Printing Market For Packaging Industry Market Analysis APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, South America - US, China, India, Germany, UK - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

Printing Market For Packaging Industry Size 2024-2028 

The printing market size for packaging industry is forecast to increase by USD 103.4 billion at a CAGR of 8.3% between 2023 and 2028. The printing market for packaging industry is experiencing significant growth due to several key trends. The rise of e-commerce businesses and online shopping has led to a rise in demand for packaging solutions, particularly for e-commerce packaging. This trend is driven by the need for product protection during transit and the importance of product presentation and brand identification for customer satisfaction. Moreover, the increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging materials is another growth factor. This trend is being fueled by consumer preferences for environmentally friendly options and marketing budgets allocated towards sustainable packaging. Flexography, a popular printing technology, is increasingly being used for packaging due to its cost-effectiveness and high-quality print output. Cardboard boxes, a common packaging material, are in high demand due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Digital printing technology is also gaining popularity in the packaging industry due to its ability to produce personalized packaging, which is essential for brand differentiation and customer engagement. Overall, the printing industry for packaging in the US is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by these trends and the increasing importance of packaging in the e-commerce sector.

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

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The packaging industry plays a crucial role in the success of various business sectors, particularly those heavily reliant on e-commerce. The presentation of products through effective and appealing packaging is essential for brand identification and customer attraction. In this context, advanced printing technologies have emerged as game-changers, offering numerous benefits to businesses. Digital printing, a versatile technology, has gained significant traction in the industry. This technology enables on-demand production, allowing for personalized packaging solutions tailored to individual customer needs. The ability to print small quantities cost-effectively makes it an attractive option for e-commerce businesses with varying inventory levels.

Moreover, three-dimensional printing, another advanced technology, offers the unique advantage of creating intricate designs and structures that were previously impossible with traditional methods. This technology can be particularly beneficial for industries dealing with complex product shapes or unique branding requirements. Traditional printing methods, such as rotogravure and lithographic presses, continue to dominate the market due to their efficiency and high-quality output. Rotogravure, known for its ability to print on various materials like plastic, metal, and glass, is widely used for producing labels and flexible packaging. Lithographic presses, on the other hand, are ideal for printing on paper and paperboard, making them suitable for cartons and boxes.

Furthermore, e-commerce businesses have been quick to adopt advanced printing technologies to enhance their packaging offerings. Online shopping has led to increased competition, making product differentiation a key focus. Effective packaging design can significantly influence consumer decision-making, making it a worthwhile investment for marketing budgets. The use of advanced printing technologies in e-commerce packaging not only improves product presentation but also aids in brand identification. Customized packaging solutions can help businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace, ultimately contributing to customer loyalty and repeat purchases. Packaging materials, including cardboard boxes, paper, and plastic, have seen significant advancements in printing capabilities.

Market Segmentation

The market 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.

• Technology
  • Flexography printing
  • Rotogravure printing
  • Digital printing
  • Others
• Geography
  • APAC
    • China
    • India
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
  • North America
    • US
  • Middle East and Africa
  • South America

By Technology Insights

The flexography printing segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Flexography, a printing process utilizing rapid-drying semi-liquid ink, has been a preferred choice for large and extended print runs, predominantly in the packaging and labeling industries. The consistent growth of this printing method can be attributed to its continued relevance, even with the increasing popularity of digital printing. Technological advancements in flexography have led to significant enhancements in performance and quality. These advancements include innovations in inked plates, rotary letterpress prints, anilox rollers, plate mounting methods, curing and drying systems, and an expanded color palette. The implementation of a fixed color palette offers numerous benefits, such as fewer plate and ink changeovers, reduced waste, and consistent production results.

Furthermore, e-commerce businesses are increasingly relying on personalized packaging to enhance product presentation and brand identification. The use of e-commerce packaging, particularly cardboard boxes, has become a crucial aspect of marketing budgets as businesses aim to create a unique and memorable unboxing experience for their customers. Flexography's ability to deliver high-quality, consistent prints at an affordable cost makes it an ideal choice for e-commerce packaging applications.

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The flexography printing segment accounted for USD 63.80 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

APAC is estimated to contribute 45% 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 packaging industry in the Asia Pacific region is experiencing significant growth in the printing sector, driven by the increasing sales of food and beverages and consumer goods in countries like China, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The region's large population and rising purchasing power parity are key factors fueling this demand, particularly for food and beverage applications. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of materials and labor in the region makes it an attractive destination for printing services. Major players in the market are expected to form strategic alliances with local companies during the forecast period to expand their market presence.

Moreover, evolving consumer preferences and environmental concerns, the packaging industry is shifting towards greener printing technologies such as UV-based and aqueous. These environment-friendly solutions align with the growing trend towards sustainable branding and eco-friendly packaging. The use of glass, metal, plastic, label, paper, and paperboard in sustainable packaging applications is also on the rise. As the industry continues to evolve, businesses need to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive. Printing for the packaging industry in the Asia Pacific region is poised for steady growth due to the increasing demand for food and beverages and consumer goods.

Furthermore, the large population and rising purchasing power parity in countries like China, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand are significant drivers of this demand. Strategic alliances between major players and local companies are expected to be a common trend during the forecast period to consolidate market share. Furthermore, the shift towards greener printing technologies and sustainable packaging solutions is gaining momentum, with UV-based and aqueous printing leading the way. The use of materials such as glass, metal, plastic, label, paper, and paperboard in sustainable packaging applications is also on the rise. As the industry continues to evolve, businesses must stay informed about the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive.

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.

Market Driver

The growth of packaging industry is the key driver of the market. The packaging industry market is projected to witness substantial expansion in the upcoming years. Factors contributing to this growth include the rising consumer preference for convenient and hygienic packaging solutions, particularly in sectors such as food and beverage and pharmaceuticals. In these industries, printing technologies like Rotogravure, Offset lithography, and Screen printing remain popular choices for producing high-quality labels and packaging.

Additionally, the increasing adoption of digital print technology has opened new opportunities in the label printing industry, allowing for the use of metallic films, cellophane, and corrugated surfaces. The expansion of e-commerce and organized retail sectors worldwide is also expected to boost demand for packaging solutions.

Market Trends

The growth of eco-friendly packaging is the upcoming trend in the market. In the packaging industry, eco-friendly options have gained significant attention due to their aesthetic appeal and contribution to product differentiation. Sustainable packaging, also known as green packaging, is made from materials that can be easily recycled and are safe for consumers and the environment. These materials include paper, cardboard, biodegradable plastics, and plant starch. The use of eco-friendly packaging is particularly prevalent in the meat, poultry, and seafood sectors. As environmental concerns grow and regulatory requirements become stricter, stakeholders are increasingly turning to biodegradable packaging solutions. Biodegradable packaging materials are produced from 100% starch or a blend of starch and other biodegradable components, with water added as a plasticizer.

Biodegradable packaging materials consist of various biodegradable films such as protein-based plastics, polysaccharides, polyoxyethylene, and polyvinyl alcohol. Digital printing, three-dimensional printing, rotogravure press, lithographic press, and offset printing process are used to print on these eco-friendly packaging materials. Both water-based inks and UV-curable inks are employed for printing, depending on the specific requirements of the project.

Furthermore, the packaging industry is embracing eco-friendly options to meet consumer demands for sustainable products and comply with environmental regulations. Biodegradable packaging materials offer a range of benefits, including aesthetic appeal, product differentiation, and environmental sustainability. Printing technologies continue to advance, enabling high-quality, cost-effective production of eco-friendly packaging.

Market Challenge

High investments in digital printing is a key challenge affecting the market growth. In the packaging industry, digital printing for medicines, corrugated boxes, flexible packaging, folding cartons, labels, and tags, requires substantial financial commitment due to the high cost per unit compared to traditional printing technologies like flexography. Established players must invest heavily in new digital printing facilities, which can hinder the adoption of innovative printing solutions.

The price difference between digital and analog printing methods ranges from 10% to 20% per unit. In the case of digital printing on flexible plastic, the unit cost is approximately 50% higher, excluding setup costs. These high investments pose a significant barrier to the expansion of the global printing market for the packaging industry. It's essential for businesses to consider the long-term benefits of digital printing, such as customization, shorter lead times, and reduced inventory costs, to justify the initial investment. 

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The 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 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, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.

A B Graphic International Ltd. - The company specializes in providing advanced digital finishing solutions, including turret rewinders and inspection slitter rewinders, for the packaging industry in the United States.

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

• A B Graphic International Ltd.
• Anglia Labels Ltd.
• Bell Printers Pvt. Ltd.
• Dai Nippon Printing Co. Ltd.
• Duncan Print Group Ltd.
• DuPont de Nemours Inc.
• Eastman Kodak Co.
• Flexo Image Graphics Pvt. Ltd.
• Flint Group
• Frontier Label Inc.
• HP Inc.
• Landa Corp. Ltd.
• Lofton Label and Packaging Inc.
• Mondi Plc
• Parksons Packaging Ltd.
• Quad Graphics Inc.
• RR Donnelley and Sons Co.
• Sakata Inx India Pvt Ltd.
• Toppan Inc.
• Xerox Holdings Corp.

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 market 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 printing industry plays a crucial role in the packaging sector, providing various printing technologies to enhance product presentation and brand identification. Aesthetic appeal is a significant factor driving the demand for advanced printing techniques such as digital printing and three-dimensional printing. These technologies enable product differentiation, catering to the unique requirements of various industries, including personal care & cosmetics, chemicals, electronics, household products, and food and beverage. Sustainable printing solutions are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging. Water-based inks and UV-curable inks are popular choices for sustainable printing. The use of greener printing technologies, such as solvent-based, UV-based, and aqueous, is essential for environment-friendly packaging solutions.

Furthermore, online shopping and e-commerce businesses have fueled the growth of the label printing industry. Personalized packaging is a key trend, with customized labels and tags being in high demand. Flexible packaging, including cartons and labels, is another growing segment, catering to the needs of various industries. The printing industry offers various printing processes, including rotogravure, lithographic press, offset printing process, and flexography. These technologies cater to the diverse needs of industries, from corrugated box printing to label printing. The use of metallic films, cellophane, and corrugated surfaces adds value to packaging, enhancing branding and consumer appeal. Marketing budgets for e-commerce packaging continue to increase, with businesses investing in sustainable and attractive packaging solutions to differentiate themselves from competitors. The use of paper, paperboard, glass, metal, plastic, and label materials is essential for creating effective packaging designs that cater to consumer preferences.

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

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the market growth and forecasting between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the size of the market  and its contribution of the market in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming market growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across APAC, Europe, North America, 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 growth of market companies

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