Food Packaging Equipment Market Size, Overview & Strategic Insights

Food Packaging Equipment Market Size, Growth and Future Opportunities

The global food packaging equipment market size was valued at USD 21.42 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand from USD 22.58 billion in 2025 to USD 36.24 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 5.40% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Surging demand for the clean and hygienic packaged foods and technological advancements in packaging industries remarkably driving the market.

Key Highlights

• By region, the Asia Pacific dominated the market with the highest share of 38% in 2024. As the urbanization increases, there is rising demand for packaged items, including ready-to-eat meals, drinks, and snacks, expanding the market.
• By region, Europe is observed to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. Producers in this area are embracing state-of-the-art packaging equipment integrated with robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning features to boost production efficiency.  
• By equipment, the form-fill-seal (FFS) machines segment generated the maximum market share of 29% in 2024. Increasing demand for flexible packaging is another key factor benefitting the form-fill seal machine market.
• By equipment, the filling and dosing equipment segment is expected to grow at the notable CAGR of 5.6% during the predicted timeframe. This segment has undergone notable growth, driven by the rising demand for packaged goods in different industries like food and drink. 
• By application, the bakery and confectionery segment captured the maximum market share of 25% in 2024. The change in consumer’s preferences is a prominent driver of innovation in bakery and confectionery packaging equipment.
• By application, the dairy products segment is predicted to grow at the remarkable CAGR of 6% during the forecast period. The growing demand for different dairy items such as cheese, butter, yogurt, etc, necessitates specialized packaging solutions, leading to an expansion in the market.

Technological Breakthrough Expanding the Food Packaging Equipment Market 

The packaging is among the most vital unit operations in creating any commercial product to guarantee product quality during transport, storage, sale, and usage. The technology associated with packaging is constantly progressing from traditional techniques to modern automated systems to meet commercial needs. The demand for food items and dietary supplements in the market has surged significantly over the past few decades. The packaged food items and dietary supplements have significantly influenced contemporary human living. Advancements in food Packaging machines according to market trends, customer demands, technological advancements, standards, and regulations that differ from those for other packaging machines increasing the food packaging equipment market. 

• Worldwide, the leading three exporters of Packaging Machines are China, India, and Germany. China tops the globe in Packaging Machine exports with 226,899 shipments, while India follows with 149,835 shipments, and Germany secures the third position with 133,415 shipments.

Food Packaging Equipment Market Trends 

• The packaging sector is experiencing swift growth due to the increasing consumer demand for processed and packaged foods, driven by shifts in lifestyle and eating habits, globalization, and rising income levels. 
• Innovations in packaging equipment are moving the incorporation of automation nearer to the front for producers of all scales. Integration of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and robotics advancing the market. Automated packaging lines are rapidly emerging as the definitive solution to address changing consumer expectations, from improving operational efficiency to providing essential scalability. 
• 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is revolutionizing the food packaging sector by facilitating the development of tailored, eco-friendly, and creative packaging options. 3D printing has been utilized to produce devices that monitor food quality, ensure package integrity, and aid in food authentication. It is a feasible technology for producing smart elements that can be incorporated into standard food packaging to develop intelligent food packaging. 
• Sustainability is not merely a trendy term in the packaging machinery industry; it is a fundamental obligation. Edible food packaging may seem like a concept from the future, but the trend has been steadily rising over the years, and numerous cartoning machines are now designed to be environmentally friendly and even create edible wrappers. Case packing equipment utilizes edible substances to produce edible packages for moving and preserving food items. Case packaging has existed for a considerable period, safeguarding the food we eat from environmental factors, bacteria, and ensuring it reaches its destination safely.
• Various government initiatives, funding and collaboration between government and industries helping the producers for the food packaging equipment market expansion. 
• In December 2024, the Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries hosted a roundtable discussion with executives from the food processing and packaging machinery industry at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe, New Delhi. The gathering offered a venue for industry leaders and government representatives to explore opportunities, obstacles, and possible solutions to promote growth and boost global competitiveness in this vital sector. 

Market Opportunity 

Portfolio Diversification and Investment In R&D Surging the Market

The increase in R&D funding indicates a transformative era for the packaging industry, marked by the quest for innovative materials and improved designs. Investing in intelligent packaging technologies is an essential move for businesses aiming to improve user experience and increase value in their product lines. In 2023, the emphasis on intelligent packaging has experienced significant expansion owing to increased recognition of consumer demands and the competitive advantage it offers in the market. Additionally, businesses are broadening their portfolio due to the rising need for packaging. 

• In June 2024, Pacteon Group, a leader in End of Line Packaging Equipment Solutions, announced the successful purchase of Descon Integrated Conveyor Solutions, a well-known supplier of integrated conveyor systems for the food and beverage sector. This tactical decision represented an important milestone in Pacteon’s expansion strategy and reinforces its dedication to product management proficiency. 

Market Challenge 

High Cost of Investments Impeding the Market Growth  

Amidst the pressures of environmental issues, the packaging sector is restructuring. Shifting lifestyles and increasing costs of raw materials have driven this trend. Equipment in the packaging industry is continually advancing. Nonetheless, numerous companies struggle to adapt to the changes due to the associated expenses. The significant cost of investment in packaging equipment is hindering the food packaging equipment market. 

Regional Insights 

Asia Pacific Dominated the Market in 2024. 

As the urbanization increases, there is rising demand for packaged items, including ready-to-eat meals, drinks, and snacks. The growing middle-class demographic requires convenience, wellness products, and superior packaging. With increased developments in manufacturing segments like food, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, the requirement for high-swift and automated packaging equipment is surging sharply. 

In recent years, China has become a significant player, revolutionizing its food packaging equipment market with a combination of technological innovations, strategic investments, and competitive pricing. Chinese firms have greatly increased their investments in research and development. These investments have resulted in the development of highly efficient and technologically sophisticated packaging machines that integrate the latest advancements in automation, Internet of Things robotics, and technology. Consequently, the sector has experienced a 25% rise in patent applications concerning packaging technologies in the last three years. China provides substantial tax incentives and various platforms including exhibitions to enhance its manufacturing industry, particularly for advanced technology sectors. 

• There are 1,324 suppliers of food packaging machines in China, serving 1,597 buyers worldwide. Between October 2023 and September 2024, 519 suppliers operated, with TIANJIN UNIPACK PACKAGING MATERIAL CO LTD, GUANGXI BANGYOU TRADE CO LTD, and IMEX GIDA IC VE DIS TICARET LTD STI representing 65% of China's overall Food Packaging Machine exports.

Europe is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Food Packaging Equipment Market During the Forecast Period. 

Europe is recognized for its robust manufacturing strengths and emphasis on innovation. Producers in this area are embracing state-of-the-art packaging equipment integrated with robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning features to boost production efficiency, lower labor expenses, and improve product uniformity. Automation is essential in achieving the substantial production levels and strict quality standards of the European market. Moreover, the growth of e-commerce and shifting consumer tastes are fueling the demand for packaging machinery in Europe. 

In Germany, food packaging equipment market are leaning towards digitization, sustainability, and adaptability, with the market evolving significantly to meet consumer, regulatory, and sustainability requirements. The food sector in Germany ranks as the fourth largest industry, comprising 6,119 companies and employing 608,553 individuals, with more than 90% being small and medium-sized enterprises. The packaging machines are predominantly bought by the food sector, which accounts for about 40%, catering to over 80 million people with a diverse selection of 170,000 products. In the German mechanical engineering sector, food processing and packaging represent 6% of the overall production value and provide jobs for more than 62,000 individuals. Approximately half of the production value of €16.5 billion is associated with packaging machines. 

• In 2023, German producers of food processing and packaging machinery experienced a nominal export increase of 8.6 percent, attaining a record high of 9.85 billion euros. Nonetheless, German producers were not the sole ones to gain from the robust worldwide demand. Based on the information accessible so far, the worldwide market for food processing and packaging equipment is thought to have increased to more than 52 billion euros in 2023.  

Segmental Insights 

Equipment Insights

The Form-fill-seal (FFS) Machines Segment Held the Largest Share of the Food Packaging Equipment Market in 2024. 

Increasing demand for flexible packaging is another key factor benefitting the form-fill seal machine market. With the rise of online sales, the demand for versatile packaging such as bags, pouches, and containers is increasing. Companies can meet their objectives and enhance packaging efficiency by utilizing the FFS sector, which offers solutions that are both effective and customized to needs. The demand for convenience meals has surged due to changing lifestyles and rising preferences for convenience. These meals are perfectly designed for FFS packaging, offering fast and efficient methods to preserve the quality and freshness of food products.

The Filling and Dosing Equipment Segment is Seen to Grow at a Notable Rate in the Food Packaging Equipment Market During the Predicted Timeframe. 

This segment has undergone notable growth, driven by the rising demand for packaged goods in different industries like food and drink. An essential element of the dosing and filling Machine Market is the packaging procedure, which includes several stages to guarantee that items are filled and sealed effectively. This procedure not only improves product integrity but also aids in extending shelf-life and ensuring consumer safety. As sectors work to comply with regulatory requirements, the significance of accurate dosing and filling becomes increasingly evident.

Application Insights

The Bakery and Confectionery Segment Held the Dominating Share of the Food Packaging Equipment Market in 2024. 

The change in consumer’s preferences is a prominent driver of innovation in bakery and confectionery packaging equipment. The rising demand for convenience foods increases the demand for the single-serve and ready-to-eat bakery products, needing specialized packaging solutions. Equipment efficient of producing portioned packs, resealable options, and tamper-proof designs are in elevated demand to complete to these changing needs. With an increasing number of bakery brands seeking to set themselves apart in a more competitive market, there is heightened focus on packaging solutions that strengthen brand identity and maintain product integrity during transportation.

The Dairy Products Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Market During the Forecast Period. 

The growing demand for different dairy items such as cheese, butter, yogurt, etc, necessitates specialized packaging solutions, leading to an expansion in the food packaging equipment market. New packaging designs are being created to enhance shelf life for improved export opportunities. Concepts of single-material packaging are also emerging, in which the tub, lid, and secondary packaging are made from identical recyclable materials. Dairy items impose strict requirements on their packaging. The packaging safeguards against light, in-pack ripening, and spoilage while offering specially designed easy-open, peelable materials. 

Recent Developments in the Food Packaging Equipment Market 

ULMA GROUP

• Launch: In March 2025, ULMA Packaging, section of the ULMA GROUP, introduced its unique TFX series of thermoforming equipment developed for food packaging. This new equipment series are specifically developed to combat challenges in the food segment, focusing on improving production efficiency, advancing sustainability, and enhancing digitalisation. 

Parason

• Collaboration: In March 2023, Parason, a leading producer and supplier of paper and pulp machinery, partnered with ABB in India for automating and enhancing the production of compostable and sustainable packaging solutions. 

Duravant LLC

• Acquisition: In August 2024, Duravant LLC, a worldwide provider of engineered machinery and automation solutions for the food processing, packaging, and material handling industries, declared its acquisition of T-TEK Material Handling LLC, a prominent manufacturer of high-speed packaging machines and systems solutions based in Montgomery, Alabama.

Food Packaging Equipment Market Leading Companies

• Tetra Pak International S.A.
• GEA Group AG
• Krones AG
• Multivac Group
• ProMach Inc.
• IMA Group
• Syntegon Technology
• Ishida Co., Ltd.
• Fuji Machinery Co., Ltd.
• Great Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd

Segments Covered in the Report

By Equipment

• Form-Fill-Seal
• Filling & Dosing
• Cartoning
• Case Packing
• Wrapping & Bundling
• Others

By Application

• Bakery & Confectionary 
• Dairy Products
• Fruits, Nuts & Vegetables
• Meat, Poultry & Seafood 
• Convenience Food
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa (MEA)