The thermoformed containers market is projected to grow from USD 52.5 billionin 2025 to USD 78.4 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period. Sales in 2024 reached USD 50.6 billion. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for lightweight, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging solutions across various industries, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.The versatility of thermoformed containers, such as clamshells, trays, and cups, has led to their widespread adoption, particularly in ready-to-eat meals and fresh produce packaging.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 52.5 billion |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 78.4 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.1% |
In April 2025, Sonoco Products Company, a core mid-cap growth and value equity which is a global leader in high-value sustainable packaging, announced it has completed the sale of its Thermoformed and Flexibles Packaging business to TOPPAN Holdings Inc. “Today marks a milestone in achieving our strategy to transform Sonoco into a simpler, stronger and more sustainable Company.
We extend our best wishes for continued success to our approximately 4,500 former TFP teammates and their new Toppan team,” said Howard Coker, president and CEO. “As previously communicated, we are utilizing the approximately USD 1.5 billion of after-tax cash proceeds to reduce leverage. Sonoco is moving forward with a focused portfolio and an improved financial position that will enable us to further invest in growing our sustainable metal and fiber consumer and industrial packaging businesses.”
The thermoformed containers industry is witnessing significant advancements in sustainability and innovation. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient production processes to reduce environmental impact. The integration of smart technologies, such as real-time temperature monitoring and GPS tracking, has enhanced the functionality and reliability of thermoformed containers, particularly in the medical and food sectors. These innovations not only improve product safety and shelf life but also align with global efforts to promote sustainable packaging practices.
Thermoformed Containers Market is poised for continued growth, driven by the ongoing expansion of various end-use industries and the increasing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions. The market's trajectory suggests a steady rise in demand for innovative, eco-friendly thermoformed containers that cater to both consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.
Companies investing in research and development to create durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly thermoformed containers are expected to gain a competitive edge. The integration of advanced materials and ergonomic designs will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Thermoformed Containers Market. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and acquisitions highlight the industry's focus on expanding capabilities and meeting evolving market demands.
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.
The market is segmented based on material type, product, end-use industry, and region. By material type, the market includes polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polylactic acid (PLA), and paper-based & biodegradable materials. In terms of product, the market is categorized into trays, clamshells, lids & cups, blisters, and bowls & boxes.
By end-use industry, the market comprises food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics & personal care, electronics, industrial packaging, and retail & consumer goods. Regionally, the market is analyzed across North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Oceania, and the Middle East & Africa.
Polypropylene (PP) has been projected to capture 38.6% of the global thermoformed containers market in 2025 due to its excellent heat resistance, lightweight properties, and cost-effectiveness. It has been widely used across food trays, pharmaceutical blister packs, and storage containers requiring durability and moisture resistance. Thermoformed PP containers have been preferred for their rigidity and compatibility with microwave and freezer use. A balance between clarity and toughness has been maintained in multilayer structures.
Superior chemical resistance has allowed PP containers to be utilized for cosmetics and industrial packaging that involve reactive or oily substances. PP has also been adopted in sterile medical packaging owing to its ability to withstand autoclaving. Customized shapes, lid-sealing options, and barrier coatings have been integrated into PP-based container designs. Improved thermoform ability has enabled manufacturers to deliver intricate and stackable geometries with reduced cycle times.
Environmental sustainability has been addressed through the development of recyclable PP resins and initiatives for mono-material packaging systems. Light weighting has been implemented in foodservice and take-out containers to reduce plastic use without compromising strength. Post-consumer recycled (PCR) polypropylene grades have increasingly been adopted to meet regulatory requirements. Many companies have shifted toward closed-loop manufacturing systems that recover and reuse PP material.
Strong demand from fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), healthcare, and retail sectors has reinforced the prominence of PP in thermoformed container solutions. Shelf visibility, leak-proof performance, and thermal compatibility have driven widespread adoption across multiple industries. Packaging producers have invested in PP innovations to meet emerging needs for hygiene, shelf appeal, and recyclability. The material’s technical adaptability and economic feasibility are expected to sustain its leadership position through the forecast period.
The food and beverage industry has been expected to account for 44.2% of the global thermoformed containers market in 2025 due to rising demand for ready-to-eat meals, bakery items, snacks, and dairy products. Retailers and QSRs have relied on thermoformed trays, clamshells, and containers for product display, hygiene, and portion control. Fresh produce, meat, and seafood have been increasingly packaged using high-barrier, sealed thermoformed formats. Visual appeal and tamper resistance have been emphasized for on-shelf differentiation.
Microwave-safe and freezer-compatible thermoformed packaging has been used for frozen meals, prepared foods, and convenience servings. Multi-compartment designs have facilitated portion packaging, reducing cross-contamination and enhancing user experience. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been integrated into thermoformed containers to extend shelf life for perishable food. Heat-sealable lids and embossed bases have supported secure closure and branding.
Recyclable and biodegradable thermoformed packaging options have gained traction as sustainability regulations have tightened. PET and PP materials with recyclable properties have replaced foam-based food trays in several regions. Compostable bio-based materials have also been used for single-serve food containers in cafés and takeaways.
Brands have opted for clear containers with printed inserts to communicate freshness and nutritional information. High throughput and automation compatibility have made thermoformed containers the preferred solution for food processing and packaging facilities. Supply chain efficiency and light weighting have reduced logistics costs while maintaining structural integrity. Safety, visibility, and cost advantages have positioned thermoformed packaging as essential across bakery, dairy, produce, and meat product lines. Continued innovations in barrier coatings and tamper-evident designs are expected to strengthen its usage in the food and beverage domain.
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.
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% |
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.
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.
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.
Recent Industry Developments in the Thermoformed Containers Market
The global thermoformed containers industry is projected to witness CAGR of 4.1% between 2025 and 2035.
The global thermoformed containers industry stood at USD 50.6 billion in 2024.
The global thermoformed containers industry is anticipated to reach USD 78.4 billion by 2035 end.
South Asia & Pacific region is set to record the highest CAGR of 5.5% in the assessment period.
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.
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Thermoformed Containers Market
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