Polyethylene Films Market Companies, Size, Share, Analysis

Polyethylene Films Market Size Anticipated to Attain USD 139.98 Billion by 2032

The report covers Polyethylene Films Market Segments - By Material: Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High-Density Polyethylene Films (HDPE), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Films (LLDPE), Bio Polyethylene Films; By Product Type: Stretch Films, Shrink Films; By Packaging Type: Bags, Pouches, Boxes, Sachets, Stick Packs, Wraps, Labels; By End Use: Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics & Personal Care, Industrial, Household, Agriculture, Others; By Region: North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, LAMEA. The report offers the value (in USD Billion) for the above segments.

Polyethylene Films Market Size and Future Analysis (2023 - 2032)

The global polyethylene films market is estimated to grow from USD 90.19 billion in 2022 to reach an estimated USD 139.98 billion by 2032, growing at a 4.5% CAGR between 2023 and 2032.

Polyethylene Films Market Size 2023 - 2032

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Report Highlights: Important Revelations

  • Global polyethylene films sector is poised for growth, starting at a value of USD 90.19 billion in 2022.
  • The market is expected to grow, reaching an estimated value of USD 139.98 billion by 2032.
  • This expansion at a consistent CAGR of 4.5% over the period from 2023 to 2032.
  • Exploring the surge in demand for polyethylene films in Asia-Pacific.
  • North America hotbed of innovation in the polyethylene films market.
  • Unveiling the adaptability of LDPE films in contemporary applications.
  • Increasing significance of polyethylene stretch films in industries.
  • Emergence of polyethylene bags as flexible solutions for varied packaging requirements.
  • Diverse advantages of polyethylene films in the food and beverage sector.

The chemical ethylene, which is present in natural gas and petroleum, is the source of the polymer film that is called polyethylene (PE). considering its many uses, PE film is referred to by many different kinds of names, including plastic sheeting, polyethylene sheet, poly sheeting, and poly film. Despite over 100 million metric tonnes of PE resin generated annually, polyethylene has become the plastic material that is used the most globally. PE makes up nearly 34% of all polymer produced globally. The production of polyethylene is expected to be 22.67 million metric tonnes. An extensive selection of packaging materials, such as bags, wraps, pouches, and sacks, are able to be manufactured by moulding polyethylene films.

PE film is used in many different applications because the material is inexpensive to produce, highly flexible, lightweight, and protective. It has the capacity to produce solid, crystalline shapes. It is the polymer that is actually utilised throughout the globe.  A number of companies use polyethylene to produce their labels because it is the least cheapest labelling material available. Although polyethylene labels are strong, flexible, long-lasting, and have exceptional resistance capabilities, they are excellent for a wide range of applications.

The film can take ages for this procedure to take place since polyethylene degrades naturally. Due to its affordable price, simplicity of manufacturing, and lightweight nature, film made from polyethylene is used in virtually all industries. The environment could benefit from it also once it is employed on objects like containers for shipping in water. Annual production of plastic bags is projected to be 380 billion in the United States exclusively. Yet the recycling rate for plastics remains approximately 5%. The residual material eventually ends up in rivers, landfills, and the ocean, where it may pose a threat to the environment.

The detrimental effects on the environment of polyethylene films can be significantly reduced if someone is vigilant about reusing and recycling the material. Many companies have already developed strategies to accelerate polyethylene's biodegradation, and as the general understanding of the environment's vulnerability increases, one might anticipate seeing more initiatives in this field. PE film is one of the most frequently employed labels due to its benefits and ability to be recycled.

For Instance,

  • In February 2024, Large-format polyethylene film manufacturing has begun in the Smolensk space due to Polymer LLC. This achievement marks the end of a large-scale investment project that was intended to create the Polymer-2 production plant in the locality.
  • The growing trend towards biodegradable and compostable polyethylene films as a component of sustainability activities across several industries. Manufacturer are working for bio-based polyethylene films which is made from plant origin feedstocks and other sustainable resources.
  • Wide applications of polyethylene films, such as food packaging films, agricultural and barrier properties are significant. The goal to preserve freshness, increase shelf life and shield products from pollutants like oxygen, moisture, and UV light, manufacturers are investing in the production of complex barrier films with improved qualities.
  • Smart and intelligent packaging products are establishing ground in the polyethylene film industry, with features such as quality indications, temperature monitoring, and tamper-evident properties. Manufacturers are integrating indicators, sensors, and identification codes into polyethylene films to offer current data on product quality, safety, and authenticity.
  • Micron reduction and light weighting programmes attempt to optimise material consumption and reduce packaging waste in the polyethylene film market. Manufacturers are producing thinner films with decreased thicknesses while keeping the performance and mechanical qualities.

Understanding the Growth in Demand for Polyethylene Films in Asia-Pacific

Polyethylene Films Market APAC, NA, EU, LAMEA Share

Asia pacific region contributes to the highest share in polyethylene film market. With the market share of 40.2%, this rapidly growing stronghold attracted by increasing middle class in developing countries such as India and China. These countries are the leading in production of polyethylene films. Major part of these films incorporated in food and beverage packaging. India, China, Vietnam and other Asia countries has largest food and beverage network packaging market. the Asia-Pacific Region will lead the world in terms of LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) consumption, the agricultural sector of this region will account more than 39% of the world's total LDPE consumption.

Plastic industry in India, especially, contributes a lot to the national economic index, where the country is listed amongst the world's leading markets. The land touts an advanced manufacturing sector and is a major exporter of polyethylene films as well as other type of plastics. Among the key factors that account for India's leading role in this industry are the country's vast manufacturing capacities, strategic location, and increasing skill set on plastic manufacturing techniques.

Export of Polyethylene Films, 2023 (No of Shipments)

The Polyethylene Films Market in the Asia-Pacific has a high accelerated growth potential and increasing demand triggered by factors like urbanization, industrialization, and the large consumer base. The dynamism of the region's economic turf combined with the favour of government reforms and allocation of infrastructure enhance quick expansion of the polyethylene films industry. The countries like Vietnam, India, and China are the main suppliers of the polyethylene (PE) films. Those countries are good at manufacturing and exporting, which enable them to export PE films that are required by the world market.

The Asia-Pacific region, especially China and India, will keep the lead in contributing to the field of shaping the global environment of the polyethylene films market landscape in the forthcoming years.

For Instance,

  • In May, Dow developed and launched a new post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic resin for composite shrink film utilises in Asia Pacific.

North America is home to the largest polyethylene manufacturing operations. The US, in specific, accounts for 21% of world plastic consumption and 19% of the world's plastic output. The survey-based sector information gathered for the American Chemistry Council (ACC) by an impartial third party serves as the foundation for plastic manufacturing and consumption by North America's key markets. The ranging geographic bounds for the ACC data follow the manufacturing sites of the survey respondents e.g., production of polyethylene represents the United States and Canada, but production of polypropylene and polystyrene represents the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Sales of resin and production in North America may involve imports by resin producers. In less than six months, PE prices in the US rose from $1,200 per metric tonne to $2,200. The discontinuity was caused by two main factors: a decrease in the local supply and an absence of practical import alternatives. Considerable PE production was stopped in Texas due to the arctic vortex in February, which resulted in power outages and drained stockpiles. This decreased US producer exports.

LDPE manufacturing is mainly driven by the USA as well as Canada, where countless producers run. These makers make use of innovative innovations as well as manufacturing procedures to fulfill the expanding need for LDPE in The United States and Canada as well as past. The continual need for polyethylene movies is driven by variables such as manufacturing capability developments, technical developments and also the extensive intake of plastic items throughout different markets.

For Instance,

  • In February 2024, Amcor has joined up with Cheer Pack North America and yoghurt manufacturer Stonyfield Organic to introduce the first-ever all-polyethylene (PE) spouted pouch, an ahead of the curve packaging solution that offers a more environmentally friendly choice without sacrificing functionality.

Polyethylene Films Market, DRO

Demand:

  • The strength, tear resistance, and puncture resistance of polyethylene films are widely recognised, which makes materials appropriate for demanding packing conditions. Packaged goods are better safeguarded while transportation, handling and storage, employing outstanding durability films with improved mechanical qualities, such as impact resistance, tensile strength, and barrier performance.

Restraint:

  • Procedure of manufacturing polyethylene film subject to various regulations, guidelines and documentation because it come to the food contact and various industries must take safety precautions, law for disposal.

Opportunity:

  • Offering eco-friendly packaging choices and making investments in sustainable production techniques correspond with consumer expectations for products that respect the environment.

Exploring the Versatility of LDPE Films in Modern Applications

LDPE films possess a wide array of desirable properties thus becoming an all-round application polymeric material. Such a material may be heat-sealed, be chemically inert and have no odor at all. LDPE changes its shape with the effect of temperature increase and this can be beneficial in certain areas. Although it has very low water vapor permeability, LDPE has high gas barrier which makes it proper for ensurance packaging. But at the same time, it is accepted as being oil soluble and odor resistance is poor.

Top Exporter of LDPE Films, 2023 (No of Shipments)

LDPE films are major exporters of China, United States, and India. These countries have on their side expertise in manufacturing as well as well-established export infrastructure channels which enable them to sell LDPE films in the global market at a relatively low cost. Modifications of LDPE can be developed for different uses and specific end products by adjusting its properties. To explain, the low-slip properties are ideal for the safe stacking, at the same time the high- slip properties are suitable for the easy packing into the outer containers. LDPE's cost-effectiveness is the reason for its wide use in production of various products like transparent pouches, bags, papers and boards coatings, laminates as well it is often applied as copolymer component of tubs and trays. LDPE resins that have been developed to be used for specific applications such as dry cleaner bags, bread bags, paper towel overwrap and shipping sacks.

In 2022, LDPE accounted for about 22 % of the total PE demand, with LDPE and LLDPE taking together roughly 56 % of the demand. LLDPE, due to its great characteristics, is widely used across traditional markets for polyethylene materials. It is widely employed in film and fabrication industry with a broad spectrum of uses ranging from agricultural plastics, cling wrap, to bubble wraps and multilayered composite films. The multipurpose nature and adaptability of LDPE and LLDPE enable them to be an essential element in different market sectors, thus increasing the popularity of polyethylene films market.

For Instance,

  • In February 2024, the beginning of large-format polyethylene films being produced in the Smolensk location represents a major milestone for Polymer LLC. Despite this achievement, a huge investment project aimed at building the Polymer-2 industrial complex in the region has come to an end.

Growing Role of Polyethylene Stretch Films in Industry

One of the most rapidly growing packaging items is the polyethylene stretch film, which is defined as a flexible and elastic packaging material that is both widely and efficiently used for keeping and protecting items in transportation and storage. They are normally manufactured from polyethylene or similar materials by an extrusion process, which involves creating thin sheets that also undergo stretching in two directions to deliver higher strength and stretchability characteristics. Wrapping of the materials in this manner yields a bundle that prevents the good from getting dusty, wet and other contaminants. Considering the fact that polyethylene stretch films often face approximately 80% production costs emerging from raw materials, resulting in toughness, tearing, and load stability, we are confident that the integrity of packed objects can be guaranteed. As expected, they are implemented almost everywhere in logistics, retail, as well as manufacturing where they are widely used for palletizing products, bundling and unitizing.

PE Stretch Film is particularly indented for a wrapping of packages, pallets, and boxes in preparation, transit, and delivery. The repetitive process of carrying goods from one means of transportation to another significantly increases the chances of scuffs, dirt, and contaminated surfaces. Although the multiple layers of stretch films can create a tenacious external barrier and can prevent the hardening of the package contents. The demand for polyethylene stretch films is still emerging, mostly because people understand that these films play a significant role in keeping the products safe and secure while in transit. As technology improves, the level of knowledge concerning film stretch grows, and the use of this product is expected to expand in a variety of sectors in the near future.

For Instance,

  • In February 2022, Prominent sustainable packaging manufacturer Coveris has introduced a line of thin, advanced stretch films with at least 30% recycled material to lessen dependency on virgin plastics and fulfil upcoming UK Plastic Packaging Tax regulations.

Rise of Polyethylene Bags Versatile Solutions for Diverse Packaging Needs

Bags feature prominently amongst polyethylene films market players with an existing presence in a wide range of sectors. Particularly, the polyethylene bags are popular with people because of the variety of their uses, their robustness and their low price. These sacks are made by using a polyethylene resin through manufacturing techniques such as extrusion or blown film extrusion. Nowadays in market you can find polyethylene bags of different kinds and dimensions in order to fit different packaging needs. It occupies a broad sector which goes with packaging and transport by providing a shield from dust, moisture and pollutants. Main types of polyethylene bags are grocery bags, garbage bags, zipper bags, and bagging for businesses.

The polyethylene films industry is found to be quite robust, which is a key driver for shopping bags used by consumers that are based on the increasing demand of convenience and the flourishing industrial and online shopping sectors. Furthermore, as the eligible item of recycling of plastic bags is also right with the ecological initiatives, this product sticks out even more.

Polyethylene bags still made-up significant percentage on the global Polyethylene Films Market by performing multitude of tasks in the retail, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and agriculture spheres. With the passage of time, Bag designs, production techniques and brand contact are predicted to be more useful and desirable on the customer ratings.

For Instance,

  • In March 2021, PreZero US Inc., a recycling firm based in Southern California, declared that it has successfully acquired Roplast Industries Inc., a company that produces sustainable polyethylene film and bags.

Multi-Faceted Benefits of Polyethylene Films in Food and Beverage Sector

Food and beverages have become a leading area in the polyethylene films market where polyethylene films are indispensable. For these films, there are many options of packaging which meet different needs and necessities. Polyethylene films are the most popular among food and beverage industries because of their high moisture-resistant, barrier-protective, flexible, and sealable properties. Films may serve to extend the life of these already short-lived products through their protection from moisture, oxygen, and other outside contaminants. They are accountable to ensure food safety and hygiene, making sure that the food is free of contamination during the storage and transportation phases. PE film has high tensile strength, low moisture absorption and dimension stability in different temperature limits. It is useful for plastic packaging for carbonated drinks, bags, snack food wrappers, bottles, jars, and tubs.

Global Distribution of PE Film Manufacturers, 2022 (%)

PE film manufacturers are, generally, located worldwide, with the main regions being USA, Canada, India and China. The growth of the demand of these films in the market depends on the food and beverage industry, as they provide moisture resistance and barrier properties, and hence, drives the growth of the group of manufacturers. This increase in demand for PE films in the food and beverage sector is anticipated to continue in the future. This expansion is fuelled by several factors which include the continuous demand for packaging material that is convenient and sustainable, the rise of e-commerce as a shopping method, and technological developments in the film making industry.

Polyethylene films enable many kinds of innovations in packaging design, for example, those with easy-open features, portion-packaging, and sustainability being increased by means of using recyclable and biodegradable materials. The flexible nature of polyethylene films provides scope for the development of specific packaging to different food and beverages, which in turn has preference to the industry. the food and beverage industry are driven by rising demand which translate to large scale growth for the polyethylene films market with the polyethylene films set to play a critical role in meeting new packaging requirements of this dynamic sector.

For Instance,

  • In February 2024, Floatable polyolefin shrink films are a new offering from packaging maker Innovia Films. suitable for shrink sleeves used in light-sensitive industries like dairy, nutritious goods, vitamins, and cosmetics.

Key Players and Competitive Dynamics in the Polyethylene Films Market

The competitive landscape of the polyethylene films market is dominated by established industry giants such as Amcor PLC, Berry Global Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Avient, Reynolds Consumer Products, Inteplast Group, Novolex Holdings, Sigma Plastics Group, Printpack Holdings Inc., Winpak, Dunmore Corp., Nova Chemicals Corp., SINGHAL Industries Private Limited, Qingdao Kingchuan Packaging, and TECHNOLOGIA JSC. These giants compete with upstart direct-to-consumer firms that use digital platforms to gain market share. Key competitive characteristics include product innovation, sustainable practices, and the ability to respond to changing consumer tastes.

Amcor has two main business segments: Rigid Plastics and Flexible Packaging. It provides services to a wide range of markets in the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Amcor's packaging knowledge meets a range of customer demands, such as pet food, fresh produce, dairy, and snack packaging, as well as beverage containment.

For Instance,

  • In August 2023, Amcor, a leader in the world of building and producing environmentally friendly packaging solutions, revealed that it has reached a deal to buy Phoenix Flexibles. Additionally, the acquisition brings innovative film technology, allowing for the local creation of a greater variety of packaging options that are more sustainable.

Among Berry's illustrious clientele are well-known international brands including Nestle, Procter & Gamble, and Coca-Cola. Berry's growth strategy is further distinguished by its track record of making profitable acquisitions, adding firms such as RPC Group to its portfolio. In addition to a wide variety of straws, drink cups, lids, and films, Berry also offers products specifically designed to meet the needs of the cannabis sector.

For Instance,

  • In February 2024, The Health, Hygiene and Specialties section of Berry Global Group, Inc. has been spun off and merged with Glatfelter Corporation (GLT) as part of a definitive agreement, which would establish a prominent publicly traded firm in the specialised materials sector.

Vacuum skin packaging, food equipment bagging systems, and several protective packaging options are among the various products offered by sealed air. In addition to producing basic medical films, Sealed Air also makes recyclable bubbles, inflated pouches, and cushioning systems for a range of uses, demonstrating its position in the healthcare industry.

For Instance,

  • In February 2022, Sealed Air (SEE) has announced the purchase of Foxpak Flexibles Ltd (Foxpak) through its SEE Ventures strategy, which invests in disruptive technologies and business models to accelerate growth. Foxpak collaborates with major companies to provide highly ornamented packaging solutions such as films, stand-up and spout pouches, and sachets for a wide range of markets, including food retail, pet food, seafood, and snacks.

One of the top suppliers of specialty polymer materials, solutions, and services is Avient. The 8,700 employees of this company are dedicated to environmental responsibility. Their main goals are to lessen the usage of phthalate plasticizers and heavy metals while also encouraging recycling and energy efficiency.

For Instance,

  • In September 2022, Avient introduced the optimised Versaflex™ CF6668 minimal build-up TPE for the protective film's tack layer. It minimises adhesive residue buildup on films used in high-end appliances, household furnishings, building and construction, and automobile applications. With improved heat resistance, it maintains adhesive performance in hot storage settings.

Polyethylene Films Market Player

Polyethylene films leading market players are Amcor PLC, Berry Global Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Avient, Reynolds Consumer Products, Inteplast Group, Novolex Holdings, Sigma Plastics Group, Printpack Holdings Inc., Winpak, Dunmore Corp., Nova Chemicals Corp., SINGHAL Industries Private Limited, Qingdao Kingchuan Packaging, and TECHNOLOGIA JSC.

Historical Data on Plastics in MSW by Weight from Generation to Landfill in Thousands of U.S. Tons (1960-2018)

  • In 1960, the generation of plastics in MSW was 390 thousand U.S. tons, with 390 thousand tons landfilled.
    In 1970, generation increased to 2,900 thousand tons, with 2,900 thousand tons landfilled.
  • By 1980, generation had risen to 6,830 thousand tons, with 20 thousand tons recycled, 140 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 6,670 thousand tons landfilled.
  • In 1990, generation reached 17,130 thousand tons, with 370 thousand tons recycled, 2,980 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 13,780 thousand tons landfilled.
  • By 2000, generation had increased to 25,550 thousand tons, with 1,480 thousand tons recycled, 4,120 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 19,950 thousand tons landfilled.
  • In 2005, generation was 29,380 thousand tons, with 1,780 thousand tons recycled, 4,330 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 23,270 thousand tons landfilled.
  • In 2010, generation reached 31,400 thousand tons, with 2,500 thousand tons recycled, 4,530 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 24,370 thousand tons landfilled.
  • By 2015, generation had increased to 34,480 thousand tons, with 3,120 thousand tons recycled, 5,330 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 26,030 thousand tons landfilled.
  • In 2017, generation was 35,410 thousand tons, with 3,000 thousand tons recycled, 5,590 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 26,820 thousand tons landfilled.
  • Finally, in 2018, generation reached 35,680 thousand tons, with 3,090 thousand tons recycled, 5,620 thousand tons combusted with energy recovery, and 26,970 thousand tons landfilled.

Market Segments

By Material

  • Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
  • High Density Polyethylene Films (HDPE)
  • Linear Low Density Polyethylene Films (LLDPE)
  • Bio Polyethylene Films

By Product Type

  • Stretch Films
  • Shrink Films

By Packaging Type

  • Bags
  • Pouches
  • Boxes
  • Sachets
  • Stick Packs
  • Wraps
  • Labels

By End Use

  • Food & Beverage
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Cosmetics & Personal Care
  • Industrial
  • Household
  • Agriculture
  • Others

By Region

  • North America
  • Asia Pacific
  • Europe
  • LAMEA
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  • Insight Code: 5163
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Published: June 2024
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2022
  • Base Year: 2023
  • Estimated Years: 2024-2033

Meet the Team

Deepa Pandey is a market research expert in packaging with 3+ years of experience, specializing in regulatory compliance, design innovations, sustainable packaging, and delivering insights to enhance safety and efficiency.

Learn more about Deepa Pandey

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The polyethylene films market is witnessing increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Manufacturers are exploring options such as recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable polyethylene films to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, innovations in recycling technologies aim to improve the recyclability of polyethylene films and promote circular economy principles.

Polyethylene films provide effective protection against external factors such as moisture, dust, and contaminants, thereby safeguarding the quality and freshness of packaged products. Whether used for primary packaging or secondary packaging, polyethylene films help prevent spoilage, damage, and tampering during distribution and storage.

In industrial applications, polyethylene films offer versatility, strength, and cost-effectiveness. They are used for wrapping pallets, bundling products, covering machinery, and protecting surfaces during manufacturing processes. Polyethylene films provide reliable protection against scratches, abrasions, and corrosion, ensuring the integrity of industrial components and equipment.

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