The thermoformed tubs market is projected to grow from USD 11.7 billion in 2025 to USD 19.3 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. Sales in 2024 reached USD 11.1 billion, reflecting a steady increase in demand across various industries.
This growth has been attributed to the rising need for efficient and sustainable packaging solutions in sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. The increasing adoption of thermoformed tubs for their ability to ensure product safety, prevent contamination, and extend shelf life has further propelled the market's expansion.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Market Size in 2025 | USD 11.7 billion |
| Projected Market Size in 2035 | USD 19.3 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.1% |
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 that 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 shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions has significantly influenced the thermoformed tubs market. Manufacturers have been focusing on developing tubs that are energy-efficient, compatible with recyclable materials, and offer excellent sealing properties. Innovations include the integration of advanced materials, modular designs, and the use of natural additives to enhance product performance. These advancements align with global sustainability goals and regulatory requirements, making thermoformed tubs an attractive option for environmentally conscious industries.
The thermoformed tubs market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care packaging industries. Companies investing in sustainable materials, innovative designs, and eco-friendly production processes are expected to gain a competitive edge.
As global supply chains expand and environmental regulations become more stringent, the adoption of thermoformed tubs is anticipated to rise, offering cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for packaging. Furthermore, the integration of smart technologies and automation in packaging applications is expected to enhance operational efficiency and meet the evolving needs of various industries.
The market is segmented based on material type, sales channel, shape & design, end use, and region. By material type, the market includes plastic-such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and biodegradable polymers-and paper. In terms of sales channel, the market is divided into retail, institutional, and household segments.
By shape & design, the market is categorized into round, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and custom/novelty shapes. In terms of end use, the market includes food & beverage (covering meat, poultry, seafood, bakery & confectionery, dairy products, ready-to-eat food, and other food products), pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care, electrical & electronics, and others. 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) is projected to hold 38.5% of the global thermoformed tubs market by 2025, as it has been widely adopted for its excellent thermal stability, chemical resistance, and suitability for microwave and freezer applications. Its rigidity and lightweight structure have enabled the production of tubs that are durable, stackable, and capable of preserving both dry and wet contents.
PP-based thermoformed tubs have been used extensively in ready meals, dairy products, and refrigerated desserts packaging, where product visibility and sealing compatibility have been prioritized. The ability to be molded into various shapes and sizes with tamper-evident features has further increased its adoption in regulated food markets.
The material’s recyclability and compatibility with barrier coatings have also supported its inclusion in sustainable packaging portfolios. As demand for portion-controlled, on-the-go, and resalable food containers grows, polypropylene is expected to remain the leading choice across thermoformed tub formats.
The food & beverage industry is anticipated to account for 56.8% of the thermoformed tubs market by 2025, as tubs have been used extensively for portion-controlled servings, prepared meals, dairy, dips, sauces, fruits, and baked items. Their ability to preserve freshness, provide leak-proof containment, and facilitate branding through in-mold labeling has made them integral to both retail and foodservice packaging.
Single-serve and multi-compartment tub formats have been adopted to meet shifting consumption habits and growing demand for convenience foods. The compatibility of thermoformed tubs with heat-sealing films, Snap-On lids, and modified atmosphere packaging has also enhanced shelf life and consumer safety.
As demand increases for hygienic, resalable, and recyclable packaging solutions across chilled and ambient food categories, the food & beverage industry is expected to retain dominance in the market. Support from automation in fill-and-seal processes and growth in meal-kit subscriptions are also expected to drive further adoption.
During the period from 2020 to 2024, the industry for thermoformed tubs experienced consistent growth on account of increasing consumer interest in convenience packaging, corporate commitments towards sustainability, and growing regulatory pressures on plastic packaging. However, issues such as volatility in raw material prices and competition from other packaging materials were still the top concerns for producers.
The industry also experienced heightened investments in research aimed at enhancing material performance and recyclability. As growing concerns over single-use plastics drove regulatory agencies to promote alternative packaging options, rising innovations in thermoforming technology provided better manufacturing efficiency coupled with cost savings.
In the coming years, 2025 to 2035, industry growth will be fueled by advances in biodegradable thermoformed materials, high-barrier coatings, and manufacturing efficiency. The use of AI and automation in packaging design and thermoforming operations will continue to make sectors more competitive.
Moreover, rising demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions in dairy, confectionery, and ready-to-eat meal segments will provide new growth prospects. Firms are also concentrating on improving the performance and durability of thermoformed tubs in order to fulfil industry-specific requirements. The growth of personalized and intelligent packaging solutions tailored for niche sectors is likely to gain strength in the future years.
| Key Drivers | Key Restraints |
|---|---|
| Growing regulatory and consumer focus: Growing regulatory and consumer focus on recyclable, biodegradable, and eco-friendly packaging materials. | Environmental Issues: Conventional thermoformed tubs add to plastic wastes, compelling more stringent regulations and increasing demand for substitute packaging. |
| Growing Food & Beverage Sector: Expanding demand for convenient, tamper-proof, and lightweight packaging, especially for ready-to-eat foods and dairy products. | Raw Material Cost Volatility: Volatility in PET, PP, and other plastic resin prices influences production costs and profitability. |
| Technological Progress in Thermoforming: High-barrier coating, multi-layer packaging, and automation are further improving product functionality. | Initial Tooling and Production Expenses are Exorbitant: Establishing the processes of thermoforming involves large capital outlays, which restrict entry for small industry players. |
| Increasing Consumer Demand for Portion- Controlled Packaging: Greater emphasis on single-serve and customized packing solutions in the food and personal care categories. | Stringent Food Safety and Compliance Requirements: Compliance with changing food safety requirements, particularly in pharmaceutical and dairy, increases production complexity. |
| Integration of Smart Packaging Solutions: Utilization of RFID, QR codes, and temperature-sensitive labelling for increased product tracking and consumer interaction. | Limited Biodegradable Thermoforming Options: Although developments are being made, fully compostable thermoformed materials are still costly and less commercially attractive. |
Impact Assessment of Key Drivers
| Key Drivers | Impact Level |
|---|---|
| Growing Demand for Sustainable Packaging | High |
| Expansion of the Food & Beverage Industry | High |
| Advancements in Thermoforming Technology | Medium |
| Rising Consumer Preference for Portion-Controlled Packaging | Medium |
| Integration of Smart Packaging Solutions | Medium |
Impact Assessment of Key Restraints
| Key Restraints | Impact Level |
|---|---|
| Environmental Concerns | High |
| Fluctuations in Raw Material Costs | High |
| Recycling Challenges | High |
| Stringent Food Safety and Compliance Regulations | Medium |
| Limited Biodegradable Thermoforming Options | Medium |
The United States has the largest industry for thermoformed tubs and enjoys a healthy CAGR of 5.4%, stimulated by the growth in demand for cost-efficient, durable, and light-weight packaging products across various industries including food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, and consumer durables. High-strength, tamper-resistant, and recyclable tubs are necessitating innovations that guarantee increased protection of products and improved shelf life.
In addition, regulatory policies supporting sustainable and food-safe packaging are compelling companies toward the use of biodegradable and reusable thermoformed tubs. Furthermore, innovation in multi-layer barrier films and heat-sealable lids is enhancing product integrity and freshness.
Companies are also investigating smart packaging technologies like RFID tracking and QR-coded labeling for increasing traceability and consumer interaction. In addition, the growing use of thermoformed tubs in meal kits, frozen food products, and dairy products is fueling innovation in sustainable and aesthetically pleasing packaging options.
The UK thermoformed tubs industry is growing as companies focus on sustainability, regulatory requirements, and longer product shelf life. The increasing need for tamper-proof, high-barrier, and recyclable thermoformed tubs has resulted in wider adoption across various industries such as ready-to-eat meals, bakery items, and personal care packaging.
Government policies encouraging plastic waste reduction and sustainable packaging are also driving companies to incorporate eco-friendly materials into their offerings. In addition, advancements in biodegradable and compostable thermoformed tubs are making them more appealing to eco-friendly consumers. Firms are also considering high-quality branding and printing possibilities on thermoformed tubs for better marketing and consumer interaction. Moreover, the UK industry will grow at a CAGR of 4.9% through the forecast period.
Japan's thermoformed tub industry is expanding steadily as a result of the growing demand for lightweight, strong, and aesthetically pleasing packaging in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics sectors. The Japanese industry is expected to grow at a consistent CAGR of 4.6% from 2025 to 2035. Businesses are creating customized thermoformed tubs with superior barrier properties, enhanced sealing mechanisms, and longer shelf-life characteristics.
Under tough food safety regulations and sustainable packaging, companies are shifting towards recyclable and bio-based thermoformed tub solutions. Further, growth in anti-fog coatings and oxygen barrier films is propelling demand in the applications where protection from moisture and air is necessary.
Companies are also investing in automation-friendly processes for thermoforming to enhance efficiency in production and minimize material wastage. In addition, the emergence of convenience-oriented meal packaging and high-end product presentation in Japan is driving demand for innovative thermoformed tub solutions.
South Korea's industry for thermoformed tubs is growing at a fast rate as a result of growing demand for lightweight, microwavable, and tamper-evident packaging solutions in foodservice, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. The demand for cost-efficient and environmentally friendly thermoformed tubs has encouraged manufacturers to create solutions with enhanced recyclability, heat resistance, and impact strength.
Government policies that encourage sustainable and food-safe packaging also contribute to industry growth. Further, companies are embedding digital tracking technologies like QR codes and RFID tags in thermoformed tubs to enhance supply chain transparency.
The increasing need for premium, resalable, and multi-compartment packaging solutions is also accelerating adoption. Additionally, studies on antimicrobial and bio-based thermoformed tubs are assisting companies in creating innovative solutions specific to hygiene-focused and convenience-oriented segments. Therefore, the South Korean industry will expand at a CAGR of 5.1% towards the end of the forecast period.
India's thermoformed tubs industry is witnessing high growth as a result of growing demand for cost-efficient and eco-friendly packaging solutions in the food, dairy, pharmaceuticals, and personal care sectors. Urbanization and shifting lifestyles have resulted in huge demand for convenience packaging, especially in ready-to-eat meals and dairy segments.
The drive by the government towards sustainable options, such as plastic waste minimization measures and extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, is prompting producers to introduce recyclable and biodegradable thermoform tubs. The growth in the online shopping and food delivery industries is also stimulating demand for durable and tamper-evident packaging. Still, the industry is confronted with several challenges like volatile raw material prices and underdeveloped recycling networks.
In spite of these challenges, higher investments in sophisticated thermoforming technologies and the availability of low-cost raw materials are likely to propel consistent industry growth. The growing dominance of multinational brands and domestic manufacturers embracing sustainability trends will also influence the sector dynamics in the future.
China continues to be among the largest and most rapidly expanding sectors for thermoformed tubs, driven by increasing industrialization, a booming food processing industry, and growing consumer demand for high-quality packaging. The move towards sustainable and environment-friendly materials is gaining momentum with government legislation focused on plastic waste elimination and recycling programs.
Pre-eminent manufacturers are concentrating on new thermoforming processes to make lightweight, high-barrier, and tamper-resistant tubs appropriate for food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Online shopping and meal delivery service expansion are also stimulating demand for resilient, heat-proof, and resealable packaging. Environmental regulations and unstable raw material prices are the hurdles for manufacturers, though.
The industry is also seeing more investment in automation and AI-based manufacturing to improve efficiency and minimize wastage of materials. With ongoing developments in material science and the broader usage of recyclable polymers, China's thermoformed packaging sector has a steady growth outlook, aiming to become a leader in international packaging sustainability efforts.
Germany's industry for thermoformed tubs is dominated by robust regulatory compliance, innovative packaging technologies, and sustainability. Germany's strict environmental regulations, such as the Packaging Act (VerpackG) and European Union plastic waste reduction directives, are compelling manufacturers to use recyclable, compostable, and bio-based materials.
High-barrier thermoformed tubs are gaining traction, especially in the food, dairy, and pharma industry, where product freshness and safety are paramount. Development in material engineering, such as advancements in multi-layer recyclable plastic, is boosting industry growth. Also, automation and Industry 4.0 technology's huge base in the manufacturing sector in Germany is leading to increased efficiency and cost saving in the process of thermoform packaging manufacturing.
Nonetheless, significant manufacturing costs as well as demanding regulatory conditions offer entry barriers to new players. The increasing demand for premium and customized packaging solutions, coupled with increased consumer concerns regarding sustainability, is likely to dictate the direction of the industry, positioning Germany as a primary driver in Europe's thermoformed packaging industry.
The industry for thermoformed tubs has a high to moderate level of concentration with a few large players possessing a high share and many more small-scale manufacturers contributing to fragmentation. Consolidation among the industry is highly influenced by the high capital investment needs, which include huge costs for specialized machinery, tooling, and material development in establishing the facilities for thermoforming.
Strict regulatory standards, particularly in the food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care sectors, pose additional entry barriers, making it difficult for smaller participants to gain a foothold. Despite the dominance of a few major manufacturers, regional and niche players contribute to market fragmentation.
These players serve specialized industries, providing value-added packaging services for high-quality food items, luxury cosmetics, and specialty pharma applications. Yet, achieving scalability and price competitiveness continues to be a critical challenge for such entrants, rendering the sector a combination of consolidation at the top and regional fragmentation.
The industry for thermoformed tubs is driven by increasing demand in food, dairy, pharmaceutical, and personal care uses. The industry is seeing innovation through new material developments, including biodegradable plastics, high-barrier coatings, and light-weight thermoforming technologies, responding to performance, sustainability, and efficiency concerns.
Furthermore, developments in automated manufacturing, intelligent packaging solutions, and AI-based supply chain management are also influencing industry trends. The increasing demand for sustainable, tamper-evident packaging solutions is also fueling the growth of the industry.
The sector is also witnessing hybrid thermoformed packaging solutions that combine added durability and barrier protection. Also, partnerships among packaging companies and consumer goods manufacturers are driving innovation in customized thermoformed tub solutions for particular product requirements.
The demand is driven by the need for lightweight, durable, and sustainable packaging in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries. Advancements in recyclable and high-barrier materials are further fueling growth.
Key challenges include environmental concerns related to plastic packaging, high initial setup costs, and compliance with evolving food safety and sustainability regulations.
Companies are increasingly adopting recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable materials to meet regulatory requirements and consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging.
The industry is moderately concentrated, with a few major manufacturers leading due to advanced technology and economies of scale, while regional and niche players contribute to market fragmentation.
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Thermoformed Tubs Market
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