Flexible Food Packaging in Europe: Market Grows Despite Rising Demands

Flexible food packaging remains on a growth path. According to the latest study “Flexible Food Packaging in Europe” by SCHÖNWALD CONSULTING, consumption in 2025 was over 4.2 million tonnes. At the same time, the market, materials, and regulatory requirements are changing significantly.

Market Overview 2025: Growth and a Clear Structure

Today, the market has a clear structure. In total, there are 11 relevant market segments. The key facts:

• Over 4.2 million tonnes consumed in Europe
• 11 market segments
• More than 50% is accounted for by the top 3 segments
• Stable demand with growth projected until 2030

The Most Important Market Segments

The study distinguishes between the following application areas:

• Confectionery (largest segment)
• Convenience Food & Fresh Products (No. 2, fast-growing)
• Dry Products
• Meat and Meat Products
• Pet Food
• Snacks
• Bakery Products
• Dairy Products
• Coffee & Tea
• Sealable Lidding Films
• Beverages

Important: The three largest segments together account for more than half of the market.

Convenience Food Shows Particularly Strong Growth

The “Convenience Food & Fresh Products” segment shows the strongest growth. The reasons are clear:

• More “to-go” consumption
• Urbanization
• Higher convenience requirements
• Reduction of food waste
• Growth in e-commerce

Flexible packaging supports these trends through functionality and efficiency.

Why Flexible Packaging Continues to Win

Flexible packaging meets many requirements simultaneously:

• Protection of sensitive food products
• Shelf-life extension
• Light weight
• Excellent processability
• Flexible adaptation to products

This makes them the most economical solution for many applications.

Key Innovation Trends

The study highlights four central development directions:

Mono-materials

• Better recyclability
• Replacement of complex laminates

Bio-based and fiber-based solutions

• Complementing conventional plastics
• Increasing demand

Barrier technologies

• Targeted protection with reduced material usage

Lightweighting

• Less material
• Lower costs and carbon footprint

PPWR: The Most Important Driver for Change

A central component of the study is the EU PPWR regulation. The key impacts:

• New requirements for recyclability
• Targets for material usage
• Clear deadlines and transition periods
• Influence on design and material selection

Companies must act early to remain compliant.

Conclusion for Flexpack Experts

The market continues to grow. At the same time, requirements are increasing. Key areas of action:

• Focus on high-growth segments
• Switching to recyclable materials
• Evaluating mono-material solutions
• Optimizing barrier properties
• Considering PPWR during development

Without sound market data, decisions are becoming increasingly risky.

Benefit from the latest study on flexible packaging in Europe.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Study

How large is the market for flexible food packaging in Europe?

In 2025, the market was over 4.2 million tonnes and continues to grow.

Which segments are the most important?

The most important segments are Confectionery, Convenience Food & Fresh Products, and Dry Products. These three account for more than 50% of the market.

Why is convenience packaging growing so rapidly?

Drivers include changing lifestyles, increased “to-go” consumption, urbanization, and requirements for freshness and shelf life.

Which materials are in focus?

Mono-materials (for recycling), bio-based plastics, fiber-based solutions, and optimized high barriers.

What role does the PPWR play?

The PPWR is the most important regulatory driver. It influences material selection, packaging design, recyclability, and future market access.

What does this mean for companies?

Companies must adapt their packaging, invest in new materials, and consider regulatory requirements at an early stage.

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