North America Packaging Films Market Outlook, 2030

The North American packaging films market is witnessing significant consolidation, as companies strive to enhance their market positions and operational efficiencies. A notable trend is the rising preference for biodegradable and compostable films. Environmental concerns and stringent regulations have propelled manufacturers to develop eco-friendly alternatives, leading to a surge in the adoption of biodegradable films in sectors like food packaging and consumer goods. In November 2024, Amcor, a prominent packaging corporation, announced its acquisition of Berry Global Group in a deal valued at USD 8.4 billion. This merger positions Amcor as the largest plastic packaging company globally, expanding its market reach and capabilities. Additionally, the integration of smart technologies into packaging films is revolutionizing the industry. Features such as RFID tags, sensors, and QR codes embedded in films enhance real-time tracking, inventory management, and consumer engagement, creating new opportunities in various sectors. The regulatory environment in North America is becoming increasingly stringent, focusing on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability. Several states have enacted bans on specific plastic materials; for instance, as of February 2025, eleven U.S. states and two territories have implemented statewide bans on polystyrene foam. Maryland led the initiative with a ban effective from October 2020, followed by states like Maine, Vermont, New York, and New Jersey implementing similar prohibitions in subsequent years. In addition to state-level actions, federal agencies are intensifying their efforts. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched formal reviews of several toxic plastic chemicals, including vinyl chloride, known for its carcinogenic properties and environmental hazards. This initiative, commenced in January 2025, aims to reassess the safety and environmental impact of these substances, potentially leading to stricter regulations and usage limitations.

According to the research report ""North America Packaging Films Market Outlook, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the North America Packaging Films market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 43.85 Billion by 2030. In a strategic shift, Orora, an Australian packaging company, agreed in September 2024 to sell its North American packaging solutions business to U.S.-based Veritiv for $1.68 billion. This move allows Orora to concentrate on premium beverage packaging, reflecting a broader industry trend toward specialization and portfolio optimization. Environmental sustainability remains a pivotal factor influencing market dynamics. Amazon, for instance, eliminated plastic air pillows from its global fulfillment centers as of October 2024, transitioning to more eco-friendly packaging alternatives. This decision underscores the growing consumer and regulatory pressure to reduce plastic waste. Innovations in biodegradable and compostable films are also gaining momentum. Companies are investing in research and development to create eco-friendly packaging solutions that meet both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the dynamic regulatory environment requires companies to remain agile, adapting to new laws and standards that vary across jurisdictions. The emphasis on extended producer responsibility (EPR) is likely to increase, compelling manufacturers to take greater accountability for the end-of-life impact of their products. Similarly, Orora, an Australian packaging company, has divested its North American paper packaging operations, selling them to U.S.-based Veritiv for USD 1.68 billion. This strategic move allows Orora to focus on its premium beverage packaging segment, aligning with its long-term growth objectives. Moreover, legislative measures targeting packaging waste are gaining momentum. New Jersey, for example, has proposed legislation mandating that all packaging materials be recyclable or compostable by 2034.

Market Drivers

• Growing Demand for Sustainable Packaging: Consumers and regulatory bodies are increasingly prioritizing environmental sustainability, leading to a heightened demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. This shift is prompting manufacturers to develop packaging films that are recyclable, biodegradable, or derived from renewable resources. Innovations in sustainable materials, such as plant-based plastics and compostable films, are becoming more prevalent as companies strive to reduce their environmental footprint.
• Expansion of the E-commerce Sector: The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly increased the need for efficient and protective packaging solutions. Packaging films offer lightweight and durable options that ensure product safety during transit. The versatility of packaging films makes them ideal for a wide range of products, from electronics to perishables, catering to the diverse needs of online retailers and consumers.

Market Challenges

• Environmental Concerns and Regulatory Pressures: The extensive use of plastic films has raised environmental concerns, particularly regarding waste management and pollution. Regulatory bodies in North America are implementing stricter regulations to address these issues, compelling manufacturers to adapt by investing in sustainable practices and materials. This transition can be complex and costly, especially for companies heavily reliant on traditional plastic materials.
• Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices: Packaging films are primarily produced from petrochemical derivatives, making their manufacturing costs susceptible to fluctuations in oil prices. Volatility in raw material costs can impact production expenses and profit margins, posing challenges for manufacturers in maintaining stable pricing and financial planning.

Market Trends

• Technological Advancements in Packaging Films: The industry is witnessing significant technological innovations aimed at enhancing the functionality and sustainability of packaging films. Developments include the creation of high-performance barrier films that extend product shelf life and the integration of smart packaging technologies, such as sensors that monitor product conditions. These advancements not only improve product protection but also offer opportunities for brands to engage consumers with interactive and informative packaging.
• Corporate Initiatives to Reduce Plastic Waste: Leading companies are proactively addressing plastic waste through various initiatives. For instance, Amazon announced the elimination of plastic air pillows from its global fulfillment centers, aiming to reduce plastic film pollution significantly. Such corporate actions reflect a broader industry trend toward sustainability and environmental responsibility, influencing packaging practices across the market.

Polyethylene (PE) dominates the North American packaging films industry due to its exceptional versatility, cost-effectiveness, and superior barrier properties, making it ideal for a wide range of applications across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors.

Polyethylene (PE) is the leading material in the North American packaging films industry because it offers a unique combination of properties that cater to the diverse needs of various end-use industries. One of the most significant factors contributing to its dominance is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to other polymers, PE is relatively inexpensive to produce, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking to balance performance and affordability. The material's ease of processing and compatibility with different manufacturing techniques, such as extrusion and blown film production, further solidify its position in the market. PE films can be tailored to various thickness levels, allowing manufacturers to create both lightweight and heavy-duty packaging solutions. This flexibility enables applications ranging from shrink wraps and stretch films to heavy-duty bags and pouches. Additionally, PE films exhibit high impact resistance, preventing punctures and tears that could compromise the integrity of packaged products. This property is particularly important in the food and beverage sector, where maintaining product freshness and preventing contamination are top priorities. While standard PE films provide moderate moisture resistance, advancements in polymer technology have led to the development of multi-layered and co-extruded PE films with enhanced oxygen, moisture, and light barrier properties. This makes them ideal for packaging perishable goods such as dairy products, meats, and frozen foods. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) are widely used for flexible packaging applications due to their excellent clarity, sealability, and stretchability. On the other hand, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is favored for its stiffness, toughness, and chemical resistance, making it suitable for rigid packaging solutions like milk jugs and detergent bottles.

The growth of shrink films in the North American packaging films industry is driven by their superior product protection, tamper-evidence, and cost-effective secondary packaging solutions.

Shrink films are experiencing significant growth in the North American packaging films industry due to their ability to provide secure, lightweight, and visually appealing packaging solutions. Shrink films tightly conform to the shape of products when heat is applied, creating a durable and tamper-resistant seal. This ensures that the packaged goods remain intact during transportation and storage, reducing the risks of damage, contamination, and pilferage. With the increasing focus on product safety and integrity, industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods are rapidly adopting shrink films as a reliable packaging solution. Shrink films are widely used for bundling multiple products together, such as multi-pack beverage cans and bottles, making them an efficient alternative to rigid packaging solutions. These films also provide excellent clarity and printability, allowing manufacturers to create visually appealing packaging that enhances brand visibility on retail shelves. Moreover, shrink films can be customized with printed labels and graphics, eliminating the need for additional packaging materials like paperboard cartons. This not only reduces packaging waste but also makes shrink films a cost-effective option for brands looking to optimize their packaging expenses. Sustainability is also playing a pivotal role in the increasing popularity of shrink films. Many manufacturers are now producing recyclable and biodegradable shrink films to align with environmental regulations and consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging. Advanced formulations such as polyolefin-based shrink films offer better recyclability compared to traditional PVC-based films, making them a more sustainable option.

The growth of food & beverage applications in the North American packaging films industry is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, extended shelf life, and sustainable packaging solutions.

The food & beverage sector is one of the fastest-growing application segments in the North American packaging films industry, fueled by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts. The rising demand for convenient, on-the-go food options has significantly influenced the packaging landscape, pushing manufacturers to develop innovative film solutions that cater to modern consumption habits. Consumers today prioritize freshness, ease of use, and sustainability, leading to increased adoption of flexible packaging films, which offer superior performance compared to traditional rigid packaging. Moreover, branding and marketing considerations are playing a pivotal role in shaping packaging film trends. Food and beverage manufacturers are leveraging high-quality printed films with vibrant graphics, transparency, and matte or glossy finishes to enhance shelf appeal and attract consumers. Advanced printing technologies such as digital and flexographic printing enable brands to create visually engaging packaging that communicates product information, nutritional content, and sustainability credentials effectively. With e-commerce becoming a dominant force in the food & beverage industry, packaging films must meet stringent requirements for durability, tamper resistance, and leak-proof sealing. Multi-layered flexible films are widely used for frozen foods, snacks, and beverages, ensuring that products remain intact and fresh throughout transportation. In addition, resealable packaging films have become increasingly popular, allowing consumers to store and consume products conveniently while maintaining freshness.

Wraps & pouches are leading in the North American packaging films industry due to their superior convenience, lightweight nature, extended shelf life capabilities, and sustainability benefits.

The dominance of wraps and pouches in the North American packaging films industry is primarily driven by their exceptional versatility, efficiency, and ability to meet the evolving demands of both consumers and businesses. As consumer lifestyles become increasingly fast-paced, the demand for packaging that offers convenience, portability, and extended freshness has surged, positioning flexible wraps and pouches as the go-to solution across multiple industries. These packaging formats are widely used in food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and household goods, as they provide superior product protection while being cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Unlike rigid packaging formats such as glass bottles, metal cans, and plastic containers, flexible pouches and wraps require significantly less material while offering the same level of protection. This not only reduces raw material and production costs for manufacturers but also lowers transportation and storage expenses, as they occupy less space and contribute to reduced shipping weights. With logistics and fuel costs on the rise, businesses are increasingly opting for flexible packaging solutions to optimize their supply chain operations and minimize overall costs. Multi-layered packaging films, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), offer excellent barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and light, which help maintain the freshness and quality of perishable goods. This is particularly important in the food and beverage industry, where preserving flavor, texture, and nutritional value is essential for consumer satisfaction. As North American consumers and regulatory bodies push for environmentally friendly packaging solutions, many manufacturers are transitioning to recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable pouches. Advances in mono-material packaging, which simplifies recycling processes, as well as bio-based films derived from renewable resources like sugarcane and cornstarch, are gaining traction.

The USA leads the North American packaging films industry due to its advanced manufacturing capabilities, high consumer demand for packaged goods, strong presence of key industry players, and continuous innovation in sustainable and high-performance packaging solutions.

The dominance of the USA in the North American packaging films industry is primarily driven by its well-established industrial base, technological advancements, and strong consumer market. The country has a highly developed manufacturing infrastructure that enables the large-scale production of packaging films with high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With state-of-the-art production facilities, automation, and advanced material science, the USA remains at the forefront of innovation in flexible packaging solutions, catering to the diverse needs of various industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and industrial goods. The country has one of the highest consumption rates of packaged food and beverages, as well as a rapidly growing e-commerce sector that relies heavily on durable and lightweight packaging films. The increasing demand for convenience foods, ready-to-eat meals, and frozen products has accelerated the adoption of flexible packaging films, particularly polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-based films. Additionally, changing consumer lifestyles, urbanization, and an increase in single-person households have further contributed to the growth of the flexible packaging industry, as more people prefer easy-to-use, resealable, and portion-controlled packaging formats. The USA is also home to some of the largest global packaging film manufacturers, including Berry Global, Sealed Air Corporation, Amcor, Bemis Company (acquired by Amcor), and Printpack. These companies invest heavily in research and development (R&D) to introduce innovative packaging solutions that offer enhanced barrier properties, improved recyclability, and extended shelf life.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Packaging Films Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Material Type
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Others (EVOH, PA, Biodegradable Films, etc.)

By Film Type
• Barrier Films
• Shrink Films
• Stretch Films
• Metallized Films
• Conductive Films

By Application
• Food & Beverage
• Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
• Personal Care & Cosmetics
• Industrial Packaging
• Others (Electronics, Household Products, Agriculture, etc.)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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