Global Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)

Global Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)

Global demand for intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) is projected to increase 4.2% per year to $11.0 billion in 2026, a faster rate than for bulk packaging as a whole during this period. As the world's manufacturing economies continue to develop, more users will opt for IBCs, which present larger upfront costs but offer functional advantages and long term cost savings that justify the larger initial expenditures.

RIBCs Will Lead Growth, but FIBCs Will Also Offer Substantial Opportunities

Rigid IBCs can be used for both liquids and dry flowable products. This versatility, among other performance advantages, will continue to contribute to their larger absolute gains through 2026. However, flexible IBCs' lower cost will allow them to remain competitive in applications for which they are suitable, which include flowable powders (such as bulk food and pharmaceutical ingredients) as well as mined materials and other mineral products.

Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Drive Advances, While Smaller Outlets Support Growth

Chemicals and pharmaceuticals will remain the largest applications for RIBCs and FIBCs, accounting for nearly 60% of IBC demand in 2026. These applications frequently rely on reusable containers like IBCs for use in closed-loop systems, which reduces both costs and the threat of cross-contamination by the previous container's contents. However, some smaller applications - like FIBCs used to ship plastic pellets and RIBCs used for bulk agricultural products - will register stronger growth.

Both IBC Types to Benefit From Sustainability Efforts

Both FIBCs and RIBCs can be reused, which makes them attractive to users attempting to improve their sustainability postures through reduced reliance on single-use packaging. In closed systems, IBCs can be used repeatedly; increased investment in reconditioning programs can reduce overall packaging expenditures. In addition, their shape and stackability allow for more efficient use of space during transport, reducing both shipping and energy costs.

Study Description

This Freedonia industry study analyzes the $9 billion global IBC industry. It presents historical demand data (2011, 2016 and 2021) and forecasts (2026 and 2031) by type (rigid, flexible), and market (chemicals and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, agricultural products, plastic/rubber/fiber products, durable goods, other). The study also evaluates discusses leading suppliers including Armando Alvarez, AUER, Brambles, Greif, Mauser Packaging Solutions, and SCHÜTZ.