Global Molded Pulp Packaging Market - 2023-2030

Overview

Global Molded Pulp Packaging Market reached US$ 4.3 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 5.9 billion by 2030, growing with a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

The demand for sustainable packaging solutions is increasing as the world evolves more ecologically conscious. Molded pulp packing is one such method that is gaining favor. Molded pulp packaging is produced from recycled paper and cardboard and is used in a variety of applications, including food and beverage packaging as well as electronics and automotive components. Molded Pulp Containers The increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions, as well as growing awareness about the negative environmental impact of plastic packaging, are driving market expansion.

For instance, in April 2023, HZ Green Pulp signed an agreement to become Malaysia's first dry molded fiber producer. HZ Corporation, located in Perak, Malaysia, is one of the main manufacturers of molded pulp products. It is faster than traditional fiber molding and has the same cost, output and speed as plastic processing, but with a lower environmental effect. As a result, Asia-Pacific holds for nearly one third of the global market shares.

Dynamics

Molded Pulp's Long-Term Impact on Business and the Environment Revolutionizing the Packaging Industry

The need to lessen one's carbon footprint is one of the key reasons why businesses are rapidly shifting to molded pulp packaging. It is produced from recycled and natural fibers. As a result, molded pulp packaging is long-lasting, recyclable and biodegradable. It will also not take up any landfill space. Second, the pulp-molded packaging can produce goods with a wide range of specifications and complex shapes, allowing it to meet the packaging needs of items of varying shapes, simplify isolation and positioning and avoid collisions. The paper is soft and light, while the overall structure is strong and sturdy enough to provide adequate protection and cushioning.

The raw materials used in paper molded objects are diverse and may be recycled. The products are very recyclable. Production waste as well as finished products can be used as raw materials for re-production. Molded pulp is not only inexpensive and environmentally friendly in its manufacturing process, but it is also biodegradable and compostable, lowering overall waste. If molded pulp were to replace plastic, the world and natural environments would see a tremendous transition toward more sustainable living at a low personal cost.

Growing Demand for Molded Pulp Packaging in Electronic Sector

Considering Growing need for environmental preservation, top players in the electronics industry are placing their trust on sustainable packaging solutions derived from natural resources such as recycled paper as a go-to option for transporting goods and fragile gadgets. Compostable pulp has recently gained popularity in order to meet the demand for more environmentally friendly packaging.

Custom molded pulp packing is not only durable, but it also protects against static and dust abrasion, making it a good contender for shipping electronics. As a result, these solutions are employed for a variety of fast-moving and consumer durable goods to provide protection and prevent the possibility of commodity damage during storage and transportation.

Because of its exceptional flexibility and buffering, pulp molded cushioning is also in high demand as edge protectors and pallets in handling and shipping applications for most electric products. Therefore, Growing demand for the molded pulp packaging in electronics sectors drives the market growth.

Limited Molded Pulp Variability

Because of its intrinsic constraints in shape and molding, molded pulp may struggle to accommodate complex or very complicated product designs. Products with complex shapes or structures may not be suitable for molded pulp packaging, restricting its potential application across a wide range of sectors.

The molded pulp may not provide the same level of customization as other packaging materials such as plastics or corrugated cardboard. It lacks of customization can be discouraging for organizations, particularly those looking for unique or bespoke packaging solutions to match their brand identity or specific product requirements.

Trends and the Innovations Shaping the Molded Pulp Packaging Industry

Molded paper pulp is expected to continue at the forefront of the packaging industry in the next years. Given its ability to self-degrade, this substance is becoming increasingly popular in a variety of applications, including nutrient pots and flower containers. Rising technological breakthroughs and the entrance of diverse painting techniques have paved the way for more refined packaging with smoother surfaces to convey a trendy appearance.

For instance, in October 2020, for both molded fiber packaging makers and their consumers, HP launched a new 3D printing-related tooling process for molded pulp. As the importance of visual appeal grows, major global consumer companies, like Apple and PUMA, are projected to develop distinctive and exquisite retail packaging with molded pulp.

Segment Analysis

The global molded pulp packaging market is segmented based on molded type, source, product, end-user and region.

Food and Beverages End-User Segment Supplements the Global Market Growth

The food and beverage industry are the most significant segment for molded pulp packaging, accounting for the majority of shares in the global market. It is owing to the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the food and beverage industry, as well as stringent laws set by governments globally to reduce the use of plastic packaging.

In February 2023, Researchers at Queen Mary University of London and Mae Fah Luang University in Thailand developed a shellac-based coating that improves the gas barrier properties of a recyclable, compostable and sustainably sourced packaging material, making it suitable for instant, dehydrated, frozen and chilled foods.

In Addition, the electronics and automotive sectors are likely to fuel the expansion of the molded pulp packaging market. It is due to Growing need in these industries for eco-friendly packaging solutions, as well as the requirement to protect fragile electronic and automotive components during shipping.

Geographical Penetration

Growing Awareness and Early Adoption in Country Like U.S. Drives the North American Product Market

North America, especially U.S., has been an early adopter of environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging solutions. The region's adoption of molded pulp packaging has been accelerated by increased knowledge and understanding of its sustainability and environmental impact.

The global average for paper usage per capita is approximately 55kg per person. However, there are inequities in the distribution of consumption. North America has a 215kg average, Europe has a 125kg average, China is above the norm with 77kg and Africa has a huge difference in consumption with 7kg per person. Therefore, Growing usage of the paper and its derivative products drives the growth of the molded pulp packaging in North America. Hence, it acquires more than one third of the total global market shares.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The pandemic caused disruptions in global supply networks, particularly those for raw materials used in the production of molded pulp. Lockdowns, movement restrictions and temporary shutdowns of manufacturing facilities impacted raw material supplies, affecting production capacities.

Consumer behavior changes during the epidemic had a substantial impact on demand patterns for numerous products. Demand for molded pulp packaging increased as demand for certain critical products such as food, medical supplies and e-commerce packaging increased. Reduced demand for non-essential commodities, on the other hand, had an impact on other segments.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis

Price volatility in commodities and raw materials, particularly those used in the production of molded pulp packaging, can be caused by geopolitical instability. Price fluctuations can have an impact on production costs and pricing strategies in the molded pulp industry.

Uncertainty caused by geopolitical events might have an impact on market confidence and investment decisions. Due to uncertain market conditions, businesses may postpone investments or expansions in molded pulp production, thereby impacting market growth.

By Molded Type

• Thickwall
• Transfer Molded
• Thermoformed Fiber
• Processed Pulp

By Source

• Wood Pulp
• Non-wood Pulp

By Product

• Trays
• Clamshells
• Cups
• Plates
• Bowls
• Others

By End-User

• Food and Beverages
• Healthcare
• Electrical and Electronics
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• On July 7, 2022, Preferred Packaging, a division of C-P Flexible Packaging, has added new molded pulp trays manufactured from natural plant fibers to its GreenStream sustainable packaging range. GreenStream plant fiber trays are freezer, microwave and oven-safe and are intended for packed meals. In towns with collection systems, these plastic-free trays are also compostable and recyclable. The new trays will be unveiled at the School Nutrition Association's Annual National Conference, which will be held in Orlando, Florida from July 10 to 12, 2022.
• In December 2022, Knoll Packaging has introduced 100% Knoll Ecoform molded pulp compacts, which are patent-pending. The latest invention, which includes a magnet-free and removable mirror, can replace typical plastic makeup compacts. The Knoll Ecoform molded pulp compact advances Knoll's objective of making the world a better place via design innovation and deepens the company's commitment to eliminating plastics from its supply chain.
• In 2020, MEIYUME has launched the 100% recyclable molded palette of pulps.

Competitive Landscape

major global players in the market include: Huhtamaki Oyj, Bordrene Hartmann A/S, Sonoco, Sabert Corporation, Pro-Pac Packaging, UFP Technologies, Knoll Packaging, PrimeWare- by Primelink Solutions, Genpack LLC and Fabri-Kal.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global molded pulp packaging market segmentation based on molded type, source, product, end-user and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of molded pulp packaging market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global molded pulp packaging market report would provide approximately 69 tables, 70 figures and 210 Pages.

Target Audience 2023

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies