Retort Packaging Market Analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, Middle East and Africa - US, China, Germany, France, UK - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

Retort Packaging Market Size 2024-2028

The retort packaging market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.94 billion at a CAGR of 8.06% between 2023 and 2028.

• The market is witnessing significant growth due to the expansion of e-commerce and increasing consumer preference for convenient and food packaging. Aluminum foil and pouches are popular choices In the meat, seafood, and baby food sectors, while plastic and polyethylene terephthalate are widely used in snacks, sauces, and soups. Hermetic seal protection is a challenge in retort pouches, leading companies to explore alternatives such as biopolymers and hydrogen peroxide sterilization. Sustainability is a key trend, with companies focusing on digital solutions and e-commerce platforms to reduce carbon footprint. Flexible packaging, including stand-up pouches made of polyamide and polypropylene, is gaining popularity in the health and wellness, personal care, and medical devices industries.

What will be the Size of the Retort Packaging Market During the Forecast Period?

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• The market encompasses ready meals contained in retort cans, pouches, glass jars, and other forms of packaging suitable for high-temperature processing. This market caters to various food categories, including read-to-eat meals, meat, poultry, and seafood, cookies, and ready meals. Driven by changing lifestyles and increased urbanization, there is a growing demand for convenient, on-the-go food solutions. Retort packaging, with its lightweight, portable, and durable nature, has gained significant traction. Retort pouches and trays, made from materials such as polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and aluminum foil, are increasingly popular due to their versatility and ability to maintain product quality and freshness.
• The Flexible Packaging Association reports that paper boards and raw paper materials are also gaining ground In the market due to their sustainability benefits. Overall, the market is expected to grow steadily, driven by the convenience and portability of these packaging solutions, as well as the increasing popularity of ready meals and on-the-go consumption.

How is this Retort Packaging Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The retort packaging 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
  • Beverages
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Others
• Type
  • Pouches
  • Trays
  • Cartons
  • Others
• Geography
  • APAC
    • China
  • North America
    • US
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
    • France
  • South America
  • Middle East and Africa

By End-user Insights

The food segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market is experiencing notable growth due to the increasing consumption of ready meals, particularly in sectors such as meat, poultry & seafood, baby food, soups, sauces, and ready-to-eat meals. Retort packaging solutions, including pouches, trays, cans, glass jars, and stand-up pouches, ensure food safety and convenience for consumers. The market is driven by changing lifestyles, increased urbanization, and the growing popularity of on-the-go consumption. Key materials used in retort packaging include paper boards, raw paper materials, plastic resins, and flexible packaging solutions. Sustainable options, such as mono-material flexible packaging and organic tin compounds, are gaining traction due to consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

The beverage sector also contributes to the market growth, with heat-resistant laminated plastic and high-performance retorts used for packaging hot beverages. The market is expected to continue expanding due to rising consumer spending, the convenience of stand-up retort pouches, and the portability of lightweight packaging materials like polypropylene, polyamide, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

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The Food segment was valued at USD 1.94 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 41% 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 market in Asia Pacific (APAC) is experiencing significant growth, driven by expanding industries such as e-commerce, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and personal care. Countries like China, India, and Japan are anticipated to be major contributors to the market's revenue growth. The retail and e-commerce sectors in APAC are thriving due to increasing consumer preference for convenience and the popularity of online retailers, including Alibaba Group Holdings Ltd. End-user industries, such as ready meals, meat, poultry & seafood, pet food, baby food, soups & sauces, and ready-to-eat meals, are major consumers of retort packaging. Retort cans, pouches, glass jars, and trays are popular packaging solutions.

Materials used include food fillers, cookies, paper boards, raw paper materials, plastic resins, and flexible packaging solutions. Consumers' changing lifestyles and increased urbanization have led to the demand for lightweight, portable, and easy-to-handle packaging. Heat-resistant laminated plastic, stand-up retort pouches, and high-performance retorts are gaining popularity. The market is also witnessing a trend towards sustainable flexible packaging, such as mono-material flexible packaging and organic tin compounds. The beverage sector is another significant market for retort packaging. Consumer spending on health and wellness, convenience, and on-the-go consumption is driving demand for packaged foods and beverages. Stand-up pouches, snack food, and dry food packaging are popular choices.

The market is also witnessing innovation in closure types, such as tear notches and zippers, for easier opening and resealing. In conclusion, the market in APAC is expected to continue its growth trajectory due to the expanding e-commerce industry, changing consumer preferences, and the increasing popularity of packaged foods and beverages. The market is witnessing innovation in materials, packaging solutions, and closure types to meet consumer demands for convenience, sustainability, and portability.

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.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise In the adoption of Retort Packaging Industry?

• Expansion of e-commerce industry is the key driver of the market.The global market for retort packaging has experienced notable growth due to the increasing trend of ready meals and changing lifestyles. Retort packaging, including retort cans, pouches, and glass jars, is widely used for various food products such as meat, poultry & seafood, pet food, baby food, soups & sauces, ready-to-eat meals, and snack food. The convenience of on-the-go consumption and ease of handling have made these packaging solutions increasingly popular. The market dynamics are influenced by factors such as increased urbanization, waste reduction, and the emergence of online brands. The e-commerce experience has become a significant driver for the market, with consumers seeking lightweight, portable, and high-performance packaging solutions for various food and beverage products.
• Materials used in retort packaging include paper boards, raw paper materials, plastic resins, and flexible packaging solutions. High-performance retort pouches, such as stand-up pouches, are gaining popularity due to their ability to maintain product integrity during transportation and storage at various temperatures. Growing focus on health and wellness and consumer spending on packaged foods have further fueled the growth of the market. Sustainable flexible packaging solutions, such as mono-material flexible packaging and multilayer flexible packaging, are also gaining traction due to their environmental benefits. The market caters to various industries, including the beverage sector, and offers a wide range of packaging types, such as flat pouches, closure types, and tear notches, including zippers.
• The use of materials like polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and aluminum foil ensures product safety and extends the shelf life of food and beverage products.

What are the market trends shaping the Retort Packaging market?

• Increasing vendor initiatives to promote sustainable packaging is the upcoming market trend.The market is witnessing significant growth due to changing lifestyles and increased urbanization leading to on-the-go consumption. Retort packaging solutions, including retort cans, pouches, and glass jars, are increasingly popular for ready meals, meat, poultry & seafood, pet food, baby food, soups & sauces, and ready-to-eat meals. companies are focusing on sustainable packaging alternatives, such as stand-up retort pouches made from mono-material flexible packaging, to reduce waste and cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions. Biopolymer-based plastics, derived from renewable raw materials like corn, wheat, and sugarcane, are emerging as sustainable alternatives In the market. The use of these materials is expected to increase due to their availability and the environmental benefits they offer.
• Food and beverage industries are leading the adoption of these sustainable packaging solutions to cater to consumer preferences for health and wellness and convenience. The market is also witnessing innovation in packaging materials, such as heat-resistant laminated plastic and high-performance retorts, to enhance product preservation and extend storage temperature. Online brands and e-commerce experiences are driving the demand for lightweight, portable, and easy-to-handle packaging solutions, such as flat pouches and tear notch or zipper closures. Key players In the market include Huhtamaki, ProAmpac, and Mondi, among others, who are investing in sustainable flexible packaging solutions to cater to the evolving market trends.

What challenges does the Retort Packaging Industry face during its growth?

• Hermetic seal protection-related challenges in retort pouches is a key challenge affecting the industry growth.Retort packaging plays a vital role in preserving the integrity of various food products, including ready meals, soups & sauces, meat, poultry & seafood, pet food, baby food, and snack food. Retort cans and glass jars have long been used for this purpose, but the market has seen a shift towards more lightweight and portable options like pouches and trays. The convenience of on-the-go consumption and changing lifestyles, coupled with increased urbanization, have fueled the demand for these solutions. Pouches and trays offer ease of handling and heat-resistant laminated plastic, making them suitable for a wide range of food and beverage products.
• However, creating and maintaining the hermetic seal In these pouches during processing is crucial. Improper pouch filling or mishandling can negatively impact the seal, leading to product spoilage or damage. Materials used in retort packaging include raw paper materials, plastic resins, and aluminum foil. High-performance retorts and sustainable flexible packaging solutions, such as mono-material flexible packaging and organic tin compounds, are increasingly popular. Stand-up retort pouches, tear notches, zippers, and flat pouches with various closure types are common designs. The market dynamics are influenced by factors like consumer spending, health and wellness trends, and the beverage sector. Companies like Huhtamaki, ProAmpac, and Mondi are key players In the industry, offering innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the market.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The retort packaging 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 retort packaging 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

Key Companies & Market Insights

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

Amcor Plc - The company specializes in providing retort packaging options, including flexible retort pouches, for various industries such as ready-meals and pet food. These solutions ensure product preservation through high-temperature processing, maintaining food safety and extending shelf life. The use of retort pouches offers advantages like lightweight design, easy handling, and reduced waste compared to traditional cans. Additionally, the pouches can be customized with various sizes, shapes, and printing options to cater to specific branding needs.

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

• Amcor Plc
• Berry Global Inc.
• Clifton Packaging Group Ltd.
• Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
• Coveris Management GmbH
• FLAIR Flexible Packaging Corp.
• Floeter India Retort Pouches Pvt. Ltd.
• Fres-co System USA Inc.
• Icone International Ltd.
• IMPAK Corp.
• Logos Packaging
• Mondi Plc
• Nittopack Co. Ltd.
• Otsuka Holdings Co. Ltd.
• POLYNOVA Industries Inc.
• Sealed Air Corp.
• Sonoco Products Co.
• Tetra Laval SA
• Tredegar Corp.
• Wihuri International Oy

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.

Research Analyst Overview

The market encompasses a range of solutions designed for preserving various food and beverage products through heat processing. This market caters to an extensive array of industries, including ready meals, meat, poultry & seafood, pet food, baby food, soups & sauces, and snack food, among others. The market dynamics are influenced by several factors, with changing lifestyles and increased urbanization being significant drivers. The demand for retort packaging is on the rise due to the convenience it offers, particularly In the context of on-the-go consumption. This trend is particularly prominent In the ready-to-eat meals segment, where consumers seek portable and lightweight packaging solutions that can maintaIn the product's quality and freshness.

Retort packaging comes in various forms, including retort cans, pouches, and glass jars. Each type offers unique advantages, such as ease of handling, heat resistance, and waste reduction. For instance, stand-up retort pouches are gaining popularity due to their portability and ease of use, while flat pouches and glass jars are preferred for their aesthetic appeal and ability to showcase the product's contents. The market for retort packaging is also influenced by the beverage sector, where the focus is on creating an exceptional e-commerce experience. Online brands are increasingly investing in high-performance retorts and sustainable flexible packaging solutions, such as mono-material flexible packaging, to meet the growing demand for convenient and eco-friendly packaging options.

The material used in retort packaging plays a crucial role in its performance and functionality. Common materials include polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum foil, and various types of paper and plastic resins. Each material offers unique benefits, such as heat resistance, light weight, and ease of recycling. The closure type is another essential consideration in retort packaging design. Tear notches, zippers, and other types of closures are used to ensure the product remains sealed during the heat processing and transportation stages, while also allowing for easy opening by the consumer. The health and wellness trend is also impacting the market, with consumers increasingly seeking organic and natural food products.

This has led to the development of tin compounds and multilayer flexible packaging solutions that can maintaIn the product's nutritional value and freshness. Consumer spending on packaged foods and beverages is a significant factor driving the growth of the market. As spending power increases, consumers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality and convenient packaging solutions that ensure the freshness and safety of their food products. In conclusion, the market is a dynamic and evolving industry that caters to various sectors and consumer preferences. Its growth is driven by factors such as changing lifestyles, increased urbanization, and the demand for convenient, portable, and eco-friendly packaging solutions. The market offers a range of materials, designs, and technologies to meet the diverse needs of consumers and industries, making it an exciting and innovative space to watch.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Retort Packaging Market Research and Growth Report?

• CAGR of the Retort Packaging 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 APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the retort packaging market growth of industry companies

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