GITNUXREPORT 2025

Supply Chain In The Packaging Industry Statistics

Supply chain sustainability, automation, and innovative materials shape packaging industry dynamics.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

Our Commitment to Accuracy

Rigorous fact-checking • Reputable sources • Regular updatesLearn more

Statistic 1

Approximately 80% of consumers consider packaging important in their purchasing decisions

Statistic 2

About 65% of global packaging companies have invested in eco-friendly packaging solutions in 2023

Statistic 3

Recycling rates for glass bottles in North America reached 35% in 2023, an increase from 28% in 2020

Statistic 4

The use of recycled materials in packaging increased by 20% in 2023, reducing reliance on virgin plastics

Statistic 5

About 85% of packaging waste is destined for landfills, with only 15% properly recycled in many regions

Statistic 6

The adoption of eco-design principles in packaging decreased carbon footprint by 18% on average

Statistic 7

The packaging industry’s carbon footprint reduction initiatives resulted in a 10% decline in emissions in 2023

Statistic 8

Approximately 60% of plastics used in packaging are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to environmental concerns

Statistic 9

70% of consumers prefer brands that use sustainable packaging, influencing brand loyalty

Statistic 10

The demand for eco-friendly packaging in the food sector grew by 20% year-over-year in 2023, reflecting consumer health and environmental concerns

Statistic 11

Packaging recoveries through recycling increased by 18% in 2023, reducing landfill waste

Statistic 12

The majority of food packaging waste generated in developing countries is neither recycled nor properly disposed of, leading to environmental issues

Statistic 13

The shift towards minimalistic packaging designs reduced material usage by approximately 20% in 2023, lowering environmental impact

Statistic 14

Consumer preference for brands with transparent packaging increased by 30% in 2023, impacting marketing strategies

Statistic 15

The environmental impact of packaging waste in oceans is estimated to harm 800 marine species annually, prompting increased sustainability efforts

Statistic 16

78% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for environmentally friendly packaging, influencing company strategies

Statistic 17

Consumer demand for opaque and foil packaging increased by 10% in 2023, driven by privacy and preservation concerns

Statistic 18

Over 60% of packaging innovations in 2023 focused on sustainability enhancements, including lightweighting and renewable materials

Statistic 19

The increase in demand for minimalist, transparent, and compact packaging solutions reduced material waste by 20% in developed markets

Statistic 20

The use of sustainable inks and dyes in packaging increased by 30% in 2023, supporting environmental goals

Statistic 21

The penetration of biodegradable films in food packaging increased by 25% in 2023, driven by regulations and consumer demand

Statistic 22

Pollution caused by packaging materials in land, waterways, and oceans is estimated to cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually, prompting stricter regulations

Statistic 23

The percentage of recycled packaging materials used in new products increased to 18% in 2023, reflecting growing sustainability commitments

Statistic 24

Container return rates improved globally by 10% in 2023 due to deposit return schemes and better logistics, reducing waste

Statistic 25

The global demand for eco-labels and certifications for sustainable packaging rose by 25% in 2023, influencing consumer trust

Statistic 26

55% of consumers in North America and Europe prefer packaging that can be reused multiple times, impacting brand strategies

Statistic 27

The average new product launch in packaging with sustainability features increased by 20% in 2023, reflecting market trends

Statistic 28

The share of recyclable packaging materials in packaging supply chains increased to over 70% in developed markets by 2023, driven by regulation and consumer demand

Statistic 29

Approximately 73% of packaging companies plan to increase their sustainability investments in the next two years

Statistic 30

The global packaging industry is projected to reach a market size of $1.05 trillion by 2026, increasing at a CAGR of 4.2%

Statistic 31

The retail packaging segment accounts for about 40% of the total packaging industry revenue

Statistic 32

The plastic packaging segment accounts for nearly 50% of the total packaging market

Statistic 33

The global e-commerce packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7% from 2023 to 2030

Statistic 34

Corrugated cardboard remains the most used packaging material globally, accounting for over 40% of packaging volume in 2023

Statistic 35

The global rigid plastic packaging market size was valued at $102 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% through 2030

Statistic 36

The fastest-growing segment within the packaging industry is flexible packaging, with a CAGR of 5.8% projected through 2027

Statistic 37

About 45% of packaging companies globally have adopted digital printing technologies to customize packaging

Statistic 38

The automation of packaging line operations reduces labor costs by around 30%, according to industry reports in 2023

Statistic 39

The global glass packaging market size was valued at $35 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at 3.2% CAGR through 2030

Statistic 40

In 2023, demand for biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions increased by approximately 25%, driven by consumer preferences

Statistic 41

The global aluminum can packaging market is expected to reach $37 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.5%

Statistic 42

The rise of e-commerce has led to a 12% increase in demand for protective packaging solutions globally

Statistic 43

The global paperboard packaging market is projected to reach $150 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.0%

Statistic 44

Globally, 40% of supply chain executives consider packaging a critical factor in sustainability initiatives

Statistic 45

The global biodegradable packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2030, reaching $22 billion

Statistic 46

More than 50% of packaging companies plan to implement circular economy principles by 2025, aiming for zero waste

Statistic 47

The shipment volume of flexible packaging material increased by 9% in 2023, driven by demand for lightweight and convenient packaging

Statistic 48

The use of nanotechnology in packaging materials increased by 12% in 2023, offering improved barrier properties and shelf life

Statistic 49

The global market for active and intelligent packaging is projected to reach $15 billion by 2025, driven by advancements in technology

Statistic 50

The use of sealable, resealable packaging increased by 15% in 2023, driven by e-commerce and convenience trends

Statistic 51

The global market for compostable packaging is projected to reach $8 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7%

Statistic 52

The adoption of 3D printing for custom packaging solutions increased by 22% in 2023, enabling on-demand production

Statistic 53

The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for packaging in the supply chain, with a CAGR of 6.3% expected through 2027

Statistic 54

The global corrugated box manufacturing industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% through 2028, reaching $230 billion

Statistic 55

The share of biodegradable plastic in packaging is projected to increase from 5% in 2023 to over 12% by 2030, due to regulatory pressures

Statistic 56

Reusable packaging solutions are projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% until 2027, driven by sustainability goals

Statistic 57

The global market for flat and rigid plastics in packaging is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% reaching $115 billion by 2027

Statistic 58

The global market for flexible pouches is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% until 2028, reaching $21 billion

Statistic 59

The growth of zero-waste packaging solutions is expected to reach $12 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%

Statistic 60

85% of packaging companies have implemented or plan to implement automation technologies on their production lines by 2024

Statistic 61

The global stand-up pouch market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% through 2028, reaching over $9 billion

Statistic 62

The global market for thermoformed packaging is expected to grow at 4.2% CAGR, reaching $19 billion by 2027

Statistic 63

The deployment of AR (augmented reality) in product packaging increased by 15% in 2023, enhancing customer experience and brand engagement

Statistic 64

The global market for recycled PET (rPET) in packaging is projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 8.3%

Statistic 65

The overall adoption rate of sustainable packaging solutions in supply chains increased by 20% in 2023, with companies aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030

Statistic 66

The Asia-Pacific region accounted for over 35% of the total global packaging consumption in 2023, driven by rapid urbanization and growth in e-commerce

Statistic 67

The global market for biodegradable and compostable plastics in packaging is expected to reach $12 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.1%

Statistic 68

The growth in demand for plant-based packaging materials is projected to be 9% annually from 2023 to 2030, driven by consumer health and sustainability concerns

Statistic 69

The use of stand-up pouches in food and beverage packaging increased by 12% in 2023, favored for convenience and efficient material use

Statistic 70

Increased use of nanomaterials in packaging can improve barrier properties by up to 50%, extending shelf life

Statistic 71

Supply chain disruptions caused by packaging shortages increased by 22% in the first half of 2023

Statistic 72

The adoption of automation in packaging supply chains reduces packaging costs by up to 25%

Statistic 73

The average lead time for packaging materials has increased by 12% due to supply chain delays

Statistic 74

The use of smart packaging solutions in supply chains increased by 18% in 2023, aiding in inventory management and tracking

Statistic 75

Sustainable packaging initiatives have led to a 12% reduction in packaging weight on average, contributing to lower transportation emissions

Statistic 76

The supply chain cost associated with packaging increased by approximately 10% in 2023 due to inflation and logistical challenges

Statistic 77

Innovations in lightweight packaging materials have resulted in 15% savings in transportation costs in 2023

Statistic 78

The adoption of RFID technology in packaging supply chains increased by 20% in 2023, improving inventory accuracy

Statistic 79

The use of predictive analytics for supply chain optimization in packaging increased by 35% in 2023, leading to reduced lead times and costs

Statistic 80

The average lead time for shipping empty packaging containers has decreased by 8% due to increased automation

Statistic 81

Sustainable packaging reduces overall supply chain emissions by up to 15%, according to recent studies

Statistic 82

The cost savings from using lightweight packaging exceeded $5 billion globally in 2023, due to transportation savings

Statistic 83

Digital twin technology in supply chain management for packaging improved predictive maintenance and reduced downtime by 20%

Statistic 84

Approximately 55% of packaging companies are investing in advanced analytics tools to optimize supply chain operations

Statistic 85

The largest share of packaging materials shipped globally are in the form of bulk shipments, accounting for about 60% of total freight

Statistic 86

The implementation of AI-driven demand forecasting in packaging supply chains reduced excess inventory by 25% in 2023

Statistic 87

Companies adopting blockchain technology for supply chain transparency in packaging reported a 33% reduction in counterfeit products in 2023

Statistic 88

The deployment of blockchain for tracking and authenticity in packaging supply chains increased by 33% in 2023, reducing counterfeiting

Statistic 89

The use of biodegradable packaging materials in supply chains increased by 15% in 2023

Statistic 90

Packaging-related waste contributes to approximately 20% of global plastic waste

Statistic 91

The energy consumption of packaging manufacturing facilities decreased by 12% in 2023 due to efficiency upgrades and renewable energy integration

Statistic 92

The percentage of packaging waste in landfills has decreased by 5% since 2020 due to improved recycling programs

Statistic 93

About 70% of packaging manufacturing facilities have invested in energy-efficient machinery in 2023, aiming to reduce carbon emissions

Statistic 94

The global market share of lightweight flexible films in packaging increased by 15% in 2023, contributing to savings in transportation emissions

Statistic 95

Up to 90% of packaging machinery purchased in 2023 incorporated IoT connectivity to improve operation efficiency

Statistic 96

The average turnaround time for custom packaging production decreased by 10% in 2023 due to digital fabrication techniques

Statistic 97

Smart packaging with QR codes and NFC technology improved consumer engagement rates by 40% in 2023, facilitating direct interaction

Statistic 98

Digital contamination detection in packaging lines reduced defects by 25% in 2023, improving quality control

Slide 1 of 98

Sources

Our Reports have been cited by:

Trust Badges - Publications that have cited our reports

Key Highlights

The global packaging industry is projected to reach a market size of $1.05 trillion by 2026, increasing at a CAGR of 4.2%
Approximately 80% of consumers consider packaging important in their purchasing decisions
The retail packaging segment accounts for about 40% of the total packaging industry revenue
The use of biodegradable packaging materials in supply chains increased by 15% in 2023
Supply chain disruptions caused by packaging shortages increased by 22% in the first half of 2023
The adoption of automation in packaging supply chains reduces packaging costs by up to 25%
About 65% of global packaging companies have invested in eco-friendly packaging solutions in 2023
The plastic packaging segment accounts for nearly 50% of the total packaging market
The average lead time for packaging materials has increased by 12% due to supply chain delays
The global e-commerce packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7% from 2023 to 2030
Packaging-related waste contributes to approximately 20% of global plastic waste
Recycling rates for glass bottles in North America reached 35% in 2023, an increase from 28% in 2020
Corrugated cardboard remains the most used packaging material globally, accounting for over 40% of packaging volume in 2023

As the packaging industry approaches a staggering $1.05 trillion global market by 2026, innovation, sustainability, and supply chain resilience are shaping its future amidst rising consumer demands and environmental imperatives.

Consumer Preferences and Sustainability

Approximately 80% of consumers consider packaging important in their purchasing decisions
About 65% of global packaging companies have invested in eco-friendly packaging solutions in 2023
Recycling rates for glass bottles in North America reached 35% in 2023, an increase from 28% in 2020
The use of recycled materials in packaging increased by 20% in 2023, reducing reliance on virgin plastics
About 85% of packaging waste is destined for landfills, with only 15% properly recycled in many regions
The adoption of eco-design principles in packaging decreased carbon footprint by 18% on average
The packaging industry’s carbon footprint reduction initiatives resulted in a 10% decline in emissions in 2023
Approximately 60% of plastics used in packaging are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to environmental concerns
70% of consumers prefer brands that use sustainable packaging, influencing brand loyalty
The demand for eco-friendly packaging in the food sector grew by 20% year-over-year in 2023, reflecting consumer health and environmental concerns
Packaging recoveries through recycling increased by 18% in 2023, reducing landfill waste
The majority of food packaging waste generated in developing countries is neither recycled nor properly disposed of, leading to environmental issues
The shift towards minimalistic packaging designs reduced material usage by approximately 20% in 2023, lowering environmental impact
Consumer preference for brands with transparent packaging increased by 30% in 2023, impacting marketing strategies
The environmental impact of packaging waste in oceans is estimated to harm 800 marine species annually, prompting increased sustainability efforts
78% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for environmentally friendly packaging, influencing company strategies
Consumer demand for opaque and foil packaging increased by 10% in 2023, driven by privacy and preservation concerns
Over 60% of packaging innovations in 2023 focused on sustainability enhancements, including lightweighting and renewable materials
The increase in demand for minimalist, transparent, and compact packaging solutions reduced material waste by 20% in developed markets
The use of sustainable inks and dyes in packaging increased by 30% in 2023, supporting environmental goals
The penetration of biodegradable films in food packaging increased by 25% in 2023, driven by regulations and consumer demand
Pollution caused by packaging materials in land, waterways, and oceans is estimated to cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually, prompting stricter regulations
The percentage of recycled packaging materials used in new products increased to 18% in 2023, reflecting growing sustainability commitments
Container return rates improved globally by 10% in 2023 due to deposit return schemes and better logistics, reducing waste
The global demand for eco-labels and certifications for sustainable packaging rose by 25% in 2023, influencing consumer trust
55% of consumers in North America and Europe prefer packaging that can be reused multiple times, impacting brand strategies
The average new product launch in packaging with sustainability features increased by 20% in 2023, reflecting market trends
The share of recyclable packaging materials in packaging supply chains increased to over 70% in developed markets by 2023, driven by regulation and consumer demand

Consumer Preferences and Sustainability Interpretation

As eco-conscious consumers reshape purchasing priorities, the packaging industry is increasingly leaning into sustainable solutions—highlighted by a 20% rise in recycled materials and a 30% boost in eco-friendly inks—yet with 85% of waste still destined for landfills, it's clear that the journey toward truly green packaging remains a work in progress, one where innovation and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand to prevent oceans from becoming the next landfill.

Industry Outlook

Approximately 73% of packaging companies plan to increase their sustainability investments in the next two years

Industry Outlook Interpretation

With nearly three-quarters of packaging firms committed to ramping up sustainability efforts, the industry is clearly packaging its future in greener, more responsible materials—because even boxes need a conscience.

Market Trends and Industry Outlook

The global packaging industry is projected to reach a market size of $1.05 trillion by 2026, increasing at a CAGR of 4.2%
The retail packaging segment accounts for about 40% of the total packaging industry revenue
The plastic packaging segment accounts for nearly 50% of the total packaging market
The global e-commerce packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7% from 2023 to 2030
Corrugated cardboard remains the most used packaging material globally, accounting for over 40% of packaging volume in 2023
The global rigid plastic packaging market size was valued at $102 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% through 2030
The fastest-growing segment within the packaging industry is flexible packaging, with a CAGR of 5.8% projected through 2027
About 45% of packaging companies globally have adopted digital printing technologies to customize packaging
The automation of packaging line operations reduces labor costs by around 30%, according to industry reports in 2023
The global glass packaging market size was valued at $35 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at 3.2% CAGR through 2030
In 2023, demand for biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions increased by approximately 25%, driven by consumer preferences
The global aluminum can packaging market is expected to reach $37 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.5%
The rise of e-commerce has led to a 12% increase in demand for protective packaging solutions globally
The global paperboard packaging market is projected to reach $150 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.0%
Globally, 40% of supply chain executives consider packaging a critical factor in sustainability initiatives
The global biodegradable packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2030, reaching $22 billion
More than 50% of packaging companies plan to implement circular economy principles by 2025, aiming for zero waste
The shipment volume of flexible packaging material increased by 9% in 2023, driven by demand for lightweight and convenient packaging
The use of nanotechnology in packaging materials increased by 12% in 2023, offering improved barrier properties and shelf life
The global market for active and intelligent packaging is projected to reach $15 billion by 2025, driven by advancements in technology
The use of sealable, resealable packaging increased by 15% in 2023, driven by e-commerce and convenience trends
The global market for compostable packaging is projected to reach $8 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7%
The adoption of 3D printing for custom packaging solutions increased by 22% in 2023, enabling on-demand production
The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for packaging in the supply chain, with a CAGR of 6.3% expected through 2027
The global corrugated box manufacturing industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% through 2028, reaching $230 billion
The share of biodegradable plastic in packaging is projected to increase from 5% in 2023 to over 12% by 2030, due to regulatory pressures
Reusable packaging solutions are projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% until 2027, driven by sustainability goals
The global market for flat and rigid plastics in packaging is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% reaching $115 billion by 2027
The global market for flexible pouches is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% until 2028, reaching $21 billion
The growth of zero-waste packaging solutions is expected to reach $12 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%
85% of packaging companies have implemented or plan to implement automation technologies on their production lines by 2024
The global stand-up pouch market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% through 2028, reaching over $9 billion
The global market for thermoformed packaging is expected to grow at 4.2% CAGR, reaching $19 billion by 2027
The deployment of AR (augmented reality) in product packaging increased by 15% in 2023, enhancing customer experience and brand engagement
The global market for recycled PET (rPET) in packaging is projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 8.3%
The overall adoption rate of sustainable packaging solutions in supply chains increased by 20% in 2023, with companies aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030
The Asia-Pacific region accounted for over 35% of the total global packaging consumption in 2023, driven by rapid urbanization and growth in e-commerce
The global market for biodegradable and compostable plastics in packaging is expected to reach $12 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.1%
The growth in demand for plant-based packaging materials is projected to be 9% annually from 2023 to 2030, driven by consumer health and sustainability concerns
The use of stand-up pouches in food and beverage packaging increased by 12% in 2023, favored for convenience and efficient material use

Market Trends and Industry Outlook Interpretation

With the packaging industry poised to surpass $1 trillion by 2026 and innovate through automation, sustainability, and smart technology, it’s clear that in the race for market share, companies must pack a punch—preferably eco-friendly and digitally enhanced—to stay ahead in a world that’s increasingly focused on convenience, customization, and environmental responsibility.

Product Development and Innovation

Increased use of nanomaterials in packaging can improve barrier properties by up to 50%, extending shelf life

Product Development and Innovation Interpretation

As nanomaterials become the packaging industry's new secret weapon, their ability to boost barrier properties by up to 50% could turn extended shelf life from a bonus into the new standard—proving that even in supply chains, the smallest innovations make the biggest difference.

Supply Chain and Logistics

Supply chain disruptions caused by packaging shortages increased by 22% in the first half of 2023
The adoption of automation in packaging supply chains reduces packaging costs by up to 25%
The average lead time for packaging materials has increased by 12% due to supply chain delays
The use of smart packaging solutions in supply chains increased by 18% in 2023, aiding in inventory management and tracking
Sustainable packaging initiatives have led to a 12% reduction in packaging weight on average, contributing to lower transportation emissions
The supply chain cost associated with packaging increased by approximately 10% in 2023 due to inflation and logistical challenges
Innovations in lightweight packaging materials have resulted in 15% savings in transportation costs in 2023
The adoption of RFID technology in packaging supply chains increased by 20% in 2023, improving inventory accuracy
The use of predictive analytics for supply chain optimization in packaging increased by 35% in 2023, leading to reduced lead times and costs
The average lead time for shipping empty packaging containers has decreased by 8% due to increased automation
Sustainable packaging reduces overall supply chain emissions by up to 15%, according to recent studies
The cost savings from using lightweight packaging exceeded $5 billion globally in 2023, due to transportation savings
Digital twin technology in supply chain management for packaging improved predictive maintenance and reduced downtime by 20%
Approximately 55% of packaging companies are investing in advanced analytics tools to optimize supply chain operations
The largest share of packaging materials shipped globally are in the form of bulk shipments, accounting for about 60% of total freight
The implementation of AI-driven demand forecasting in packaging supply chains reduced excess inventory by 25% in 2023
Companies adopting blockchain technology for supply chain transparency in packaging reported a 33% reduction in counterfeit products in 2023
The deployment of blockchain for tracking and authenticity in packaging supply chains increased by 33% in 2023, reducing counterfeiting

Supply Chain and Logistics Interpretation

As supply chain disruptions in packaging surged by 22% amid a 35% boost in predictive analytics and a 20% rise in RFID adoption, it’s clear that embracing smarter, lighter, and more transparent solutions not only tackles delays and costs—now up 10%—but also signals a sustainable shift that could streamline the industry’s future while saving over $5 billion globally in transportation alone.

Sustainability

The use of biodegradable packaging materials in supply chains increased by 15% in 2023
Packaging-related waste contributes to approximately 20% of global plastic waste
The energy consumption of packaging manufacturing facilities decreased by 12% in 2023 due to efficiency upgrades and renewable energy integration
The percentage of packaging waste in landfills has decreased by 5% since 2020 due to improved recycling programs
About 70% of packaging manufacturing facilities have invested in energy-efficient machinery in 2023, aiming to reduce carbon emissions
The global market share of lightweight flexible films in packaging increased by 15% in 2023, contributing to savings in transportation emissions

Sustainability Interpretation

Despite a 15% rise in biodegradable packaging and significant strides in energy efficiency and recycling, the persistent contribution of packaging waste to global plastic pollution underscores that sustainable supply chains are still a work in progress, even as the industry embraces greener innovations.

Technological Advancements and Tracking

Up to 90% of packaging machinery purchased in 2023 incorporated IoT connectivity to improve operation efficiency
The average turnaround time for custom packaging production decreased by 10% in 2023 due to digital fabrication techniques
Smart packaging with QR codes and NFC technology improved consumer engagement rates by 40% in 2023, facilitating direct interaction
Digital contamination detection in packaging lines reduced defects by 25% in 2023, improving quality control

Technological Advancements and Tracking Interpretation

With nearly all packaging machinery now IoT-enabled, digital fabrication trimming a tenth off turnaround times, and smart packaging boosting consumer interaction by 40%, 2023 clearly proved that embracing digital innovation is the key to packaging industry’s efficiency, engagement, and quality gains—and those who don’t adapt might find themselves packaged out.