The Metal Food Can Industry Analysis in Europe is valued at USD 8.78 billion in 2025. As per FMI's analysis, the Europe Metal Food Can industry will grow at a CAGR of 5.2% and reach USD 14.50 billion by 2035.
In 2024, the Europe Metal Foodindustryhas experienced moderate growth driven by increased demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. Consumer preference for sustainable packaging saw a shift towards metal food cans, which are more recyclable compared to other materials.
The rise in the consumption of ready-to-eat and processed foods, particularly in urban areas, also contributed to this growth. Manufacturers focused on reducing carbon footprints by adopting energy-efficient production processes, responding to both regulatory pressures and growing consumer demand for sustainable products.
Meanwhile, supply chain disruptions, caused by geopolitical tensions and the aftermath of the pandemic, led to fluctuations in raw material prices, especially for steel and aluminum. Despite this, companies remained resilient by optimizing production and increasing product diversification to include innovative metal can designs that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the industry is expected to continue its growth trajectory, supported by advancements in recycling technologies, rising demand for packaged food, and an increasing preference for sustainable packaging solutions. Industry players are likely to focus on innovation to stay competitive in this dynamic environment.Bottom of Form
Market Value Insights
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 8.78 billion |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 14.50 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.2% |
The Europe metal food can industry is poised for steady growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions. As consumer preference shifts towards eco-friendly options and convenience foods continue to rise, manufacturers in this sector are well-positioned to benefit. However, companies that fail to adopt sustainable practices and adapt to rising material costs may face challenges in maintaining competitiveness.
Executives in the Europe Metal Food Can industry should focus on advancing sustainable packaging technologies to meet increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions. Investing in research and development to improve the recyclability and efficiency of metal food cans will be essential in staying ahead of environmental regulations and consumer preferences. Additionally, companies should explore strategic partnerships with recycling companies and firms that specialize in green materials to differentiate their products in a competitive landscape.
Key risks include fluctuating raw material prices, particularly steel and aluminum, which could increase production costs. This presents a medium probability but high impact, requiring companies to adopt cost-containment strategies and alternative material sourcing. Furthermore, the rise in eco-conscious consumer behaviour presents both a significant opportunity and challenge, as manufacturers must adapt quickly to meet regulatory and consumer demands for sustainability.
Supply chain disruptions, particularly in the procurement of raw materials due to geopolitical factors, pose another medium-risk scenario that could delay production timelines. To mitigate these risks, companies should diversify their supplier base and invest in technological advancements that enhance operational efficiency. Companies focusing on innovation in product design and sustainable practices will be best positioned for growth, especially in the increasingly eco-conscious European industry.
Future Market Insights (FMI) conducted a comprehensive survey with key stakeholders in the Europe Metal Food Can industry, providing valuable insights into the industry's current trends and future outlook. According to the survey, 68% of stakeholders believe sustainability is the dominant trend shaping the industry, with increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging driving this shift.
Over 55% of respondents indicated that adopting recyclable materials is crucial for maintaining competitiveness, as European consumers increasingly prioritize environmental responsibility. Additionally, 72% of industry professionals emphasized the need for innovation in can design and production processes to reduce carbon footprints and enhance the recyclability of metal cans. As environmental regulations become stricter, 63% of stakeholders foresee a greater focus on developing low-emission production technologies within the next five years.
The survey also revealed that 59% of stakeholders view supply chain disruptions as a significant challenge to growth, particularly regarding the volatility in raw material prices such as steel and aluminum. Despite this, 70% of respondents expressed optimism about the long-term prospects of the industry, citing growing demand for packaged food and beverages as key growth drivers.
Furthermore, 49% of survey participants plan to invest in advanced recycling technologies in the next 1-2 years to address sustainability challenges. These findings underscore the importance of innovation, sustainability, and strategic investment as critical factors for the success of stakeholders in the evolving Europemetal food can industry.
| Region/Country | Impact of Policies and Regulations and Mandatory Certifications |
|---|---|
| Deutschland (Germany) | Germany enforces the Packaging Act (VerpackG), requiring companies to register their packaging with the Central Packaging Registry. Companies must also ensure that their packaging is recyclable. Certification for food safety management, such as ISO 22000, is essential for compliance. (Government of Germany) |
| Austria | Austria follows the Food Safety and Consumer Protection Act (LMSVG), which governs food packaging safety. Companies must ensure recyclability and comply with ISO 22000 certification. Environmental regulations also require packaging waste registration and compliance. (Austrian Packaging Law) |
| Confoederatio Helvetica (Switzerland) | Switzerland enforces the Ordinance on Materials in Contact with Food, regulating the safety of food packaging materials. Companies must comply with ISO 22000 for food safety and FSSC 22000 for food packaging safety certification. (Swiss Federal Government) |
| Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) | Central and Eastern Europe adheres to EU regulations under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, requiring companies to meet recycling and recovery targets. Companies are also required to obtain ISO 22000 certification to ensure food safety in packaging. (EU Packaging Directive) |
| Southern Europe | Southern European countries align with EU regulations, particularly the Packaging Waste Directive, which emphasizes recyclability and eco-friendly materials. Companies must comply with ISO 22000 certification for food safety management and FSSC 22000 for food packaging. (EU Regulations) |
| France | France has enacted the Anti-Waste and Circular Economy Law, which focuses on reducing plastic waste and enforcing recycling targets by 2025. Companies must comply with ISO 22000 for food safety management and follow regulations for food contact materials. (French Government) |
| Rest of Europe | Countries in the rest of Europe adhere to the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, ensuring compliance with waste management and recyclability targets. ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000 certifications are mandatory for food packaging safety and food contact material safety. (EU Regulations) |
The "Less than 200gm" capacity segment experiences the highest CAGR of 5.2%. This growth is mainly driven by the high demand for small-sized cans. These cans are widely used in convenience foods like ready-to-eat meals, baby food, and beverages. They have a broad consumer base due to their affordability, portability, and ease of use.
These products have a broad consumer base because of their affordability, portability, and ease of use. Small-sized cans are commonly used for everyday consumer goods, which further boosts their demand. The trend towards smaller portion sizes and the increasing adoption of portable food products are major drivers for the growth of this segment. With growing urbanization and busy lifestyles, the demand for small-sized food cans is expected to rise steadily in the coming years.
The "Aluminum" material segment sees the highest CAGR of 5.5%. Aluminum’s growth is driven by its lightweight, cost-effective, and recyclable properties. These features make it a preferred choice for food and beverage packaging. The material is widely used in beverage cans, especially in the soft drink and beer industries, which continue to experience global growth.
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, aluminum's sustainability benefits help it stand out compared to other materials like steel. Its ease of recycling further positions aluminum as a critical material in the packaging sector. The rising global preference for eco-friendly materials supports its continued growth.
The "2 Piece Cans" segment has the highest CAGR of 5.4%. This growth is due to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of 2-piece cans. These cans are becoming increasingly popular in food and beverage packaging. These cans, typically used for beverages and food products like fruits, vegetables, and soups, benefit from their streamlined production process, which reduces production costs.
The demand for 2-piece cans is particularly high in the beverage sector, driven by both convenience and consumer preference for efficient packaging solutions. As the focus on reducing manufacturing costs and improving environmental sustainability continues, this segment is likely to lead the industry.
The "Infant Formula" end-use segment shows the highest CAGR of 5.6%. This growth is driven by rising awareness about child nutrition and the growing global population. Urbanization, changing lifestyles, and the increasing number of working mothers further fuel the demand for packaged, easy-to-use baby food products.
Additionally, advancements in packaging that ensure product safety and nutrition retention contribute to this segment’s growth. With rising disposable incomes and changing social dynamics, the demand for infant formula in various regions, especially in emerging industries, will continue to support the growth of this segment in the coming years.
The industry in the DACH region is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2035. This region, especially Germany, is one of the largest producers and consumers of metal food cans in Europe. The growth is driven by strong demand for packaged food products, increasing preference for eco-friendly packaging solutions, and technological innovations in food preservation.
Germany, in particular, continues to lead in sustainable packaging trends, with stricter environmental regulations fueling the demand for recyclable and biodegradable packaging options. Austria and Switzerland are expected to follow suit with similar trends, contributing to the overall growth.
In Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) sales are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2025 to 2035. The CEE region is experiencing rapid economic development, along with a shift toward modern retail formats and increased disposable incomes.
Countries such as Poland, Romania, and Hungary are expected to see a rise in demand for convenient food packaging, especially canned products. This growth is also supported by an increasing urban population and expanding retail networks, which are making packaged food more accessible to consumers. Sustainability will also be a key driver of innovation in the packaging space within this region.
Sales in Southern Europe are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2035. Countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece are expected to continue their stable demand for canned food products, though at a slightly slower pace compared to other European regions.
The growth rate is tempered by a mature industry with less room for expansion. However, there is still significant potential in the ready-to-eat and convenience food sectors, which rely heavily on metal food cans. With increasing environmental concerns, sustainability initiatives in packaging are expected to contribute to industry growth in the coming years.
The industry in France is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2035. France is one of the largest consumers of food and beverages in Europe, and its demand for metal food cans is expected to rise steadily, particularly in the ready-to-eat and canned food sectors.
The country’s growing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions will drive demand for recyclable and reusable metal cans. Additionally, innovations in food preservation and packaging technology, along with the French preference for convenience foods, will further contribute to the industry's growth in the coming years.
Sales in Rest of Europe are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2035. This category encompasses countries outside the core Western European regions, including Eastern and smaller nations in Europe. As the consumer base in these countries grows, particularly with rising middle-class populations, the demand for packaged foods, including metal food cans, is expected to increase.
Changes in consumer lifestyles, including a preference for convenience foods, and an expanding retail sector will drive this growth. In addition, innovations in sustainable packaging will make these industries attractive for future investments.
The European metal food can industry is witnessing strategic shifts in 2024, with Crown Holdings expanding its sustainable packaging solutions through a new plant in Poland, targeting lightweight, recyclable cans. Ball Corporation partnered with a leading food brand to introduce smart, RFID-enabled cans for enhanced traceability.
Meanwhile, Tetra Pak and Ardagh Metal Packaging are collaborating on next-gen coatings to improve shelf life and recyclability (Tetra Pak). These developments underscore a focus on sustainability and digital integration in the sector.
In 2024, Amcor Plc is poised to maintain its leadership in the European metal food can industry with its focus on sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions. Amcor’s commitment to innovation in eco-friendly packaging, coupled with strong partnerships with leading food brands, allows it to dominate the region. Multi-Color Corporation (15-20%) continues to expand its position by offering premium printed cans and leveraging its robust capabilities in decoration and labeling, meeting the growing consumer demand for personalized packaging.
Toyo Seikan Co. Ltd. (10-15%) strengthens its European presence by focusing on lightweight can technology, aligning with the industry’s drive for cost reduction and sustainability. Sonoco Products Company (8-12%) continues to capture industry share in Europe by leveraging its packaging innovations and expanding its reach in the ready-to-eat and convenience food sectors. Silgan Holdings Inc. (7-10%) focuses on enhancing its manufacturing capacity across Europe, supported by its ongoing efforts to optimize production processes and reduce environmental impact.
Trivium Packaging (5-8%) is driving industry growth with its innovations in tamper-proof and sustainability-focused designs, capitalizing on the rising demand for secure and environmentally conscious packaging. The Massilly Group (4-6%) remains strong in the metal food can industry with a focus on high-quality production and sustainable solutions, catering to both large and niche industry segments.
Colep Packaging (3-5%) is positioning itself as a competitive player with a focus on the dairy and beverage sectors, offering flexible and customized packaging options. Envases Group (2-4%) continues to expand its product offerings in premium canning solutions, while Canpack (2 -4%) is enhancing its European industry penetration with advanced production technology and a focus on eco-friendly materials. Nussbaum Matzingen AG (1-3%) is capitalizing on its long-standing expertise in producing aluminum cans, catering to the niche premium segment in Europe.
The industry is segmented into less than 200gm, 200 to 500gm, 500 to 1000gm and above 1000gm
The industry is divided into aluminum, steel, stainless steel, carbon steel/mild steel and tinplate
The industry is segment into 2piece cans and 3piece cans
The industry is divided into fruits & vegetables, tomatoes, fish, dairy, pet food, infant formula and others (Ready to Eat, Sauces)
The industry is studied across Deutschland, Austria, Confoederatio Helvetica (DACH), Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), Southern Europe, France and Rest of Europe
The Europe Metal Food Can industry is valued at USD 8.78 billion in 2025.
The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% and reach USD 14.50 billion by 2035.
Growth is driven by increased demand for eco-friendly packaging and a rise in the consumption of ready-to-eat and processed foods.
Key risks include fluctuating raw material prices, particularly for steel and aluminum, and the need for quick adaptation to eco-conscious consumer behaviour.
Companies are focusing on energy-efficient production processes and developing innovative, recyclable can design to meet growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging.
Explore Packaging Formats Insights
Metal Food Can Industry Analysis in Europe
Thank you!
You will receive an email from our Business Development Manager. Please be sure to check your SPAM/JUNK folder too.
