Flow Wrap Packaging Market By Material Type (Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyvinyl Chloride, Coated Paper, Uncoated Paper, Aluminum Foil, Biodegradable Films, Bio-based Films), By Machine Type (Horizontal Flow Wrapping Machines, Vertical Flow Wrapping Machines, Servo-driven Flow Wrappers, Rotary Motion Flow Wrappers, Box Motion Flow Wrappers), By Packaging Type (Pillow Packs, Gusseted Packs, Fin Seal Packs, Lap Seal Packs, Resealable Flow Wraps, Stick Packs), by Technology (Conventional Mechanical Flow Wrap, Servo-Based Systems, Modified Atmosphere Packaging, Vacuum Flow Wrapping, Smart Packaging Machines), By Application (Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care & Cosmetics, Consumer Goods, Industrial Products, Others), and By End User (Food & Beverage Manufacturers, Pharmaceutical Companies, Personal Care & Cosmetic Brands, Household Product Manufacturers, Retail & Supermarket Chains, Contract Packaging Companies, E-commerce & Logistics Providers), Global Market Size, Segmental Analysis, Regional Overview, Company Share Analysis, Leading Company Profiles and Market Forecast, 2025–2035.

---

What trends will shape the Flow Wrap Packaging Market in the coming years?

The Flow Wrap Packaging Market accounted for USD 22.53 Billion in 2024 and USD 24.31 Billion in 2025 is expected to reach USD 52.11 Billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of around 7.92% between 2025 and 2035. The Flow Wrap Packaging Market is ready to be disrupted, and a distinct shift in a more sustainable direction is a reality since bio-films, compostable papers, and environmentally friendly plastics are becoming increasingly popular to satisfy consumer and legislative demands. The next generation of smart, IoT-enabled device connectivity machines, which include sensors, RFID/QR codes, and blockchain-based use of traceability, is also emerging and will ultimately be used to support traceability throughout the entire supply chain.

The speed of production is being boosted by automation, AI-based solutions, and, in particular, cobots, digital twins, and predictive maintenance, which makes the industry less dependent on labor. The tailored and consumer-focused packaging, such as easy-opening options, reuse opportunities, and attractive appearance, also remains the driver of the differentiation. Performance of packaging is also augmented through barrier technologies and the integration of MAP, which increases the freshness and shelf life of the products. In the meantime, APAC has emerging markets, which show healthy growth because of the overwhelming demand for convenience foods and medications.

What do industry experts say about Flow Wrap Packaging Market trends?

“Sustainability is no longer an option—it's a mandate. We're investing heavily in mono-material flow wrap solutions that are both recyclable and cost-efficient.”

• Jean-Marc Galvez, President of Global Packaging, Amcor.

“We are seeing a significant shift toward automation and smart packaging systems. Customers demand machines that offer flexibility, remote diagnostics, and data analytics for preventive maintenance.”

• Norbert Sieber, Managing Director, Theegarten-Pactec GmbH.

Which segments and geographies does the report analyze?

What are the key drivers and challenges shaping the Flow Wrap Packaging Market?

Is growing plastic pollution increasing demand for biodegradable packaging alternatives? 

The global Flow Wrap Packaging Market is also showing tremendous improvements due to the increasing plastic pollution globally, which is stimulating the need to use biodegradable packaging options. Established government statistics evidence a total yearly production of about 300 million tons of plastic, but this amount is hardly recycled well, with just about 9% being recycled, with a major part of the whole amount going towards the deterioration of the environment. This kind of alarming trend has enhanced the widespread usage of starch-based and compostable flow wrap options in many industries.

Regulatory authorities and governments are enforcing stricter policies to make single-use plastics extinct, and manufacturers are lured to invest in alternatives that are friendly to the environment. There is also a growing trend of consumers who are increasingly preferring sustainable packaging that does not have so many implications for the ecological system. Biodegradable flow wrap solutions are based on the balance between functionality and environmental consciousness and, therefore, can be used with food and personal care products and retail. Organizations are developing to enhance the durability and co-existence of such material in shelf life. Further insights lead to the idea that more brands implement biodegradable wraps in the framework of their ESG initiatives. The trend is transforming the market forces and enhancing long-term sustainability efforts.

Are consumer preferences shifting toward natural and renewable packaging sources?

The global Flow Wrap Packaging Market focuses on consumers and perceives an increased preference of consumers for natural and renewable sources of packaging. Confirmed statistics show that around 74% of customers will be happy to pay extra for environmentally friendly packaging, and close to 60-70% of customers will be inclined to seek eco-friendly products. This tendency is linked to the rising environmental concerns and the need to have fewer services and goods made of plastic-based materials. Consequently, businesses are putting more emphasis on biodegradable, compostable, and flow wrap made of paper. The renewed effort to use renewable resources in the production of packaging is also being helped by the regulators. Such shifting tastes are compelling brands to redesign products on the basis of sustainability.

The latest trends in packaging are carbon footprints, shelf appeal, and functionality issues. Purchasing behavior is also being informed by the need to be transparent in sourcing and materials. Finally, this transition is helping to turn the flow wrap packaging industry into a less non-sustainable and more customer-oriented sector.

Are production costs higher compared to conventional plastic packaging options?

The global Flow Wrap Packaging Market experiences the problem of high costs when using lightweight alternatives in packaging, since manufacturing processes using such polymers are more expensive compared to traditional plastic packs. This is largely attributed to the fact that it makes use of bio-based raw materials such as starch, which are costly and not as readily obtainable in quantity. Also, the production procedure has manual items and stricter quality standards, which also add to the expense of operating.

In contrast to petroleum plastic products, biodegradable materials do not have long-established supply chains and economies of scale. It is also the case that some biodegradable films must have further layers or coatings added to them to keep up with the barrier quality of the plastic, which adds further complexity and cost. Transport and storage of these materials usually require a controlled environment, which brings additional logistical problems. These shortcomings notwithstanding, increasing regulatory support and customer demand are factors that are helping to incur escalating costs. The costs are likely to go down as the market matures and enhances efficiency through innovation. Comprehensively, a premium on sustainability is one of the constraining factors, which is narrowing with the advancement of the industry.

Is demand rising for eco-friendly solutions in food delivery packaging?

There is a trend of increased demand for eco-friendly solutions in the packaging of food delivery in the global Flow Wrap Packaging Market. The consumers have increasingly demanded sustainability in their take-out orders and online orders, where the plastic wraps have taken the stage to the use of compostable and biodegradable wraps. According to the restaurant and food delivery services, they are fighting back through collaborations with eco-friendly packaging providers to launch plant-based flow wraps.

Regulations in most municipalities are curbing the use of single-use plastics, increasing the interest in natural-material packaging all the more. Such a change would also correspond to brand-related pursuits that aim to create zero waste and a minimal carbon footprint. Sustainable certification and the open sourcing of materials are also gaining popularity with companies and customers. In addition, the bio-based films are improving barrier and shelf life; thus, they can be used in hot, fresh, and multiple orders. Lastly, sustainable packaging is supposed to be widely accepted in the food delivery industry across the world as production volumes increase and raw materials become cheaper to deal with.

Are innovations enabling better performance in flexible starch-based packaging materials?

The Flow Wrap Packaging Market in the global markets is heating, an advantage of innovations that improve the performance of flexible starch-based packaging materials. New recipes, which are mixtures of starch with natural polymers, enhance elasticity and tensile strength, thereby proving durable in transportation and handling situations. Improved barrier coatings are increasing protection against moisture and oxygen, thus preserving the food's freshness.

Researchers are also taking advantage of nano-enabled additives to increase their thermal stability and avoid grease penetration. Moreover, there is more development in the extrusion methods to make the films thinner but stronger, which consumes less material. Biodegradable wraps can now be compatible and run on regular flow wrap machines. Recycling or composting of these films is becoming cost-effective, with end-of-life issues being considered. Such technological innovations render more use of starch-based alternatives suitable for mainstream packaging. Currently, the pace of its adoption of eco-friendly flow wrapping is picking up in industries as the performance differences become scant.

What are the key market segments in the Flow Wrap Packaging Market industry?

Based on the material type, the Flow Wrap Packaging Market is classified into polypropylene (PP), soaring high with its high clarity, pliability, and cost-effectiveness properties. Polyethylene (PE) and its combination with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are becoming popular because of their excellent barrier properties in terms of food and pharmaceutical applications. Aluminum foil is much favored as a high barrier requirement, especially for sensitive products that need protection against moisture and light.

The market has been experiencing increased demand for coated and uncoated paper as the world moves towards greener and more biodegradable solutions. PVC is being phased out, albeit slowly, regarding environmental concerns. In the meantime, the bio-based and biodegradable films market is experiencing strong growth due to environmentally friendly consumers and governmental regulations. The total material composition is shifting to recyclables and composts to create bodies that would recycle or compost without affecting the performance of the packaging.

Based on the application, the Flow Wrap Packaging Market is classified into Pharmaceuticals is a very burgeoning branch, and tablets, capsules, and medical devices are manufactured in flow wraps because this packaging is tamper-evident and hygienic. Personal care and cosmetics also play a great role here, with more single-use sachet packaging of products such as soaps and wipes getting increasingly wrapped in hygienic wrapping.

Flow wrap is efficient when it comes to packaging stationery, toys, and batteries; thus, it will be beneficial to the consumer goods segment. Flow wrap makes transportation safe and clean, and will not be damaged in industrial products. The boom of e-commerce and retail activities has even been widening the range of their application since more attention is paid to both beauty and safety. In general, multiple applications make up the stable growth of the market.

Which regions are leading the Flow Wrap Packaging Market, and why?

The North America Flow Wrap Packaging Market is growing due to the presence of a highly developed manufacturing infrastructure, a strong desire of consumers to buy convenient and hygienically packed products, and the broad use of automated packaging technologies. The packaged food industry is large, and single-serve and on-the-go products are on the increase in the U.S., which, thus, dominates the regional market.

They are driving manufacturers towards using environmentally safe flow wraps, given the growing interest in sustainable and recyclable materials. Also, the expansion of the e-commerce and retail chains market contributes to the increase in the demand for packaging formats that are attractive and protective. The quality regulations and technological innovation keep promoting the maturity of the region and its competitiveness in the market.

The Asia-Pacific Flow Wrap Packaging Market is the fastest growing, due to the rapid urbanization, growing middle-income population, and increased consumption of packaged foods and personal care products. Countries such as China, India, and Indonesia are beginning to experience considerable growth in the retail industry and e-mail business systems, boosting the need for low-cost and effective packaging solutions. The pharmaceutical and healthcare industry, which is thriving in the region, is also adding to the increase in the use of flow wraps, particularly the ones that are hygienic and tamper-proof.

Further, the increased awareness of food safety and shelf-life extension is motivating the move towards the higher usage of feature-rich flow wrap technologies. The process of innovation in environmentally friendly packaging materials is also gaining momentum because of government-sponsored domestic manufacturing and sustainability measures. Overall, Asia-Pacific is a huge potential market for expansion in terms of various end-use applications.

What does the competitive landscape of the Flow Wrap Packaging Market look like?

Competitive environment the Flow Wrap Packaging Market presents a competitive environment given the existence of the major global players, which have continually invested resources in product innovation, automation, and sustainable packaging activities, such as Amcor, Sonoco, Sealed Air, Winpak, and Constantia Flexibles. Such firms are moving toward making recyclable, compostable, and high-barrier materials to catch up with consumer and regulatory needs. Amor recently launched AmFiber Performance Paper, a flow wrap paper that can be recycled and combines a reduction in plastic content with a higher level of product protection. On the same note, PAC Machinery has introduced the FW 650SI flow wrapper, which facilitates paper-based packaging as evidence of innovation in the replacement of plastics.

Cox & Co. did not lag behind needs, as they have initiated entirely paper-based chocolate wrappers towards sustainability. There is also the integration of smart and servo-driven technologies by the players to ensure speed, flexibility, and precision. Also, local firms are becoming more advanced through investments in new film technology and can also enhance the packaging formats to suit their own needs. Competition is increasing due to the emerging significance of automation, digital control systems, and machines that are energy-efficient. Generally, the key issues behind competitive dynamics in this dynamic market are sustainability, integration of technology, and product differentiation.

Flow Wrap Packaging Market, Company Shares Analysis, 2024

To explore in-depth analysis in this report - Request Sample Report

Which recent mergers, acquisitions, or product launches are shaping the Flow Wrap Packaging Market industry?

• In April 2025, Amcor completed a state-of-the-art coating facility in Selangor, Malaysia, featuring advanced air-knife coating and water-based systems to boost healthcare packaging capacity in Asia-Pacific.
• In March 2025, at the Flexible Packaging Association Awards, Amcor’s Moda vacuum packaging system and Once Upon a Farm CHEERCircle PE pouch received Silver awards for sustainability and innovation.
• In January 2025, Amcor Flexibles launched “AmSecure”, a recyclable APET material for trays and rollstock in pharmaceutical and medical device packaging.

Report Coverage:

By Material Type

• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Coated Paper
• Uncoated Paper
• Aluminum Foil
• Biodegradable Films
• Bio-based Films

By Machine Type

• Horizontal Flow Wrapping Machines (HFFS)
• Vertical Flow Wrapping Machines (VFFS)
• Servo-driven Flow Wrappers
• Rotary Motion Flow Wrappers
• Box Motion Flow Wrappers

By Packaging Type

• Pillow Packs
• Gusseted Packs
• Fin Seal Packs
• Lap Seal Packs
• Resealable Flow Wraps
• Stick Packs

By Technology

• Conventional Mechanical Flow Wrap
• Servo-Based Systems
• Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
• Vacuum Flow Wrapping
• Smart Packaging Machines

By Application

• Food & Beverage
• Pharmaceuticals
• Personal Care & Cosmetics
• Consumer Goods
• Industrial Products
• Others

By End User

• Food & Beverage Manufacturers
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Personal Care & Cosmetic Brands
• Household Product Manufacturers
• Retail & Supermarket Chains
• Contract Packaging Companies
• E-commerce & Logistics Providers

By Region

North America

• U.S.
• Canada

Europe

• U.K.
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• Australia
• South Korea
• Singapore
• Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• GCC Countries
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

List of Companies:

• BASF SE
• Corbion N.V.
• Roquette Frères SA
• Novamont S.p.A.
• Biome Bioplastics Limited
• Plantic Technologies Limited
• NatureWorks LLC
• TIPA Corp Ltd.
• Cardia Bioplastics Limited
• Rodenburg Biopolymers B.V.
• Green Dot Bioplastics Inc.
• Danimer Scientific, Inc.
• Futamura Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Agrana Beteiligungs-AG
• Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)