Liquid Packaging Carton Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Brick Liquid Cartons, Gable Top Liquid Cartons, and Shaped Liquid Cartons), By Shelf Life (Short Term Shelf Life and Long Term Shelf Life), By Application (Dairy Products, Wine and Spirits, Juices and Drinks, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030

The global liquid packaging carton market size was valued at USD 25.38 billion in 2022 and is projected to be USD 26.66 billion in 2023 to USD 39.27 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.69% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the liquid packaging carton market with a market share of 38.21% in 2022. Moreover, the liquid packaging carton market in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of USD 10.14 billion by 2032, driven by the increasing shelf life for different liquid products.

Liquid packaging cartons are specifically designed for the packaging and distribution of products, such as milk, juices, nectars, fruit-flavored still drinks, soups, and other beverages. These cartons are typically made from multiple layers for strength and barrier properties. The material used for the production of these layers is often chosen for its ability to protect the products from external factors, such as air, contaminants, moisture, and light. Liquid cartons are known for providing excellent protection that preserves the freshness and flavor of liquid contents.

Consumers appreciate the convenience and portability of liquid cartons, making them suitable for on-the-go consumption. These cartons are usually made from renewable resources, such as paper and are often recyclable. Due to their recyclable nature, they are considered eco-friendly and sustainable packaging products, boosting their demand in the market.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Changes in Consumer Behaviour During the COVID-19 Pandemic Influenced the Market Growth Significantly

The COVID-19 outbreak had a multifaceted effect on the liquid packaging carton market growth globally. The pandemic led to significant changes in consumer behaviour, including shifts in purchasing patterns. During lockdowns, there was increased demand for these packaging cartons from people staying or working from home for regular household products such as milk, juices, and cooking ingredients, such as egg whites. Liquid cartons became a preferred choice for many e-commerce platforms due to their durability, protective qualities, and ease of shipping. However, the liquid packaging carton industry also suffered from a shortage of raw material components and packaging materials due to supply chain disruptions that affected production and delivery timelines for a short period. After the initial setback, the demand for these cartons remained robust, and companies in the industry adapted to meet changing market dynamics and consumer expectations.

Liquid Packaging Carton Market Trends

Adoption of PET Films Instead of an Aluminum Barrier is Set to Emerge as a Key Trend

The usage of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) films as an alternative to aluminum in liquid carton packaging offers several advantages, primarily related to sustainability and cost-effectiveness. PET is a recyclable plastic material, and its usage aligns with the manufacturer’s focus on reducing environmental impact and achieving sustainability goals. Due to low weight and more energy-efficient production, PET film usage reduces the carbon footprint compared to aluminum barriers. PET films are generally less expensive than aluminum, which can lead to cost savings in packaging production. PET films provide adequate protection against external factors when combined with additional coatings and laminates, making them suitable for preserving the quality and shelf life of liquid products. These factors are expected to contribute to the growth of the market over the coming years.

Liquid Packaging Carton Market Growth Factors

Sustainability of Liquid Packaging Cartons is Driving the Market Growth

The rapid rise in demand for sustainable packaging solutions and the increasing research and development activities in the packaging industry toward achieving these sustainability goals are driving the market growth. These packaging cartons are typically recyclable, contributing to a circular economy by reducing waste and conserving resources. The ease of recycling makes liquid cartons an attractive choice for environmentally conscious consumers. The demand for paper-based liquid packaging cartons that are made fully from recycled or renewable materials sourced responsibly is rising among consumers. Considering consumer opinion and demand, manufacturers are also responding by delivering liquid cartons that optimize sustainability at every stage of the life cycle. Such exclusive characteristics of liquid cartons boost the market growth.

Cost-effectiveness of Liquid Cartons than Alternative Packaging Formats to Boost Market Growth

The low cost of liquid packaging cartons, compared to other packaging formats, is a significant factor that drives the demand for these cartons. Compared to glass or plastic, paperboard is fairly cheap and is majorly used for the production of liquid cartons. They are light in weight compared to many other packaging formats, such as glass bottles or metal cans. This characteristic leads to lower transportation and shipping costs, as less fuel is required for the transportation. Unlike glass bottle containers, liquid cartons are less prone to breakage during transportation and handling. This minimizes the risk of product loss, reducing waste and the associated costs. Due to their lower cost of production, brands can position their liquid products at competitive prices in the market, which is propelling the growth of the liquid carton market.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Limited Product Compatibility Compared to Plastic Bottle Hampers Market Growth

Not all liquid products are suitable for packaging in cartons. Products that are highly acidic or have specific requirements related to shelf life and protection may not be well-suited for liquid carton packaging. Manufacturers need to assess product compatibility carefully. Liquid cartons are primarily designed for water-based liquids. They may not provide adequate protection against oil-based liquids, which can lead to issues such as reduced shelf life. Also, products with high alcohol content, such as alcoholic beverages, may not be ideal for liquid carton packaging. The alcohol can potentially degrade the paperboard and affect the structural integrity of the carton. These factors can restrain the market growth during the forecast period.

Liquid Packaging Carton Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type Analysis

Brick Liquid Cartons Segment Dominates the Market Due to their Substantial Advantages Provided

By type, the market is segmented into brick liquid cartons, gable top liquid cartons, and shaped liquid cartons.

The brick liquid cartons segment holds the largest market share and is expected to grow during the forecast period. The rectangular design of brick cartons optimizes space utilization during storage, transportation, and on store shelves. Their uniform shape allows for easy stacking and efficient shipping of these cartons. They offer ample space for branding, product information, and customization. Manufacturers can easily print logos, graphics, and product details on these cartons. Also, brick cartons are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate various liquid volumes. This variety makes them suitable for diverse market segments boosting their demand globally.

Gable top liquid cartons in comparison with brick liquid cartons provide a large surface area for customization and printing and are visually appealing. Due to such reasons gable top liquid cartons closely follow the lead of the brick liquid cartons segment.

By Shelf Life Analysis

Long Term Shelf Life Segment Leads as it is Suitable for Different Liquid Products

Based on the shelf life, the market is segmented into short term shelf life and long term shelf life.

Liquid cartons offering long term shelf life dominates the market. They are designed to protect the contents from external factors, such as light and oxygen, for an extended period, which can degrade the quality and freshness of the liquid product. These cartons are suitable for a wide range of liquid products. These products offer supreme consumer convenience through the preservation of liquid products for a longer duration, saving frequent stocking of goods. As consumer preferences evolve and sustainability remains a central focus in the packaging industry, liquid cartons offering long shelf life are expected to continue dominating the market.

Liquid cartons offering short term shelf life are suitable for the products like fruits juices and dairy products. Due to their low costs and consumer preference to freshness in these products, they are gaining traction in the market.

By Application Analysis

Dairy Products Industry Dominates the Market Due to the Need for the Safety and Integrity of Dairy Products

Based on the application, the market is segmented into dairy products, wine and spirits, juices and drinks, and others.

The dairy products segment dominates the liquid packaging carton industry globally. Dairy products, such as milk, yoghurt, and cream are sensitive to external factors, such as light, moisture, temperature, and oxygen. Liquid cartons provide an excellent barrier against these factors, ensuring the taste and quality of these products. Due to the low cost of liquid cartons, dairy brands can maintain competitive pricing in the market without worrying about sustainability concerns. Liquid cartons are designed to ensure the safety and integrity of dairy products, addressing stringent food safety regulations. Collectively, these factors make the liquid cartons a dominating packaging solution for dairy products.

Liquid packaging cartons for juices and drinks are gaining popularity in the market. Growing demand for on the go beverage packaging is appealing to consumers on the global scale.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Based on geography, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific holds the largest market share of the global liquid packaging carton industry. Dairy, food & beverage, and still drinks industries in Asia Pacific are bolstering, which is driving the global liquid packaging carton market share. Increased investments in the R&D sector and the population growth in developing countries, such as China, Japan, and India, are propelling the region's growth.

North America is the second dominating region in the market. The flourishing dairy market, the leading consumer products industry and the presence of significant key players led to rapid market growth in the North American region.

Europe, after North America, is also one of the dominating regions and is expected to attain massive growth during the forecast period. The regulatory rules by the European food and beverage authorities, especially for the materials utilized in liquid cartons, promote the use of recyclable packaging materials, contributing to regional growth. Moreover, the growing R&D sector is also estimated to drive the European liquid packaging carton market.

The Latin American region will experience intense growth over the projected period due to the rising demand for small, affordable liquid cartons for carbonated soft drinks and the use of sustainable materials.

The Middle East & African liquid packaging carton industry is estimated to attain a moderate growth rate during the forecast period due to the increasing demand for aseptic carton packaging, which ensures product shelf life without refrigeration.

List of Key Liquid Packaging Carton Market Companies

Key Players Focusing on Customer Base Expansion to Drive Market Growth

The global liquid packaging carton market is highly fragmented and competitive. Regarding market share, the few major players dominate the market by offering innovative packaging in the packaging industry. These major players in the market are constantly focusing on expanding their customer base across the regions and innovation.

Major players in the market include Tetra Pak International S.A., Elopak AS, SIG Combibloc Group AG, IPI S.r.l., Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd., and others. Numerous other players operating in the industry are focused on delivering advanced packaging solutions.

List of Key Companies Profiled:

• Tetra Pak International S.A. (Switzerland)


• Elopak AS (Norway)


• SIG Combibloc Group AG (Switzerland)


• Oji Holdings Corporation (Italy)


• Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd. (Japan)


• Adam Pack S.A. (Greece)


• Stora Enso Oyj (Finland)


• H.B. Fuller Company (U.S.)


• LAMI PACKAGING CO., LTD. (China)


• Weyerhaeuser Company (U.S.)


• Smurfit Kappa Group plc (Ireland)


• Greatview Aseptic Packaging Co. Ltd. (China)


• TidePak Aseptic Packaging Material Co. Ltd. (China)


• Lami Packaging (Kunshan) Co. Ltd. (China)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• October 2023 – SIG announced the launch of the uniquely different on-the-go carton bottle SIG DomeMini. The small-size carton pack offers all the convenience of a plastic bottle and the sustainability benefits of a carton pack.


• September 2023 – LUORO, the first company to launch a mouthwash product in Elopack’s D-PAK™ cartons, has expanded its Paperdent range, its sustainable dental care range.


• July 2023 – Smurfit Kappa inaugurated its first plant in North Africa. The inauguration of the new integrated corrugated plant in Rabat, Morocco, marked Smurfit Kappa’s first operation in North Africa.


• February 2023 – Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd. announced the establishment of a manufacturing and sales subsidiary in Hungary.


• April 2022 – Tetra Pak partnered with leading beverage brands to launch the world’s first tethered caps on carton packages. The new caps, introduced by BBL in Ireland, Cido Grupa in the Baltics, LY Company Group Lactalis Puleva in Spain and Weihenstephan in Germany, have been designed to prevent litter and accelerate the transition to renewable materials.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides detailed market analysis and focuses on key aspects such as key players, competitive landscape, product/service types, market segmentation, Porter's five forces analysis, and leading applications of the product. Besides, the report offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above factors, the report encompasses several factors that contributed to the market's growth in recent years.

REPORT SCOPE & SEGMENTATION