The solid board food packaging market is on the rise. It was valued at about $2.88 billion in 2025 and is projected to hit $3.88 billion by 2035, according to a report by Towards Packaging.
So, what exactly is solid board for food packaging? It’s a sturdy paperboard made from either virgin or recycled fibers. This material is durable, hygienic, and great for printing, making it perfect for food products like frozen meals and baked goods. The market growth is fueled by a growing need for sustainable and recyclable options, as well as the rising trend of ready-to-eat foods.
Several big companies are investing heavily to boost their solid board production. For instance:
- Mondi plc recently acquired Schumacher Packaging for $686 million to enhance their solid board capabilities.
- Smurfit Westrock merged with another company for $34 billion to streamline production of sustainable packaging.
- Graphic Packaging Holding invested $600 million in a new facility in Texas to produce high-quality paperboard for food cartons.
- ITC Ltd set aside part of a $200 million budget to expand its paperboard production for eco-friendly food packaging.
- Agrileaf raised nearly $2 million to produce biodegradable trays and dinnerware for the food service sector.
Key trends are shaping this market:
- Sustainability: Consumers and regulators are pushing for eco-friendly materials, leading companies to use solid boards made from recycled fibers.
- Advanced Coatings: New barrier technologies are enhancing moisture and grease resistance in solid boards, making them suitable for a wider range of foods.
- Digital Printing: Brands are using digital print technologies to stand out on shelves with attractive designs and customizable packaging.
- Lightweight Design: Creating lighter packaging reduces material use and transportation emissions, contributing to sustainability efforts.
- Retail-Ready Formats: Solid boards are being designed for easy stocking and improved visibility, helping brands grab consumer attention.
The focus on sustainability is more crucial now than ever, as brands look to replace plastic with recyclable materials. Recent research highlights that nearly 70% of consumers prefer brands that use sustainable packaging. Many government regulations are also supporting this shift.
Regions like Europe are leading the charge, driven by strong environmental laws and high consumer demand for sustainable products. The UK, in particular, is influencing trends with taxes on plastic and incentives for recyclable packaging.
In the Asia-Pacific region, urbanization and rising incomes are boosting demand for solid board packaging, especially in countries like China and India. Governments are enforcing stricter plastic regulations, encouraging companies to switch to paper-based solutions.
Overall, the future of solid board food packaging looks promising. With continued innovation and a focus on sustainability, expect to see more exciting developments in this area.
For further insights into packaging trends, visit Towards Packaging.
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Precedence Research, Towards Packaging
