Single-use Pouches Market Size, Share, Volume and Demand

Single-use Pouches Market Size to Boost in Coming Years

The global single-use pouches market is accelerating, with forecasts predicting hundreds of millions in revenue growth between 2023 and 2034, powering sustainable infrastructure globally. North America held largest market share in 2023 while Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a fastest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the rapid urbanization. Flexible packaging is growing increasingly popular. It is taking the place of less eco-friendly and more expensive packaging.

Single-use Pouches Market Size and Growth Insights

The global single-use pouches market is booming, poised for a revenue surge into the hundreds of millions from 2023 to 2034, driving a revolution in sustainable transportation.

The single-use pouches market is expected to experience significant growth during the forecast period. The single-use pouches are designed for one-time use. These pouches are made-up of flexible materials like plastic, paper as well as combination of materials and come with features such as zippers, spouts or tear notches to improve its usability. They are commonly utilized across industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and household products, where convenience, portability and lightweight packaging are important. Single-use pouches can be utilized for products such as snack packs, sauces, personal care items and pharmaceutical doses. Due to their lightweight nature, they also reduce the transportation costs as well as environmental impact compared to the traditional rigid packaging.

The increasing demand for convenient, portable packaging in the food and beverage sector coupled with the busy lifestyles that push consumers towards on-the-go products is expected to augment the growth of the single-use pouches market during the forecast period. Furthermore, the advances in the flexible packaging technology like its barrier properties for improving the product shelf life and expansion of the applications of single-use pouches in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and healthcare is also anticipated to augment the growth of the market. Additionally, the urbanization and the growth of the middle class along with the rise in the single-serve packaging are also projected to contribute to the growth of the market in the near future. The global packaging industry size is estimated to grow from USD 1.20 trillion in 2022 to reach an estimated USD 1.58 trillion by 2032, growing at a 3.16% CAGR between 2023 and 2032.

  • It appears that pouches are growing in quantity on the shelves of grocery stores. Pouches are becoming trendier specifically for the wine and water labels. Given that wine has historically been sold in large, quite heavy glass bottles that hold multiple servings, this development seems to be an inevitable move for the wine industry. For individual customers who prefer single portions or convenient on-the-go packaging, pouches are turning to be one of the best options.
  • A pouch's easy-to-use form makes it ideal for a wide range of products. Flexible pouches end up being more ergonomic than bottles and cans as they allow customers more control on the product being used when they rely on their hands' pressure. Additionally, unlike cans, many pouches have a twist-off resealable cap and a spout, which makes them practically mess-free.
  • Flexible packaging is growing increasingly popular. It is taking the place of less eco-friendly and more expensive packaging. Compared to the rigid types of packing, it is less expensive and has a smaller carbon footprint. These characteristics increase its attractiveness towards consumers all across the world.
  • Stand-up pouches continue to gain popularity. Its versatility helps designers to develop precise, attractive designs that make the product offerings stand out even though the shelves are filled with other products, which is why retailers prefer this packaging. Unfilled pouches have less of an impact on the environment as they can be transported and stored flat and take up less room.
  • North America held largest market share in 2023. This is due to the increasing awareness of environmental sustainability, the growing demand for lightweight and durable packaging along with the rising consumer need for convenience.
  • Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a fastest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the rapid urbanization, a growing middle class population and increasing demand for packaged goods.

Market Drivers

Consumer Demand for Convenience and E-commerce Growth

The consumer demand for convenience is anticipated to augment the growth of the single-use pouches market during the forecast period. Many consumers feel short on time due to the constant demands of the modern lifestyles, which leads them to look for convenient as well as portable products that are compatible with their busy schedules. Fast, on-the-go products are becoming growing in popularity with working drinkers, specifically young adults, who are under pressure to meet the demands of more demanding schedules. As per the NACS/Coca-Cola Retailing Research Council report, almost 80% of the food and drink that is consumed at C-store is on the go. For the customers who are constantly on the go, retailers should provide a variety of single-serve, portable snacks and drinks. Single-use pouches are designed with features such as resealable zippers that help the consumers to eat the food on the go while also having the option of easily storing the leftovers. These pouches are extremely portable and make them appropriate for travelers and working professionals who value convenience over bulkier packing options. 

Furthermore, the constant growth of the e-commerce is also likely to drive the demand for single-use pouches. The online retail sales of the U.S. for second quarter of 2024 reached $291.6 billion, up by 1.3% (± 0.7) over the 1st quarter of 2024, as per the data by the Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce.  Total retail sales in the Q2 2024 were $1,826.9 billion, a 0.5% increase as compared to the Q1 of 2024. While total retail sales climbed up by 2.1 percent (± 0.4) during the same period, the 2nd quarter 2024 e-commerce projection grew by 6.7% (± 1.2) over the second quarter 2023. In 2024, e-commerce sales contributed to 16.0 percent of overall sales in the 2nd quarter.  The versatility and affordability of single-use pouches make them a popular choice for companies trying to improve their e-commerce operations while providing a productive, customer-focused experience, specifically as online shopping continues to grow.

Market Restraints

Environmental Concerns over Single-Use Plastics

Plastic has improved society in many ways and changed the daily living. However, two-thirds of the 430 million tonnes of the plastic that humans generate each year ends up as waste. An environmental disaster has been produced by a dependency to transient plastics. Approximately 23 million tons of the plastic debris enters aquatic environments annually, contaminating rivers, lakes, and oceans. About four percent of all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide are produced by the manufacture, consumption and disposal of plastics. According to the most severe goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement, carbon emissions from the manufacture, consumption and disposal of traditional plastics derived from fossil fuels may contribute to about one-fifth of the global emission of greenhouse gases by 2040. Plastic is not biodegradable like other materials are. When discarded, it accumulates in the atmosphere until it comes to a crisis point as it may require up to 1,000 years to decompose.

Single-use pouches are not recyclable due to their multi-layered structure, which combines different plastics or materials to improve the durability and shelf life. This combination, however, complicates the recycling processes and limits the pouch’s sustainability. Furthermore, the pressure to reduce the plastic waste is prompting governments to implement regulations and policies that restrict the single-use plastic packaging. For example, in April 2024, the European Parliament adopted new EU packaging regulations to support sustainability and reduce the waste. Targets consist of reducing packaging by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040, with a focus on plastic waste. Also, ninety percent of the single-use drinking containers made-up of plastic and metal (up to three litres) must be gathered separately by 2029. This growing opposition to single-use plastics is anticipated to limit the market growth in the absence of eco-friendly alternatives.

Market Opportunities

New Product Launches with Recyclable Materials

The new product launches featuring recyclable materials is likely to create opportunity for the growth of the single-use pouches market in the years to come. This is owing to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products and increasing regulatory pressures. Thus, most of the companies are bringing recyclable packaging as it helps companies to meet these expectations, improve their brand image and gain a competitive edge by demonstrating environmental responsibility. For instance:

  • In March 2023, the ground-breaking proof of concept for TotalEnergies and COLINES' Unlaminated Stand-Up Pouch, a totally recyclable PE solution reportedly designed for food-contact applications, was unveiled. In addition to reducing packing thickness, the mono-material pouch is anticipated to be a recyclable substitute for multi-material films. With the ultimate goal of introducing higher-quality feedstock to the market, this partnership is consistent with recent advancements in the provision of packaging products that are completely mechanically recyclable.
  • In October 2022, Reckitt and Mondi announced a collaboration to introduce packaging made from paper for the laundry detergent brand Finish. The goal is to cut down on approximately 2,000 tonnes of plastic annually, or 50 million one-liter bottles. 75% of the latest Finish stand-up pouch is made-up of paper, which is claimed to have been obtained responsibly. When the deployment is finished, the packaging is anticipated to produce 15% less CO2 over its life cycle than its predecessors due to its lower plastic content, making it more recyclable.
  • In September 2021, Mespack and Hoffer Plastics collaborated with UFlex to provide a sustainable alternative that will simplify the recycling process associated with hot-fill pouches. Each of the three giants have collaborated to create a turnkey solution that brings many sustainable brands one step closer to achieving their sustainability objectives by enabling complete recyclability of hot-fill pouches with their new mono-polymer structure and spout caps.

These launches could spur innovations in material science and create affordable recyclable materials that will maintain the durability and aesthetic appeal of the conventional plastic pouches. Such innovations can also reduce the manufacturing costs over time, making recyclable pouches more accessible across different market segments.

Key Segment Analysis

Product Type Segment Analysis Preview

The stand-up pouches segment held considerable market share in 2023. For companies looking to give their packaging more variety, stand-up pouches prove to be an ideal option. The stand-up pouch that has been gaining popularity in the past few years, currently benefits thousands of product varieties. This kind of package design can be utilized in the food and beverage, medical, cosmetic and clothing industries, making it extremely adaptable for the consumers all over the world. Furthermore, since these pouches are portable and lightweight, they minimize the cost of the transportation for each order while also minimizing the carbon emissions by delivering multiple shipments at once. Pouches are an ideal way to lighten the load for firms who manage their own distribution and logistics. They use only a portion of the package space for storage when they are folded. These all factors are expected to contribute to the segmental growth of the market.

End-Use Segment Analysis Preview

The food & beverages segment held the largest market share in 2023. This is attributable to the growing preference for ready-to-eat snacks, single-serve drinks and quick-preparation meal options. Furthermore, the expansion of the e-commerce and online food delivery platforms is also likely to support the segmental growth of the market within the estimated timeframe. Additionally, the rising disposable incomes and the expansion of the cold storage facilities as well as the rise in health consciousness has spurred interest in the organic, low-calorie and fortified food and beverage options and this is also likely to augment the growth of the segment within the estimated timeframe.

Regional Insights

North America held considerable market share in 2023. This is due to the busy lifestyles and a preference for on-the-go products across the region. For instance, as per the 2024 Food & Health Survey by International Food Information Council, At least one snack is consumed daily by 74% of the Americans. In addition, more than fifty percent (56%) of Americans eat smaller meals or snack instead of conventional meals. Furthermore, the Increasing consumer and regulatory focus on sustainability is also expected to contribute to the regional growth of the market. Additionally, the advancements in the high-barrier films and resealable features and flexibility in pouch design is further anticipated to support the growth of the market in the region.

Asia Pacific is likely to grow at fastest CAGR during the forecast period. This is owing to the rapidly urbanization and the rising middle class in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. Furthermore, the rapid expansion of e-commerce and food delivery services is also likely to contribute to the regional growth of the market. As per the data by the International Trade Administration, in 2020, China's online retail sales climbed to about $2 trillion. Within three years, revenues are expected to exceed $4 trillion. In China, there are approximately 710 million internet users. Within four years, this number is expected to climb to one billion. Additionally, the growth in the processed and packaged food sector is also anticipated to support the growth of the market in the region in the near future.

Recent Developments by Key Market Players

  • In February 2024: Amcor created all-polyethylene (PE) spouted pouch in collaboration with Cheer Pack North America and Stonyfield Organic. This innovative partnership provides a more eco-friendly packaging choice without sacrificing functionality. The new pouch, which has an improved design, takes the place of Stonyfield Organic's prior multi-layered packaging for their YoBaby chilled yogurt. The Vizi cap, supplied by Cheer Pack North America, fulfills the package, while the base of the pouch is made of Amcor's AmPrima Plus, a completely PE film made for maximum recyclability.
  • In January 2024: In partnership with the Fresh-Lock team at Presto Products, the API Group and its sister company Accredo Packaging developed a unique flexible stand-up pouch that uses over 50% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) material suitable for food packaging throughout the package. Pushing the boundaries of what is feasible in food packaging with recycled content, the combination of Fresh-Lock's Child-Guard slider technology with the AccredoFlex line of recycled content films yields an unparalleled amount of recyclable material in both the film and the zipper closure.

Single-use Pouches Market Companies

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Single-use Pouches Market Players

Some of the key players in single-use pouches market include Amcor plc, Sealed Air Corporation, Berry Global Group Inc., Bemis Company Inc., Winpak Ltd., Coveris Holdings S.A., Ardagh Group S.A., Tetra Pak International S.A., Eagle Flexible Packaging, IMPAK Corporation, and Duropack Limited, among others.

Single-use Pouches Market Segments

By Material

  • Plastic
  • Paper
  • Others

By Product Type

  • Flat Pouches
  • Stand-up Pouches
  • Spouted Pouches
  • Others

By End-Use

  • Food & Beverages
  • Healthcare
  • Personal Care & Cosmetics
  • Home-care
  • Others

By Region

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • Europe
    • U.K.
    • France
    • Germany
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • South-East Asia
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa
    • GCC Countries
    • South Africa
    • Rest of Middle East & Africa
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  • Insight Code: 5333
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Published: October 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 global single-use pouches market is booming, poised for a revenue surge into the hundreds of millions from 2023 to 2034, driving a revolution in sustainable transportation.

North America region leads the global single-use pouches market.

Amcor plc, Sealed Air Corporation, Berry Global Group Inc., Bemis Company Inc., Winpak Ltd., Coveris Holdings S.A., Ardagh Group S.A., Tetra Pak International S.A., Eagle Flexible Packaging, IMPAK Corporation, and Duropack Limited, among others are the prominent players operating in the single-use pouches market.