.

United Kingdom Packaging Market Growth Trends & Insights

The UK packaging market exhibited a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2024, driven by robust growth across various end-use sectors. The market size is projected to reach xx Million units by 2025 and xx Million units by 2033, indicating continued expansion. Significant growth is observed in the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions in response to increasing environmental concerns and government regulations. Consumer behavior shifts towards convenience and e-commerce further fuel demand for specific packaging types. Technological disruptions, such as advancements in automation and smart packaging technologies, are reshaping the industry landscape.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in United Kingdom Packaging Market

The South East of England is currently the dominant region for the UK packaging market, benefiting from high population density and a strong manufacturing base. Within packaging types, flexible plastic packaging (pouches & bags, films & wraps) holds the largest market share due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness, followed by rigid plastic packaging and paper-based packaging. The food and beverage sector is the leading end-user vertical, driving significant demand for various packaging solutions.

Key Drivers in South East England: High consumer spending, established industrial infrastructure, proximity to major ports.
Flexible Plastic Packaging Dominance: Driven by cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and suitability for diverse applications.
Food & Beverage Sector Leadership: High demand for packaging across various product categories (e.g., processed foods, beverages).

United Kingdom Packaging Market Product Landscape

The UK packaging market showcases continuous product innovation, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and functional packaging solutions. Advancements in materials science have resulted in the development of lightweight, recyclable, and barrier-enhanced packaging options. Products are increasingly designed with enhanced convenience features, tamper evidence, and sophisticated labeling technologies. The focus on circular economy principles is driving the adoption of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in packaging materials and innovative designs.

Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in United Kingdom Packaging Market

Key Drivers: Rising consumer spending, growth of e-commerce, increasing demand for convenience, stringent regulations promoting sustainable packaging, and government initiatives supporting the circular economy.

Challenges: Fluctuating raw material prices, increasing energy costs, supply chain disruptions, competition from foreign manufacturers, and the ongoing need to meet evolving sustainability standards. The PPT has added pressure on businesses to increase the recycled content of their packaging. The estimated impact of the PPT on packaging costs is xx Million units annually.

Emerging Opportunities in United Kingdom Packaging Market

Opportunities exist in the development of innovative, eco-friendly packaging materials, such as bioplastics and compostable alternatives. The growth of the online grocery sector and the demand for sustainable packaging solutions in e-commerce create new market possibilities. Furthermore, the increasing demand for personalized and customized packaging presents significant opportunities for specialized packaging manufacturers.

Growth Accelerators in the United Kingdom Packaging Market Industry

The UK packaging market’s long-term growth is fueled by technological advancements in materials science and automation. Strategic partnerships between packaging manufacturers and retailers to promote sustainable packaging solutions are also significant growth catalysts. Expansion into niche markets, such as medical packaging and specialized food packaging, represents further opportunities for growth.

Key Players Shaping the United Kingdom Packaging Market Market

*List Not Exhaustive

Notable Milestones in United Kingdom Packaging Market Sector

July 2022: ProAmpac launched ProActivePCR Retort pouches, incorporating 30%+ PCR content and complying with the UK PPT.
May 2022: Interface Polymers Ltd. and Flexipol Ltd. secured funding for a project developing fully recyclable LDPE multi-layer packaging.
February 2022: Coveris and Ineos launched lightweight stretch films with minimum 30% recycled content, meeting PPT requirements.

In-Depth United Kingdom Packaging Market Market Outlook

The UK packaging market is poised for continued growth, driven by sustainability initiatives, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. The focus on circular economy principles, coupled with government regulations, presents significant opportunities for manufacturers offering eco-friendly and recyclable packaging solutions. Strategic partnerships and market expansion into niche sectors will further enhance market potential.

United Kingdom Packaging Market Segmentation

1. End-User Vertical
- 1.1. Food
- 1.2. Beverage
- 1.3. Healthcare
- 1.4. Cosmetics, Personal Care, and Household Care
- 1.5. Industrial
2. Plastic Packaging
- 2.1. Material Type
  - 2.1.1. PE (Polyethylene)
  - 2.1.2. PP (Polypropylene)
  - 2.1.3. PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride)
  - 2.1.4. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
  - 2.1.5. Other Material Types
- 2.2. By Type
  - 2.2.1. Rigid Plastic Packaging
    - 2.2.1.1. Bottles and Jars
    - 2.2.1.2. Trays and Containers
    - 2.2.1.3. Other Product Types
  - 2.2.2. Flexible Plastic Packaging
    - 2.2.2.1. Pouches & Bags
    - 2.2.2.2. Films and Wraps
3. Packaging Material Type
- 3.1. Paper
  - 3.1.1. Carton Board
  - 3.1.2. Containerboard and Linerboard
  - 3.1.3. Other Types
- 3.2. Glass
- 3.3. Metal (C

United Kingdom Packaging Market Segmentation By Geography

1. United Kingdom

United Kingdom Packaging Market Regional Share

United Kingdom Packaging Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS

Aspects	Details
Study Period	2019-2033
Base Year	2024
Estimated Year	2025
Forecast Period	2025-2033
Historical Period	2019-2024
Growth Rate	CAGR of 2.27% from 2019-2033
Segmentation	By End-User Vertical Food Beverage Healthcare Cosmetics, Personal Care, and Household Care Industrial By Plastic Packaging Material Type PE (Polyethylene) PP (Polypropylene) PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Other Material Types By Type Rigid Plastic Packaging Bottles and Jars Trays and Containers Other Product Types Flexible Plastic Packaging Pouches & Bags Films and Wraps By Packaging Material Type Paper Carton Board Containerboard and Linerboard Other Types Glass Metal (C By Geography United Kingdom

1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- - 3.2. Market Drivers
  - - 3.2.1. Rising Demand from the Millennial for Luxury Packaging for Consumer Goods; Demand for E-commerce Packaging is Soaring; Flexible Packaging Continues to Grow Faster
- - 3.3. Market Restrains
  - - 3.3.1. High Cost of Development and the Rising Concept of Recycling; The Rising Environmental Concerns
- - 3.4. Market Trends
  - - 3.4.1. Food Segment is Expected to Drive the Market's Growth
4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
5. United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Vertical
  - 5.1.1. Food
  - 5.1.2. Beverage
  - 5.1.3. Healthcare
  - 5.1.4. Cosmetics, Personal Care, and Household Care
  - 5.1.5. Industrial
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Plastic Packaging
  - 5.2.1. Material Type
    - 5.2.1.1. PE (Polyethylene)
    - 5.2.1.2. PP (Polypropylene)
    - 5.2.1.3. PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride)
    - 5.2.1.4. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
    - 5.2.1.5. Other Material Types
  - 5.2.2. By Type
    - 5.2.2.1. Rigid Plastic Packaging
      - 5.2.2.1.1. Bottles and Jars
      - 5.2.2.1.2. Trays and Containers
      - 5.2.2.1.3. Other Product Types
    - 5.2.2.2. Flexible Plastic Packaging
      - 5.2.2.2.1. Pouches & Bags
      - 5.2.2.2.2. Films and Wraps
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Packaging Material Type
  - 5.3.1. Paper
    - 5.3.1.1. Carton Board
    - 5.3.1.2. Containerboard and Linerboard
    - 5.3.1.3. Other Types
  - 5.3.2. Glass
  - 5.3.3. Metal (C
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
  - 5.4.1. United Kingdom
6. North America United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- - 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
  - - 6.1.1.
7. Europe United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- - 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
  - - 7.1.1.
8. Asia Pacific United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- - 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
  - - 8.1.1.
9. Africa United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- - 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
  - - 9.1.1.
10. Rest of the World United Kingdom Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- - 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
  - - 10.1.1.
11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- - 11.2. Company Profiles
  - - 11.2.1 Sonoco Products Company
      11.2.1.1. Overview
      11.2.1.2. Products
      11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.2 Ball Corporation
      11.2.2.1. Overview
      11.2.2.2. Products
      11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.3 Westrock Company
      11.2.3.1. Overview
      11.2.3.2. Products
      11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.4 Greif Inc
      11.2.4.1. Overview
      11.2.4.2. Products
      11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.5 Crown Holdings Inc
      11.2.5.1. Overview
      11.2.5.2. Products
      11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.6 AptarGroup Inc
      11.2.6.1. Overview
      11.2.6.2. Products
      11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.7 DS Smith PLC
      11.2.7.1. Overview
      11.2.7.2. Products
      11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.8 Mondi Group
      11.2.8.1. Overview
      11.2.8.2. Products
      11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.9 Owens Illinois Inc
      11.2.9.1. Overview
      11.2.9.2. Products
      11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.10 Amcor PLC
      11.2.10.1. Overview
      11.2.10.2. Products
      11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.11 Can-Pack UK Ltd
      11.2.11.1. Overview
      11.2.11.2. Products
      11.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.11.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.12 Graphic Packaging International LLC
      11.2.12.1. Overview
      11.2.12.2. Products
      11.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.12.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.13 Tetra Pak International SA
      11.2.13.1. Overview
      11.2.13.2. Products
      11.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.13.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.14 Berry Global Inc
      11.2.14.1. Overview
      11.2.14.2. Products
      11.2.14.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.14.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.14.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.15 Silgan Holdings Inc
      11.2.15.1. Overview
      11.2.15.2. Products
      11.2.15.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.15.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.15.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.16 Sealed Air Corporation
      11.2.16.1. Overview
      11.2.16.2. Products
      11.2.16.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.16.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.16.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.17 Huhtamaki Oyj
      11.2.17.1. Overview
      11.2.17.2. Products
      11.2.17.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.17.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.17.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 11.2.18 Ardagh Group*List Not Exhaustive
      11.2.18.1. Overview
      11.2.18.2. Products
      11.2.18.3. SWOT Analysis
      11.2.18.4. Recent Developments
      11.2.18.5. Financials (Based on Availability)

List of Figures

Figure 1: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
Figure 2: United Kingdom Packaging Market Share (%) by Company 2024

List of Tables

Table 1: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
Table 2: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Vertical 2019 & 2032
Table 3: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Plastic Packaging 2019 & 2032
Table 4: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Packaging Material Type 2019 & 2032
Table 5: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
Table 6: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Table 7: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Table 8: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Table 9: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Table 10: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Table 11: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Table 12: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Table 13: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Table 14: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Table 15: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Table 16: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Vertical 2019 & 2032
Table 17: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Plastic Packaging 2019 & 2032
Table 18: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Packaging Material Type 2019 & 2032
Table 19: United Kingdom Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the United Kingdom Packaging Market?

The projected CAGR is approximately 2.27%.

2. Which companies are prominent players in the United Kingdom Packaging Market?

Key companies in the market include Sonoco Products Company, Ball Corporation, Westrock Company, Greif Inc, Crown Holdings Inc, AptarGroup Inc, DS Smith PLC, Mondi Group, Owens Illinois Inc, Amcor PLC, Can-Pack UK Ltd, Graphic Packaging International LLC, Tetra Pak International SA, Berry Global Inc, Silgan Holdings Inc, Sealed Air Corporation, Huhtamaki Oyj, Ardagh Group*List Not Exhaustive.

3. What are the main segments of the United Kingdom Packaging Market?

The market segments include End-User Vertical, Plastic Packaging, Packaging Material Type.

4. Can you provide details about the market size?

The market size is estimated to be USD 59.59 Million as of 2022.

5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?

Rising Demand from the Millennial for Luxury Packaging for Consumer Goods; Demand for E-commerce Packaging is Soaring; Flexible Packaging Continues to Grow Faster.

6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?

Food Segment is Expected to Drive the Market's Growth.

7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?

High Cost of Development and the Rising Concept of Recycling; The Rising Environmental Concerns.

8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?

July 2022 - Flexible packaging provider ProAmpac introduced ProActivePCR Retort pouches in response to the rising market need for post-consumer recycled (PCR) packaging solutions. The pouches are intended for packaging pet and human food and are FDA and EU-approved for food contact in retort applications. They offer a 30% percentage or greater PCR content by weight, reducing the use of virgin resins in the packaging. In addition, these innovative pouches comply with the United Kingdom (UK) Plastics Packaging Tax (PPT).

9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?

Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.

10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?

The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.

11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?

Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "United Kingdom Packaging Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.

12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?

The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.

13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the United Kingdom Packaging Market report?

While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.

14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the United Kingdom Packaging Market?

To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the United Kingdom Packaging Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.

Methodology

Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database

Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Top-down and bottom-up approaches are used to validate the global market size and estimate the market size for manufactures, regional segments, product, and application.

Note*: In applicable scenarios

Step 3 - Data Sources

Primary Research

Web Analytics
Survey Reports
Research Institute
Latest Research Reports
Opinion Leaders

Secondary Research

Annual Reports
White Paper
Latest Press Release
Industry Association
Paid Database
Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation

Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study

These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.

Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.

During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence

Additionally, after gathering mixed and scattered data from a wide range of sources, data is triangulated and correlated to come up with estimated figures which are further validated through primary mediums or industry experts, opinion leaders.