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Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Strategic Growth, Innovation & Investment Trends

According to market projections, the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines industry is expected to grow from USD 2.78 billion in 2024 to USD 5.32 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 6.75%.

Last Updated: 20 March 2025 Category: Others Packaging Insight Code: 5495 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Principal Consultant

Deepa Pandey

Reviewed By

Aditi Shivarkar

Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Advanced Technologies & Innovations

The global vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market size reached US$ 2.78 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit around US$ 5.32 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 6.75% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The key players operating in the market are focused on adopting inorganic growth strategies like acquisition and merger to develop advance technology for manufacturing vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines has estimated to drive the global vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market over the forecast period.

Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Size 2023 – 2034

Major Key Insights of the Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market

  • Asia Pacific dominated the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024.
  • North America is expected to grow at a significant rate in the market during the forecast period.
  • By material source, the bags & pouches segment registered its dominance over the global vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024.
  • By end user, the food & beverages segment dominated the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024.

Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Overview

Vertical form fill seal (VFFS) machines are automated packaging machines that fill, form, and seal flexible pouches or bags in a vertical orientation. They are commonly used in food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods industries for efficient, high-speed packaging. The vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines works by film unwinding, bag formation, vertical sealing, product filling, and horizontal sealing & cutting.  The advantages of vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines are high-speed & continuous operation, versatile packaging, cost-effective, and compact design.

Technological Advancements

Automation and Industry 4.0: There's a strong shift towards integrating automation and Industry 4.0 technologies in vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines, enhancing operational efficiency and real-time monitoring capabilities.

Sustainability Initiatives

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Manufacturers are increasingly adopting sustainable packaging solutions, including biodegradable and recyclable materials, in response to environmental concerns and consumer demand.

Customization and Flexibility

Versatile Packaging Solutions: The industry is focusing on providing flexible and customizable packaging options to cater to diverse product requirements across various sectors.

Hygiene and Health Standards

Enhanced Sanitation: There is an increased emphasis on health and hygiene standards in packaging, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries, driving the demand for advanced VFFS machines.

Remote Monitoring and Digitalization

Smart Manufacturing: The integration of digitalization and remote monitoring features in VFFS machines is facilitating smart manufacturing practices, allowing for predictive maintenance and improved productivity.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Seal Machines

The AI integration improves the vertical form-fill seal (VFFS) machines industry by reducing the downtime of the manufacturing process and giving real time insights. AI-powered sensors monitor machine components in real time. Predicts equipment failures before they occur, preventing unexpected breakdowns. The vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines reduces downtime and maintenance costs by scheduling repairs proactively.

AI-driven computer vision systems can inspect seal integrity, packaging accuracy, and product weight. The artificial intelligence integration identifies defects and inconsistencies in packaging instantly. The artificial intelligence integration reduces waste by ensuring only high-quality products are packaged.  AI algorithms analyze machine speed, temperature, and material flow to adjust settings automatically. The artificial intelligence integration ensures consistent sealing, filling accuracy, and material efficiency.  The artificial intelligence helps in customization of shape, size and material usage based on product requirements. Enables automated recipe changes for different products, improving machine flexibility.

Lintyco's vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines leverage AI-driven intelligence to optimize performance, reduce errors, and adapt to changing production demands. These machines are designed for energy efficiency and durability, aligning with global eco-conscious trends. Harpak-ULMA offers smart, connected packaging platforms that reduce the complexity, time, and cost of building or extending automated packaging solutions. Their VFFS machines integrate AI and IoT technologies to enhance operational efficiency and adaptability.

  • In May 2023, Syntegon launched new vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines compatible with various food applications. These machines are designed to provide customers with safe, flexible, and efficient packaging lines, incorporating advanced technologies for improved performance.

Driver

Expansion of Retail Sector & E-commerce

Expansion of online food & grocery delivery services increases demand for flexible packaging. Need for secure, lightweight, and tamper-proof packaging in e-commerce logistics. Retailers and e-commerce businesses require lightweight, durable, and tamper-proof packaging to protect products during transit. Vertical form-fill-seal machines provide customizable pouch designs that improve product safety and shelf appeal. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online grocery stores are expanding their ready-to-eat, frozen, and snack food offerings.

E-commerce businesses need cost-efficient, high-speed packaging to handle large order volumes. Retail chains are increasing in-house brands, requiring customized packaging solutions. Vertical form-fill-seal machines allow retailers to package diverse product lines efficiently with private-label branding. Brands are adopting NFC tags, QR codes, and smart packaging for tracking & consumer engagement.

Growth in Global Retail Sector (USD Billion)

  • According to the data published by the National Grocers Associations, in 2025, the grocery delivery business is expected to generate US$940.96 billion in revenue. In 2025, the retail delivery market is expected to reach a value of US$729.83 billion. Comparatively speaking, the United States will generate the most revenue (US$327.91 billion in 2025). In 2025, the grocery delivery market's average revenue per user (ARPU) is anticipated to reach US$546.34. By 2029, there will likely be 2.2 billion users in the grocery delivery sector. In 2025, there will be 22.0% user penetration in the grocery delivery market.

Restraint

Complex Maintenance & Operational Challenges

The key players operating in the market are facing issue due to complex maintenance & operational challenges which has estimated to restrict the growth of the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in the near future. Vertical form-fill-seal machines require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation. Technical expertise is needed for troubleshooting, increasing training costs and dependency on skilled labor. Rising costs of packaging films (plastics, paper, biopolymers) impact machine profitability. Supply chain disruptions affect the availability of packaging materials. Many businesses in emerging economies still rely on manual or semi-automatic packaging due to cost constraints. Lack of awareness and infrastructure slows automation adoption in smaller industries.

Opportunity

Rising Demand for Flexible Packaging

Increasing preference for lightweight, space-saving, and cost-effective flexible packaging in food, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and personal care products. Rising e-commerce sales require durable and protective packaging solutions. The increased demand for the flexible packaging has estimated to create lucrative opportunity for the growth of the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in the near future.

Rapid urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles in Latin America, Asia-Pacific, and Africa are boosting demand for packaged foods and household products. Local businesses are investing in automated packaging solutions to improve efficiency.

Bags & Pouches Segment Led the Market in 2024

The bags & pouches segment held a dominant presence in the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024. Vertical form-fill-seal machines can produce hundreds of pouches per minute, making them ideal for high-volume packaging. Vertical orientation allows for efficient floor space utilization in manufacturing plants. The manufacturing of bags and pouches use less material than rigid packaging, reducing production and transportation costs. The bags and pouches packaging suitable for pharmaceuticals, beverages, food, personal care, pet food, and household products. Pouches have flexible design which allows for easy stacking and storage, taking up less space than rigid containers.

Food & Beverages Segment to Show Significant Growth in the Upcoming Years

The food & beverages segment registered its dominance over the global vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024.  The food & beverages company use VFFS machines for packaging grains, snacks, cereals, frozen foods, bakery products, and powdered products. The usage of the vertical form-fill-seal machines ensures product freshness, extends shelf life, and provides portion control. The matrix packaging machinery offers a range of vertical form-fill-seal machines equipment known for durability and efficiency to pack coffee, food and produce sectors. Formerly Bosch Packaging Technology, Syntegon provides advanced vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines known for speed, flexibility, and hygiene for confectionery, food and pharmaceutical packaging.

Asia’s Rapid Industrialization: Countries to Sustain Dominance

Asia Pacific region dominated the global vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market in 2024. Growing pharmaceutical production in India, China, and South Korea boosts demand for tamper-proof and hygienic packaging. Asia-Pacific is a global manufacturing hub with lower labor costs and easy access to raw materials. Countries like China and India offer cost-effective machine production and exports.

The China vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market shows significant growth as the online purchase increases the demand for sustainable packaging in the region. Furthermore, the industries in China are making strategic moves to growth the packaging industry. For instance, in September 2024, Duravant LLC, a worldwide provider of engineering equipment and automation solutions to the food processing, packaging, and material handling industries, announces Denver Lu's appointment to the role of Managing Director, Duravant China Co Ltd. The news comes after the business recently invested in opening a local sales and service branch in Suzhou, China.

With these investments, Duravant is increasing its dedication to growing its local sales and service infrastructure in order to better meet their customers' growing automation needs. Duravant has a long history of assisting international clients operating in China. Due to strong economic growth and rising wages, China is set to overtake all other consumer markets in the world, according to Petros Diamantides, Chief Qperating Officer, Emerging Markets at Duravant.

Traditional industries like food, agriculture, and logistics are changing dramatically as the nation's manufacturing emphasis moves from quantity to quality and from speed to efficiency. The Duravant LLC company observes enormous potential in the Chinese market to expand alliances with both local Chinese strong brands and international clients.

North America’s Growing Consumption Packed Food to Support Rapid Growth

North America region is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate in the vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market during the forecast period. Rising demand for convenience snacks, foods, frozen meals, and ready-to-eat products in North America boosts the need for efficient packaging solutions. Growing consumption of single-serve and portion-controlled packaging favours the adoption of Vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines. The surge in online grocery shopping and direct-to-consumer brands creates demand in North America for secure and flexible packaging. North America is shifting towards biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable materials.

The U.S. vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) machines market is estimated to grow at considerable rate due to growing demand for sustainable packaging and food and beverages industry. U.S. market expansion is also supported by the region's emphasis on automation and cost effectiveness. In the competitive landscape of the United States, developments in sustainable packaging materials are also gaining popularity and meeting customer needs for eco-friendly solutions.

Europe’s Safety & Quality Production to Project Notable Growth

Europe region is seen to grow at a notable rate in the foreseeable future.  Notable growth in the European region is ascribed to strict laws governing the quality and safety of products. Additionally, this market is heavily influenced by the pharmaceutical industry's need for safe, hygienic packaging. Additionally, consumers' preferences for eco-friendly items are in line with the growing trend towards sustainable packaging solutions. Furthermore, technological advancements that increase productivity and decrease waste are also fueling the expansion of form-fill-seal machines in Europe.

The strong industrial base of Germany, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries, fuels the need for premium packaging solutions. Additionally, the adoption of eco-friendly packaging technology is encouraged by Germany's dedication to sustainability. Additionally, the emphasis on efficiency and automation in production processes makes form-fill-seal machines even more appealing to producers.

Global Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Players

Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Companies

  • Robert Bosch Packaging Technology GmbH
  • ISHIDA CO., LTD.
  • PKT s.r.l.
  • WeighPack Systems Inc.
  • Ixapack Global
  • Imanpack Packaging & Eco Solutions SpA
  • Goglio S.p.A.
  • Saimo Electric Co., Ltd
  • ULMA Packaging, S.Coop.
  • Propac Industrial Limited
  • Nichrome Packaging Solutions
  • M. Packaging Limited
  • Rockwell Automation
  • Tokyo Automatic Machinery Works, Ltd.
  • Rovema North America, Inc.

Latest Announcements by Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Industry Leaders

  • According to Andrew Green, manager of Ishida Europe's snacks business unit, the sector is still very competitive and driven by continuous advancements in products and packaging. The new INSPIRA Box Motion from Ishida Europe was created to give producers a new degree of automation and efficiency while enabling them to continuously adjust to the most recent market trends. This reduces the possibility of human error and contributes to the reliable production of high-quality bags while lowering expenses and boosting revenue.

New Advancements in Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Industry

  • In July 2024, Syntegon, machine manufacturing company revealed the introduction of the SVX VFFS series for food applications. At Interpack 2023, Syntegon is showcasing two of its four new vertical form, fill, seal (VFFS) machines for a range of food applications together with a second package for its cloud-based monitoring solution. The company hopes to provide clients a packaging line that is secure, adaptable, and effective. Basic tubular bag types are compatible with the SVX Agile, and it is said that modules for corner sealed bags, three-sided seal bags, doy-style, and doy-style zip bags may be added. Higher output rates for bag types like pillow, gusseted, and block bottom bags are said to result from the SvX Duplex's two film lanes on a single 1,220 mm wide frame.

Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) Machines Market Segments

By Packaging Type

  • Cartons
  • Bags & Pouches
  • Bottles
  • Blisters
  • Trays & Cups
  • Other

By End User

  • Food & Beverages
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Chemical & Fertilizers
  • Cosmetics & Personal Care
  • Other

By Region

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Sweden
    • Denmark
    • Norway
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Thailand
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico
    • Argentina
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)
    • South Africa
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Kuwait
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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

A Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) machine is an automated packaging system that forms, fills, and seals flexible pouches or bags in a vertical orientation. These machines are widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries due to their high-speed, efficient, and cost-effective packaging capabilities.

The product types which can a vertical form-fill-seal machines handle are viscous, powder, liquid, granular.

Packaging Industry Association of India (PIAI), Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India, Packaging Manufacturers Association, Flexible Packaging Association, UCIMA - Italian Packaging Machinery Manufacturers and Contract Packaging & Manufacturing Association.