Thermoformed Containers Market Outlook from 2025 to 2035

The sales of thermoformed containersare estimated to be worth USD 52,456.0 million in 2025 and anticipated to reach a value of USD 78,397.5 million by 2035. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 4.1% over the forecast period between 2025 and 2035. The revenue generated by thermoformed containersin 2024 was USD 50,731.1 million. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 3.9% in 2025.

Food processing is fueling intense demand for thermoformed packaging containers, which are expected to be worth USD 30,372.0 million in the market by 2025, holding over 55% market share. This is because of increased demand for cost-effective, light-weighted, and environmentally friendly packaging systems for food service, frozen foods, dairy, and bakery.

Clamshells, trays, cups, tubs, and lids are seeing strong demand because of convenience, prolonged shelf life advantage, and suitability with food processing automation. Bakery & confectionery shopkeepers are employing PET and PP-based clamshells and trays in a bigger way to ensure more visibility and freshness.

Dairy and baby foods depend on thermoformed cups and tubs for safe, tamper-proof packaging. Frozen and chilled food chains prefer robust, temperature-tolerant trays and bowls due to their durability. The growth in demand for quick-service restaurants (QSRs) and HORECA is also driving the adoption of microwaveable and single-use containers, hence the prevalence of thermoformed solutions in today's food packaging.

Thermoformed Containers Industry Assessment

Metric Value
Industry Size (2025E) USD 52,456.0 million
Industry Value (2035F) USD 78,397.5 million
CAGR (2025 to 2035) 4.1%

Clamshell containers are expected to achieve a market value of USD 17,153.1 million by 2025 on account of their versatility, toughness, and capacity for product visibility. Their increasing popularity is especially prominent in fresh produce, bakery & confectionery, ready-to-eat meals, and foodservice uses. Fresh fruits and vegetables lead clamshell use because they have a secure closing system, longer shelf life, and tamper-resistant nature.

Bakery items such as cakes, muffins, and pastries are helped by PET and PP-based clamshells that shield fragile textures and provide transparent visibility for retail use. In the ready-to-eat meal market, microwave-compatible PP clamshells are widely sought after for meal-prep and take-out uses. HORECA and QSR chains favor hinged clamshells for easy, leak-free, and stackable packaging solutions.

Also, the growth of environmentally friendly and compostable clamshells produced using bioplastics is gaining momentum with growing sustainability regulations, making them a popular option for food retailers as well as consumers.

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Semi-Annual Market

The below table presents the expected CAGR for the global thermoformed containersmarket over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2025 to 2035. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2024 to 2034, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 3.0%, followed by a highgrowth rate of 5.2% in the second half (H2) of the same decade.

Particular Value CAGR
H1 (2024 to 2034 ) 3.0%
H2 (2024 to 2034 ) 5.2%
H1 (2025 to 2035 ) 3.9%
H2 (2025 to 2035 ) 4.3%

Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2035, the CAGR is projected to increase to 3.9% in the first half and decrease to 4.3% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed an increase of 90 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed a decrease of 90 BPS.

Key Industry Highlights

rPET and PET Clamshells Transforming Fresh Food Packaging with Transparency

rPET and PET clamshells and trays are increasingly being adopted as the preferred choice by food companies and retailers for packaging dairy products, fresh foods, and baked foods due to the demand for high transparency, tamper evidence, and growing shelf life. Transparent thermoforms enable visible product freshness and quality inspection prior to purchase, an important attribute in choosing to purchase.

These are most important for pre-cut fruit, deli meats, gourmet desserts, and specialty bakery items, where visibility and apparent freshness are primary sales motivations. PET packaging is also able to offer excellent oxygen and moisture barrier performance to maintain product integrity for long shelf stability under retail display and refrigerated cold storage conditions.

Use of recycled PET (rPET) is also on the rise with more sustainability efforts, where big-box retailers and food producers are turning to post-consumer recycled material to meet environmentally conscious packaging demands. The combination of durability, visibility, and recyclability of PET and rPET clamshells makes them unavoidable in fresh food packaging.

Microwaveable PP Trays Revolutionizing Convenience and Frozen Food Packaging Trends

Growing demand for meal kit preparation services, frozen food businesses, and ready-to-eat meal kits is driving demand for microwaveable thermoformed trays of PP, which offers heat resistance, impact resistance, and food safety.

The trays are made to withstand high temperatures during cooking in microwaves and conventional cooking, and thus are best suited for single-serve pasta meals, frozen foods, gourmet ready meals, and pre-cooked meat.

Consumers increasingly want easy, heat-and-eat meals with minimal or no cooking, fueling sales of portion-controlled and multi-compartment PP trays that divide various components of the meal. Additionally, restaurants, cloud kitchens, and meal delivery companies are substituting PP-based microwave-safe containers with meals being delivered home to keep the food fresh and convenient to reheat.

In view of the rising concerns about contamination and food safety, PP trays are being increasingly utilized because they are tamper-evident sealing and leak-proof. As such, it is an apt choice for the emerging convenience food and frozen foods market.

Strict Bans on PS and PVC Reshaping Food Packaging with Sustainability

Regulations in the California, Canadian, and EU markets were very strict, banning PS foam and PVC-packaging with extreme severity, causing significant hardship to retail, foodservice, and fast food companies.

Regulations reduced plastic pollution and waste from the environment and forced companies to drop PS-based thermoformed clamshells, trays, and lids that were being used heavily for takeout, delivery, and grocery packaging. Thus, manufacturers, retailers, and quick-service restaurants (QSRs) must switch over to rPET, PP, and bioplastics such as PLA (polylactic acid) and molded fiber packaging.

These are pricier to manufacture and fewer in supply, so they raise costs for makers and foodservice operators. Packages must also be redesigned to recycle and compost at additional expense. Despite the challenges, the movement toward green thermoformed packaging is gathering pace, as companies attempt to balance regulation needs with evolving customer demand for environmentally friendly alternatives.

Industry Adoption: Key Areas of Investment 2025 to 2035

Key Investment Area Why It’s Critical for Future Growth
Recyclable & Mono-Material Packaging Compliance with EPR regulations in the EU & North America; improving recyclability with PP & rPET -based thermoformed containers.
Biodegradable & Compostable Materials Rising demand for PLA, PHA, and molded fiber trays and cups in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) and organic food packaging.
High-Barrier Thermoformed Packaging Increasing need for extended shelf-life solutions in chilled & frozen foods, meat, and dairy packaging without compromising sustainability.
Advanced In-Line Thermoforming Technology Enhancing production speed, precision, and material efficiency, reducing costs while meeting high-volume demand in foodservice and pharmaceutical sectors.
Tamper-Evident and Smart Packaging Growth in anti-counterfeit solutions for pharmaceuticals, dairy, and baby food; integration of QR codes & NFC tags for enhanced traceability.

2020 to 2024 Thermoformed Containers Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2025 to 2035

The global the rmo formed containers industry recorded a CAGR of 3.4% during the historical period between 2020 and 2024. The growth of the thermoformed containers industry was positive as it reached a value of USD 50,731.1 million in 2024 from USD 44,380.5million in 2020.

The thermoformed containers market has evolved steadily with increasing demands from food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care markets. Convenience food, fresh fruit and vegetable packing, and ready-to-eat food have improved mass utilization of clamshells, trays, tubs, and lids. Alongside this is the need for environmentally friendly and recyclable material that has driven companies to rPET, PP, and biodegradable material and hence driving the market growth.

However, regulatory barriers to single-use plastic application and fluctuations in raw material prices have been pitfalls, leading to shifting preference of material and development of lightweight, environmentally friendly thermoformed products.

Market Aspect 2020 to 2024 (Past Trends)
Material Preference High usage of PS, PVC, and PET-based containers; limited adoption of rPET and PP.
Regulatory Impact Stricter single-use plastic bans in EU, Canada, and select USA states; early adoption of recyclability mandates.
Sustainability Trends Growing brand commitments to reduce virgin plastic use; initial investments in rPET and lightweighting.
End-Use Industry Growth High demand from foodservice, dairy, and fresh produce packaging; steady growth in personal care & pharma sectors.
Manufacturing Trends Reliance on third-party contract manufacturers for cost-effective production.
Market Aspect 2025 to 2035 (Future Projections)
Material Preference Shift toward mono-material packaging (PP, rPET ); increased demand for biodegradable options like PLA & molded fiber.
Regulatory Impact Widespread enforcement of EPR policies; increased focus on PCR content and full recyclability compliance.
Sustainability Trends Mass adoption of closed-loop recycling, fully compostable solutions, and greater investments in bio-based thermoforming materials.
End-Use Industry Growth Frozen meals, ready-to-eat, and single-serve packaging driving demand; pharmaceutical and medical packaging innovations accelerating growth.
Manufacturing Trends Shift toward in-house thermoforming by major food brands and retailers for cost control and sustainability compliance.

Consumer Priorities vs. Manufacturer Priorities 2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035

Factor Consumer Priorities (2020 to 2024) & (2025 to 2035)
Sustainability
  • Preference for recyclable packaging, but limited willingness to pay a premium.
  • Demand for 100% recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable solutions, with preference for closed-loop systems.
Convenience & Functionality
  • Demand for resealable, easy-open, and microwaveable packaging, especially in ready meals.
  • Increased need for multi-compartment trays, spill-proof, tamper-evident, and on-the-go designs.
Material Preferences
  • PET and PP preferred for transparency, durability, and food safety.
  • Shift toward rPET, molded fiber, and bioplastics like PLA & PHA.
Health & Safety
  • Preference for BPA-free and tamper-proof packaging in baby food, dairy, and fresh produce.
  • Demand for antimicrobial, active packaging that extends shelf life and prevents contamination.
Cost vs. Value
  • Consumers sought affordable yet reliable packaging; sustainability was secondary to price.
  • Willing to pay more for eco-friendly packaging with clear sustainability claims.
Aesthetics & Branding
  • Transparent packaging for fresh food visibility and premium appeal.
  • Enhanced focus on custom-printed, branded, and QR-code enabled smart packaging.
Factor Manufacturer Priorities (2020 to 2024) & (2025 to 2035)
Sustainability
  • Exploring light weighting and PCR content, but cost constraints limited adoption.
  • Investing heavily in mono-material and bio-based thermoforms to comply with EPR and corporate sustainability goals.
Convenience & Functionality
  • Focus on cost-effective, high-speed production for standard packaging formats.
  • Developing customized, functional thermoformed designs catering to evolving meal kits, frozen meals, and takeout trends.
Material Preferences
  • Reliance on PS, PVC, and virgin PET due to low-cost availability.
  • Moving towards rPET, PP, and biodegradable alternatives to meet regulatory & retailer demands.
Health & Safety
  • Compliance with basic food safety regulations, ensuring BPA-free status.
  • Advancing barrier coatings and antimicrobial packaging solutions for dairy, meat, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Cost vs. Value
  • Low-cost production focus, balancing material costs and operational efficiency.
  • Long-term cost-benefit approach, integrating automation & sustainable material investments despite higher initial expenses.
Aesthetics & Branding
  • Basic branding and design elements for cost-effective packaging.
  • Investing in digitally printed thermoformed solutions, smart labels, and interactive consumer engagement features.

Over the next few years, demand will be fueled by growing thermoforming technology innovation, increased packaging automation, and increased consumer demand for sustainable, tamper-evident packaging. Foodservice and e-commerce package usage will be one of the primary drivers of demand, namely microwave-safe, recyclable, high-barrier thermoformed packaging containers.

Additionally, biodegradable and compostable material innovation used for packaging and investment in closed-loop recycling equipment will transform industry dynamics. With ever-tighter sustainability legislation globally, mono-material and multi-functional pack formats will come under the spotlight to provide improved recyclability and circular economy behavior.

Market Concentration

Tier 1 company leaders are distinguished by their extensive portfolio and use of advanced production technology. These market leaders are stand out because of their extensive expertise in manufacturing and reconditioning across multiple packaging formats and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base.

They offer a wide range of series including reconditioning, recycling, and manufacturing utilizing the latest technology and meeting the regulatory standards providing the highest quality. Prominent companies within Tier 1 include Amcor Plc, DS Smith plc, Huhtamaki Group, Mondi Plc, Sealed Air Corporation, Berry Global, Inc.

Tier 2 companies are defined by a strong presence overseas and in-depth market knowledge. These market players have good technology and ensure regulatory compliance but may not have advanced technology and wide global reach.

Prominent companies in Tier 2 include Winpak Ltd., Royal Inter Pack Co., Ltd., Anchor Packaging, Inc., Tekni-Plex, Inc., Dopla S.p.A., Universal Protective Packaging, Inc., Placon Corporation Inc., Sonoco Products Company, Easy Pak, Borealis AG, Pöppelmann GmbH & Co. KG, Universal Plastics Corporation, Lindar Corporation, ETIMEX Primary Packaging GmbH, Sinclair & Rush, Inc., Thrace Group, DordanMfg, Andex, FLEXcon, Nefab AB, Tek Pak Inc.

Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche markets. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local market demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment. They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 3, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized market, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and formalization when compared to organized competitors.

Region-Wise Trends: Past Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Future Projections 2025 to 2035

Region 2020 to 2024 (Past Trends)
North America High demand for PET and PP thermoformed clamshells and trays in fresh produce, dairy, and QSRs; growing adoption of PCR content in packaging due to retailer mandates.
Europe Strict single-use plastic bans driving the transition from PS and PVC to rPET , PP, and fiber-based containers; leading region in sustainable packaging adoption.
Asia-Pacific Rapid expansion of ready-to-eat meal packaging due to urbanization; strong demand for cost-effective PS and PVC thermoformed containers in emerging markets.
Latin America Growth in foodservice and fresh produce packaging, with PET and PP trays dominating; cost-driven packaging choices by manufacturers.
Middle East & Africa Rising adoption of thermoformed packaging in dairy and beverage applications; import dependency on plastic materials.
Region 2025 to 2035 (Future Projections)
North America Accelerated shift to fully recyclable and biodegradable materials; major investments in closed-loop recycling and automation in thermoforming.
Europe Full enforcement of EPR regulations; mass adoption of bio-based and compostable thermoformed containers, especially in dairy, bakery, and pharma packaging.
Asia-Pacific Shift toward sustainable, high-barrier thermoformed trays as governments in China, India, and Japan enforce recyclability and plastic waste reduction policies.
Latin America Expansion of sustainable thermoforming solutions as regional food exporters align with global eco-friendly packaging standards.
Middle East & Africa Increased local production of rPET and PP-based thermoformed trays to reduce imports; growth in premium food packaging for high-end retail.

Country-wise Insights

The section below covers the industry analysis for the thermoformed containersmarket for different countries. Market demand analysis on key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and others, is provided. USA is anticipated to remain at the forefront in North America, with a CAGR of 3.9% through 2035. In South Asia & Pacific, India is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.8% by 2035.

Countries Value CAGR ( 2025 to 2035 )
USA 3.9%
Canada 2.8%
Brazil 5.1%
Argentina 4.5%
Germany 2.1%
China 5.4%
India 6.8%

Expansion of Fresh Produce and Berry Packaging in the USA Thermoformed Containers Market

Growing demand for fresh berries, salads, and organic fruit is driving USA market demand for thermoformed containers. As California, Florida, and Washington are the country's top berry-producing states, manufacturers and retailers are finding innovative applications for PET and rPET clamshells and ventilated trays to ensure maximum product visibility, shelf life, and avoidance of shipping damage.

This trend towards high-clarity, tamper-evident packaging is being led by high food safety requirements along with growing consumer demand for pre-washed, ready-to-eat produce and produce items. Retailers at grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, and Costco are demanding post-consumer resin (PCR) and recyclable packaging and encouraging the utilization of eco-friendly thermoformed packaging containers.

In addition, fresh produce packing house automation is providing the scope for thermoformed containers with precision-designed structures that are deployable in the application of high-speed sealer and filling machinery, thus making efficiency and satisfaction of fluctuating packaging needs possible.

Growth of Sustainable Dairy Packaging in the Germany Thermoformed Containers Market

Germany's flourishing dairy sector, dominated by market leaders DMK Group, Müller, and Hochland, is one of Germany's key drivers for the thermoformed container industry. Combined with a robust consumer migration toward organic and sustainable dairy products, companies are finding it in their best interests to use lightweight, recyclable, and compostable thermoformed cups and tubs for dairy offerings like yogurt, quark, and dairy-free dairy substitutes.

The Bundesregierung (German Federal Government) rigid packaging waste directives, such as the Verpackungsgesetz (Packaging Act), have compelled the dairy firms to shift from the traditional PS and PVC cups to PP and rPET-based cups that comply with the recyclability goals.

Apart from this, retailers such as Aldi and REWE are demanding a minimum recycled content for dairy packaging, resulting in higher investment in mono-material thermoformed containers with better sorting and reprocessing efficiency. As changing dairy drinking habits trend towards single-serve and on-the-go consumption, demand for resealable and tamper-evident thermoformed cups and lids is growing at an extremely rapid pace.

Category-wise Insights

The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. By product, clamshell isprojected to grow ata CAGR of 4.6% through 2025 to 2035. Additionally, foodend uses are predicted to grow at a CAGR of 4.3%.

Polypropylene (PP)to Dominate theThermoformed Containers Market in terms of Value by Material Type

Material Type Value Share ( 2025 )
Polypropylene (PP) 38.6%

Polypropylene (PP) is taking the top spot of thermoformed containers due to its elastic nature, heat resistance, and recyclability and is rapidly becoming a popular choice among applications for ready-to-use meal, dairy, and microwave food packaging.

Industry leaders of food packagers and processors such as Nestlé, Danone, and Tesco are converting to single-material PP trays and cups in order to meet European recyclability requirements as well as extended producer responsibility (EPR) requirements.

The North American quick-service restaurant (QSR) market is also propelling the use of PP, with leak-proof and microwave-safe PP containers being the package of choice for meal delivery and takeout use. Developments in thin-wall thermoforming technology are also supporting the utilization of lighter yet more resilient PP packaging, lowering material cost without compromising strength.

Increasing use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) PP content in food packaging is also driving its leadership since environmental protection regulations in countries such as Germany, France, and the USA call for higher recycling within thermoformed packaging solutions.

In-house Manufacturingare theMostPreferredThermoformed Containersby Manufacturing

Manufacturing Value Share ( 2025 )
In-house Manufacturing 60.3%

In-house production is the favored option for thermoformed containers, particularly with high-volume food, dairy, and pharma brands wanting more cost control, product personalization, and supply chain integrity. Most major players such as Nestlé, Mondelez, and Unilever have dedicated thermoforming facilities to make custom yogurt cups, confectionery trays, and medical blister packs to guarantee brand-specific formats, material uniformity, and regulatory adherence.

The European dairy packaging market, with the top-three markets of Germany, France, and the Netherlands, prefers captive manufacturing of PP-based dairy container tubs and portion packs in order to be compliant with rigid EU food safety and recyclability requirements and with optimized packaging weight and material reduction.

Meal-prep companies and frozen food plants in the United States are looking at capital-intensive automated in-house thermoforming machines to manufacture microwave-safe trays and tamper-evident closures and decrease the reliance on outside suppliers. With increasing sustainability pressures, businesses are increasingly incorporating rPET and post-consumer recycled PP materials into their in-house manufacturing for sustainable packaging solutions.

Competitive Outlook

The thermoformed containers market is fragmented and competitive with multinational packaging companies, specialty thermoforming companies, and local manufacturers competing in the market. Amcor Plc, Sonoco Products Company, Berry Global Inc., and Pactiv Evergreen Inc. are market leaders since they possess high-volume manufacturing facilities, advanced thermoforming technologies, and green packaging solutions as their prime focus areas.

These companies are adding rPET, PP, and biodegradable thermoformed trays to their product lines to meet growing demand for recyclable, sustainable packaging for the food and beverage and health care channels. Besides this, these foodservice firm and retail chain joint ventures enable such companies to sign long-term agreements, further reinforcing their roles as market leaders.

Regional and smaller competitors like Faerch Group, Genpak LLC, and Sabert Corporation are capitalizing on private-label thermoformed packaging and specialty segments to gain traction. They market industry-specific requirements like high-barrier thermoformed trays, dual-ovenable containers, and portion-controlled meal package choices. Closed-loop recycling programs are prevalent with European makers due to the strict EU laws covering plastic packaging waste.

Conversely, North American businesses are employing automation and state-of-the-art high-tech in-line thermoforming technology to attain maximum manufacturing efficiency and meet growing demand for ready-to-eat food, frozen foods, and QSR packaging products.

Material innovation and sustainability are the biggest competition drivers, with companies using post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, bio-based plastics, and light-weighting technology as a means to maintain pace with regulation and changing consumer attitudes.

Top food and dairy industry players are also leading in-country manufacturing innovation, with players trying to cut costs, delivering material consistency, and creating supply chain resilience. With increasingly more strategic alliances, mergers, and acquisitions, the business is becoming consolidated to facilitate the large businesses to spread geographically as well as increase their technical capabilities in green thermoforming solutions.

Market Share Analysis by Company

Company Name Estimated Market Share (%)
Amcor Plc 10-12%
DS Smith plc 6-8%
Huhtamaki Group 8-10%
Mondi Plc 5-7%
Sealed Air Corporation 7-9%

Key Company Offerings and Activities

Company Name Key Offerings/Activities
Amcor Plc Specializes in rPET and PET thermoformed packaging for food, beverage, and healthcare industries. Strong focus on sustainability, developing lightweight and recyclable solutions. Recently invested in advanced recycling technologies to enhance circular economy efforts.
Huhtamaki Group Leading provider of fiber-based and plastic thermoformed trays, cups, and clamshells for foodservice and retail. Investing in compostable and bio-based alternatives to replace traditional plastics. Collaborates with QSRs and supermarkets for customized packaging solutions.
Berry Global, Inc. Manufactures high-barrier PP, PET, and PE thermoformed trays and lids for frozen foods, dairy, and industrial packaging. Strong in microwaveable and heat-seal solutions. Focused on post-consumer recycled (PCR) content integration in packaging.
Sealed Air Corporation Innovator in protective and modified-atmosphere thermoformed containers, primarily for fresh meat, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals. Developing active packaging technologies to extend shelf life and reduce food waste. Expanding its eco-friendly solutions portfolio.
Mondi Plc Leading supplier of mono-material thermoformed packaging for food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Strong emphasis on paper-based thermoformed alternatives and recyclable PET trays. Partnering with brands to create sustainable, lightweight packaging solutions.

Key Company Insights

Amcor Plc (10-12%)

Amcor remains a dominant force in the thermoformed containers market, primarily due to its leadership in sustainable PET and rPET-based packaging solutions. The company has been actively investing in recyclable and lightweight thermoforms to cater to the rising demand for eco-friendly packaging in food and healthcare.

Amcor’s recent expansion in advanced recycling technologies aligns with global sustainability goals, helping major brands transition toward circular economy packaging. The company’s strategic acquisitions and partnerships have further strengthened its global reach in custom thermoforming for dairy, bakery, and fresh food applications.

Huhtamaki Group (8-10%)

Huhtamaki has positioned itself as a leading innovator in foodservice and retail thermoformed packaging, with a strong focus on fiber-based alternatives and bio-based plastics. The company is actively phasing out polystyrene (PS) and PVC-based solutions in compliance with European and North American regulations.

With compostable trays, paper-based thermoforms, and heat-seal lidding, Huhtamaki is expanding its presence in quick-service restaurants (QSRs), supermarkets, and meal kit providers. Its investments in manufacturing efficiency and product differentiation have reinforced its standing in high-performance thermoformed food packaging.

Berry Global, Inc. (9-11%)

Berry Global continues to dominate the microwaveable and high-barrier PP and PET thermoformed tray segment, supplying major frozen food brands, dairy producers, and ready-to-eat meal providers. The company’s expertise in multi-compartment meal trays and tamper-proof food containers has made it a key supplier for restaurant delivery, meal prep services, and retail-ready packaging.

Berry has made significant progress in post-consumer recycled (PCR) content integration, addressing both food safety concerns and sustainability demands. Its custom thermoforming capabilities and strategic partnerships have helped maintain its competitive edge in the food packaging sector.

Sealed Air Corporation (7-9%)

Sealed Air is a pioneer in modified-atmosphere and high-barrier thermoformed packaging, primarily catering to fresh meat, seafood, and deli products. The company’s innovations in oxygen and moisture-resistant PET and PP trays help extend shelf life and reduce food waste, which is a critical factor in the fresh food supply chain.

Sealed Air has also developed active packaging technologies that maintain food freshness during transportation, making it a key supplier for retailers and foodservice operators. The company is aggressively working on sustainable packaging alternatives, including compostable and fiber-based materials, to address regulatory changes and shifting consumer preferences.

Mondi Plc (5-7%)

Mondi has established itself as a frontrunner in mono-material and recyclable thermoformed packaging, particularly in food, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications. The company has been heavily investing in paper-based thermoformed trays and lidding films, offering plastic-free alternatives that meet evolving sustainability regulations in Europe and North America.

Its focus on lightweight and high-barrier packaging has positioned Mondi as a preferred choice for premium food and pharmaceutical brands looking for innovative and eco-friendly solutions. The company’s ability to provide custom-engineered thermoforming solutions has helped expand its customer base in high-end consumer goods.

Recent Industry Developments in the Thermoformed Containers Market

  • In November 2024, Amcor, an Australian packaging giant, announced plans to acquire Berry Global Group through a scrip merger valued at USD 8.4 billion. This strategic move aims to establish Amcor as the world's largest plastic packaging company, enhancing its presence across North America, Western Europe, and emerging markets. The merger is expected to yield substantial cost synergies and expand Amcor's product portfolio in the thermoformed packaging sector.
  • In December 2024, TOPPAN Holdings reached an agreement to acquire Sonoco Products Company's Thermoformed & Flexible Packaging (TFP) business in the USA for USD 1.8 billion. This acquisition is set to enhance TOPPAN's global packaging operations by integrating TFP's extensive customer base and solution development capabilities, particularly in the food, retail, and medical segments.
  • In early 2024, Mexican eco-packaging company Biocup expanded its operations into the United States with support from the MileOne Incubator Program, launching in Laredo, Texas. Specializing in biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable disposable containers, Biocup aims to cater to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the USA market.

Key Players of the Thermoformed Containers Industry

  • Amcor Plc
  • DS Smith plc
  • Huhtamaki Group
  • Mondi Plc
  • Sealed Air Corporation
  • Berry Global, Inc
  • Winpak Ltd.
  • Royal Inter Pack Co., Ltd.
  • Anchor Packaging, Inc.
  • Tekni-Plex, Inc.
  • Dopla S.p.A.
  • Universal Protective Packaging, Inc.
  • Placon Corporation Inc.
  • Sonoco Products Company
  • Easy Pak
  • Borealis AG
  • Pöppelmann GmbH & Co. KG
  • Universal Plastics Corporation
  • Lindar Corporation
  • ETIMEX Primary Packaging GmbH
  • Sinclair & Rush, Inc.
  • Thrace Group
  • DordanMfg
  • Andex
  • FLEXcon
  • Nefab AB
  • Tek Pak Inc. ​

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the future of global thermoformed containers industry?

The global thermoformed containers industry is projected to witness CAGR of 4.1% between 2025 and 2035.

What was the worth of the global thermoformed containers industry in 2024?

The global thermoformed containers industry stood at USD 50,731.1 million in 2024.

What will the worth of global thermoformed containers industry by 2035 end?

The global thermoformed containers industry is anticipated to reach USD 78,397.5 million by 2035 end.

Which region to showcase the highest CAGR during forecast period?

South Asia & Pacific region is set to record the highest CAGR of 5.5% in the assessment period.

Who are the key manufacturer of global thermoformed containers industry?

The key players operating in the global thermoformed containers industry include Amcor Plc, DS Smith plc, Huhtamaki Group, Mondi Plc, Sealed Air Corporation, Berry Global, Inc.

Table of Content
  1. Executive Summary
  2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition
  3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments
  4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections
  5. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035
    • Material Type
    • Product
    • Distribution Channel
    • Manufacturing
    • End Use
  6. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By Material Type
    • Polyethylene (PE)
    • Polypropylene (PP)
    • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
    • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
    • Others (Polystyrene (PS), Bioplastics, etc.)
  7. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By Product
    • Clamshell
    • Cups
    • Bowls
    • Trays
    • Lids
    • Foils
    • Tubs
    • Bowls
  8. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By Distribution Channel
    • Manufacturer (Direct Sales)
    • Distributors
    • Retailers
  9. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By Manufacturing
    • In-house Manufacturing
    • Contract Manufacturing
  10. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By End Use
    • Food
    • Beverages
    • Personal care & Cosmetics
    • Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
    • Homecare & Toiletries
    • Electrical & Electronics
    • Automotive
    • Other End Use
  11. Global Market Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, By Region
    • North America
    • Latin America
    • East Asia
    • South Asia & Pacific
    • Eastern Europe
    • Western Europe
    • Middle East & Africa
  12. North America Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  13. Latin America Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  14. East Asia Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  15. South Asia & Pacific Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  16. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  17. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  18. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2020 to 2024 and Forecast 2025 to 2035, by Key Segments and Countries
  19. Sales Forecast 2025 to 2035 by Material Type, Product, Distribution Channel, Manufacturing, End Use, and for 30 Countries
  20. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
  21. Company Profile
    • Amcor Plc
    • DS Smith plc
    • Huhtamaki Group
    • Mondi Plc
    • Sealed Air Corporation
    • Berry Global, Inc
    • Winpak Ltd.
    • Royal Inter Pack Co., Ltd.
    • Anchor Packaging, Inc.
    • Tekni-Plex, Inc.

Key Segmentation

By Material Type:

In terms of material type, the industry is divided into polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), others (Polystyrene (PS), Bioplastics, etc.).

By Product:

In terms of product, the industry is segregated into clamshell, cups, bowls, trays, lids, foils, tubs, bowls.

By Distribution Channel:

In terms of distribution channel, the industry is segregated into manufacturer (direct sales), distributors, retailers.

By Manufacturing:

In terms of manufacturing, the industry is segregated into in-house manufacturing, contract manufacturing.

By End Use:

The market is classified by end usesuch asfood, beverages, personal care & cosmetics, pharmaceutical & healthcare, homecare & toiletries, electrical & electronics, automotive, other end use.

By Region:

Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East & Africa have been covered in the report.

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