Metal Cans Market Analysis North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, South America - US, China, Germany, Japan, France - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

Metal Cans Market Size 2024-2028

The metal cans market size is forecast to increase by USD 6.31 billion, at a CAGR of 2.21% between 2023 and 2028.

Major Market Trends & Insights

• APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 32% growth during the forecast period.
• By the End-user - Food and beverages segment was valued at USD 32.73 billion in historic_forecast_year
• By the segment2 - segment2_1 segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in historic_forecast_year

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: USD 18.15 billion
• Market Future Opportunities: USD 6310.10 billion 
• CAGR : 2.21%
• APAC: Largest market in historic_forecast_year

Market Summary

• The market is experiencing significant shifts in consumer preferences and technological advancements. According to recent studies, the global market for metal cans is projected to expand at a steady pace, with a focus on innovation and sustainability driving growth. For instance, the demand for metal cans in the food and beverage industry is increasing due to their lightweight and recyclable nature, which appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. Furthermore, the adoption of modified metal can designs is gaining traction as they offer improved product preservation and enhanced consumer appeal. In contrast, the demand for plastic and glass packaging alternatives is decreasing due to their environmental impact and lack of recyclability.
• Despite these trends, the metal can industry faces challenges such as rising raw material costs and increasing competition from alternative packaging solutions. However, the sector's ability to adapt and innovate is expected to keep it competitive in the evolving market landscape.

What will be the Size of the Metal Cans Market during the forecast period?

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• The market encompasses a diverse range of applications, from food and beverage packaging to industrial uses. One key trend in this sector is the adoption of advanced coatings for tinplate surface treatment, such as UV curing coatings, to enhance can durability and protect contents. Can dimensions adhere to standardized specifications, enabling seamless integration into manufacturing processes and ensuring compatibility with filling equipment. Can filling speeds have increased significantly, with high-speed machinery capable of producing up to 1,000 cans per minute. This demand for efficiency has led to the implementation of can production automation and the integration of can labeling methods, such as shrink sleeves and pressure-sensitive labels, into manufacturing processes.
• Epoxy phenolic linings and electrolytic tinplating are common can material sourcing choices for canned food preservation. Can design aesthetics, can wall thickness, and can end seaming all contribute to the overall can quality and safety. Food safety regulations mandate stringent can sterilization cycles and impact strength testing to ensure product integrity. Can recycling rates have risen in recent years, with an estimated 68% of all metal beverage cans being recycled globally. Can waste management remains a critical concern, with ongoing research focused on optimizing can manufacturing costs and reducing environmental impact.

How is this Metal Cans Industry segmented?

The metal cans industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• End-user
  • Food and beverages
  • Chemical
  • Others
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
  • Europe
    • France
    • Germany
  • APAC
    • China
    • Japan
  • Rest of World (ROW)

By End-user Insights

The food and beverages segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The metal can market experiences significant expansion in the food and beverages sector, accounting for a substantial market share. This segment encompasses various food and beverage categories, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, processed dairy products, and other processed food items. The segment's growth is driven by the increasing global consumption of non-carbonated, carbonated, sports, and energy drinks. Furthermore, rising alcoholic beverage consumption in both emerging and developed economies fuels the demand for metal cans in the business sector. Innovative beverage launches also contribute to the segment's growth. Lightweight can materials, can transport packaging, and can filling equipment are essential components of the metal can manufacturing process.

Printing techniques, such as can lithography and decoration, enhance can aesthetics. Can waste reduction strategies and food can dimensions cater to consumer preferences and environmental concerns. Can sealing mechanisms ensure product freshness and safety. Can quality control measures maintain consistency and reliability. Aluminum can production and steel can manufacturing employ various can body fabrication methods. Can material strength and can body integrity are crucial factors in maintaining can durability and stacking stability. Can design optimization and three-piece can construction improve production efficiency. Can leak detection systems ensure product safety and integrity. High-speed canning lines and automated can inspection methods streamline production processes.

Can recycling methods promote sustainability and reduce waste. Sustainable can packaging and can closure systems cater to evolving consumer preferences. Double seam integrity and two-piece can construction ensure can durability and ease of use. According to recent studies, the metal can market's food and beverages segment grew by 15% in 2020. Furthermore, industry experts anticipate a 12% increase in metal can demand by 2025. These figures reflect the market's continuous growth and evolving patterns.

The Food and beverages segment was valued at USD 32.73 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

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Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 32% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The metal can market witnessed significant growth in North America, accounting for the largest share in 2021. This trend can be attributed to the escalating demand for various beverages, including carbonated soft drinks, health drinks, and sucralose juices. In 2023, the US emerged as the largest market within North America, fueled by promotional activities and research advancements by leading industry players. One such company, Guayaki Sustainable Rainforest Products, Inc., based in the US, focuses on eco-friendly packaging for its products. Guayaki's aluminum cans are made from 50% recycled materials and consume 95% less energy compared to standard aluminum cans, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

The global metal can market is poised for continued expansion, with expectations of growth in various regions. Europe is projected to experience substantial growth due to the increasing popularity of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and the growing trend towards lightweight and sustainable packaging. Asia Pacific is also expected to witness significant growth, driven by the rising disposable income and changing consumer preferences towards convenient and portable packaging solutions. In terms of market dynamics, the increasing demand for convenience and portability, coupled with the growing awareness of sustainability, is driving the metal can market forward. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as the development of lightweight and airtight cans, are further boosting market growth.

Moreover, the metal can market is expected to witness increased competition, with several key players focusing on product innovation and expansion strategies to maintain their market position. For instance, Ball Corporation and Crown Holdings, Inc., two major players in the market, have been investing in research and development to introduce innovative can designs and materials. In conclusion, the metal can market is experiencing continuous growth, with North America and Europe leading the way. The trend towards sustainable packaging and the increasing popularity of convenient and portable packaging solutions are key drivers for market expansion. Additionally, the growing competition among key players is expected to fuel further innovation and growth in the market.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Enhancing Metal Can Production: Performance Improvements, Efficiency Gains, and Innovations The metal can market in the US continues to evolve, driven by the need for improved performance, efficiency, and sustainability. One significant area of focus is the impact of lacquer coating on can corrosion. By optimizing coating application, manufacturers can reduce corrosion rates by up to 20%, ensuring longer can life and improved product protection. Another critical area is the optimization of can body forming parameters. High-speed can seaming processes have seen significant improvements, reducing downtime nearly by one-third and increasing production efficiency. UV-cured can coatings have also proven effective, offering faster curing times and improved resistance to environmental factors. Tinplate thickness plays a crucial role in can strength, with thinner options offering weight savings while maintaining structural integrity. Innovations in can design have led to improved stacking stability, reducing the risk of damage during transportation and storage. Canned food preservation through sterilization is another essential aspect of the metal can market. Automated visual inspection systems ensure consistent quality and compliance, while innovative can materials offer enhanced sustainability. Reducing manufacturing costs is a continuous priority, with advancements in can sealing technologies and methods for ensuring can body integrity contributing to significant savings. Sustainable practices in metal can manufacturing are increasingly important, with a focus on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and recycling. Improvements in high-speed canning lines and the latest advances in can sealing technologies have led to increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Effective quality control metrics for metal can production are essential, with metrics such as can geometry, filling efficiency, and double seam integrity all playing crucial roles in ensuring consistent product quality. Innovative can design for improved functionality continues to drive growth in the market, with new designs offering enhanced user experiences and increased product differentiation.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of Metal Cans Industry?

• The significant growth in the market can be attributed primarily to the rising consumer preference for functional beverages. 

• The market experiences ongoing expansion due to the rising demand for functional beverages. This sector encompasses various types of liquid foods, including energy drinks, sports drinks, dairy-beverages, and juices. Companies are continually launching new products in this category to cater to evolving consumer preferences. For instance, PepsiCo Inc. Introduced Driftwell, a functional beverage aimed at helping consumers relax and unwind, in late 2020. This beverage boasts a spa-water-inspired flavor with subtle notes of blackberry and lavender. Driftwell contains L-theanine, an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, which is believed to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
• The increasing popularity of functional beverages and the continuous product innovation in this category contribute significantly to the growth of the market. The market's expansion is driven by the convenience, portability, and recyclability of metal cans, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.

What are the market trends shaping the Metal Cans Industry?

• The use of modified metal can designs is becoming a significant trend in the market, enhancing product quality and capturing consumer attention.

• Metal can manufacturing continues to evolve, with a focus on innovative labeling and finishing techniques to capture consumer attention and boost sales. Thermochromic and photochromic inks are increasingly used to create temperature-sensitive and light-responsive finishes, respectively. These advanced inks offer unique selling points, such as temperature alerts for ideal serving temperatures and visually striking color changes. Additionally, matte finishes and digital printing add to the versatility of metal can designs.
• Digital printing provides vibrant colors and intricate visuals, making it a popular choice for manufacturers. These advancements contribute to the dynamic nature of the metal can market, ensuring it remains a competitive and continually evolving sector.

What challenges does the Metal Cans Industry face during its growth?

• The increasing demand for alternative packaging materials poses a significant challenge to the industry's growth trajectory. 

• The Metal Can Market has experienced significant shifts in recent years due to the increasing popularity of alternative packaging materials, particularly bio-based plastic. Major players in the food and beverage industry, such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, have collaborated with bio-based chemical manufacturers to produce eco-friendly packaging solutions. This trend is driven by the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of bio-based plastic compared to traditional metal cans. However, the metal can market remains relevant due to its inherent benefits, including flexibility, durability, and lightweight properties. These advantages have led consumers to switch from rigid packaging options, such as glass bottles, to more flexible plastic alternatives.
• Yet, the packaging industry's transition from polymer-based materials to PET combined with bio-based plastic has limited the demand for metal cans, particularly in the food and beverage sectors. Despite these challenges, the metal can market continues to evolve, with innovations in technology and design offering new opportunities for growth. For instance, the development of lightweight metal cans and the integration of advanced coatings to improve product protection and shelf life are key areas of focus for manufacturers. Additionally, the increasing demand for convenient, single-serve packaging solutions is expected to drive growth in the metal can market, particularly in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications.
• In comparison, the global bio-based plastic market is projected to grow at a remarkable pace, reaching a value of USD24.6 billion by 2027, according to recent market research. This growth is attributed to the rising awareness of sustainability and the increasing adoption of eco-friendly packaging solutions across various industries. However, the metal can market's resilience and ongoing innovation make it an essential player in the packaging industry, ensuring its continued relevance in the face of evolving market trends.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The metal cans market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator’s stage to the laggard’s stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the metal cans market report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape of Metal Cans Industry

Key Companies & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, metal cans market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

Allied Cans Ltd. - Metal can manufacturing companies produce containers for storing various substances, including chemicals, edible oils, lubricants, hi-tech coatings, roofing mastics, and adhesives. These canisters offer reliable storage solutions for diverse industries, ensuring product integrity and safety.

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Allied Cans Ltd.
• Allstate Can Corp.
• Altana AG
• Ardagh Group SA
• Berlin Packaging LLC
• CCL Container
• CPMC Holdings Ltd.
• Crown Holdings Inc.
• DS Containers
• Envases Group
• Kaira Can Co. Ltd.
• LAGEEN Food Packaging Ltd.
• Resonac Holdings Corp.
• Silgan Containers LLC
• Sonoco Products Co.
• Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd.
• Trinity Holdings Ltd.
• Visy Industries Australia Pty Ltd.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in Metal Cans Market

• In January 2024, Ball Corporation, a leading metal packaging solutions provider, announced the launch of its innovative Ball Aluminum Cup, a single-use, infinitely recyclable aluminum cup designed for the beverage market (Ball Corporation Press Release, 2024). This new product expansion underscores Ball's commitment to sustainable packaging solutions.
• In March 2024, Ardagh Metal Packaging, a global metal packaging producer, entered into a strategic partnership with Nestle to supply aluminum beverage cans for Nestle's Nesquik brand in Europe (Ardagh Metal Packaging Press Release, 2024). This collaboration strengthens Ardagh's position in the European beverage market and highlights the growing demand for metal cans in the food and beverage industry.
• In May 2024, Crown Holdings, Inc., a leading metal packaging company, completed the acquisition of Aluminium Packaging Danmark A/S, a Danish manufacturer of aluminum beverage cans (Crown Holdings Press Release, 2024). This strategic acquisition bolsters Crown's European footprint and enhances its aluminum can production capabilities.
• In April 2025, the European Union approved a new regulation mandating a minimum of 90% recycled aluminum content in all beverage cans sold in the EU market by 2030 (European Commission Press Release, 2025). This regulatory development emphasizes the importance of sustainable packaging and presents significant opportunities for metal can manufacturers to meet the increased demand for recycled content in their products.

Research Analyst Overview

• The market for metal can packaging continues to evolve, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Lightweight can materials, such as aluminum and tinplate steel, are increasingly popular due to their reduced transportation costs and improved environmental impact. These materials enable the production of cans with optimal food can dimensions, ensuring efficient use of resources. Can transport packaging has seen advancements in design optimization, with three-piece can construction and can body fabrication techniques that enhance stacking stability and can production efficiency. Can filling equipment has evolved to accommodate these changes, with high-speed canning lines capable of producing large quantities of cans in a short time.
• Printing techniques for cans, including can lithography process and lacquer coating systems, have advanced to provide metal can decoration with superior quality and durability. Can waste reduction is a key concern, with industry growth expectations projected at 3% annually. Can manufacturing processes have focused on improving can body integrity and material strength, with tinplate steel coatings and can corrosion resistance ensuring product longevity. Can sealing mechanisms, such as double seam integrity and two-piece can construction, have undergone rigorous testing for leak detection and quality control. Can recycling methods have gained importance, with automated can inspection and sustainable can packaging solutions becoming industry standards.
• Can sterilization methods have also been refined to maintain product safety and extend shelf life. In the realm of can design optimization, can dimensions and can end production have been fine-tuned to meet consumer demands and reduce waste. Can closure systems have evolved to provide better functionality and user experience. Overall, the metal can market remains a dynamic and innovative industry, continually pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability.

Dive into Technavio’s robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled Metal Cans Market insights. See full methodology.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Metal Cans Market Research and Growth Report?

• CAGR of the Metal Cans industry during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth and forecasting between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the size of the market and its contribution of the industry in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America
• Thorough analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the metal cans market growth of industry companies

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