The global market for ready-to-eat food packaging is showing sustained growth and is expected to grow by 6.3% per year between now and 2034, according to Towards FnB. Currently estimated at $95.17 billion, it will reach nearly $165 billion thanks to changing lifestyles, demand for convenience and environmental concerns. North America currently dominates, but Asia-Pacific will see the strongest growth. Plastic, cardboard and flexible packaging structure the market, with strong momentum for sustainable solutions. Artificial intelligence is also revolutionising the industry, optimising materials, production and safety. These innovations will be the focus of the ALLFORPACK EMBALLAGE PARIS conferences, from 24 to 26 November 2026 at Paris Nord Villepinte.
According to Towards FnB, this market is expected to grow by 6.3% annually over the next ten years.

Global market for food packaging

The global market for food packaging for ready-to-eat products is experiencing sustained growth and is expected to continue this momentum over the next decade: this is the main finding of a study published this summer by Towards FnB, a consulting and research firm specialising in the agri-food sector, which forecasts annual growth of 6.3% between now and 2034. Currently estimated at $95.17 billion, this market is expected to reach nearly $165 billion in 2034, riding a wave of momentum driven by changing lifestyles, the increased search for convenience, and growing environmental and health concerns.

Ready-to-eat food packaging: analysis by segment

The analysis by segment highlights the dynamics specific to each category:

  • By region: North America currently dominates the market, driven by strong consumption of processed products, while Asia-Pacific is expected to see the strongest growth in the coming years thanks to rapid urbanisation and changing consumption patterns.
  • By material: plastics remain dominant due to their flexibility and cost, but paper and cardboard are expected to see significant growth, driven by demand for more sustainable solutions.
  • By type of packaging: rigid formats currently dominate, but flexible packaging (bags, films) is expected to grow rapidly due to its lightness and practicality, according to Towards FnB.
  • By product type: boxes and cartons still hold the top spot, but films and bags are gaining ground, responding to demand for compact and easily transportable packaging.
  • By application: ready meals lead the way, while snacks and confectionery are gaining ground, boosted by the rise in on-the-go consumption.


Packaging: when AI changes the game

Segment analysis highlights clear trends: depending on the region, materials or type of packaging, the market is moving towards greater practicality and sustainability. But beyond these structural dynamics, another transformation is taking place: the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly changing the sector. In factories, computer vision systems inspect packaging lines in real time to identify defects, leaks or contamination, thereby enhancing food safety. AI is also influencing the choice of materials: machine learning models compare performance, costs and environmental impact to optimise solutions. In addition, predictive analytics makes it possible to adjust production to demand, anticipate breakdowns through predictive maintenance and reduce waste. The topic of AI and its impact on the packaging industry will be at the heart of the conferences at the next edition of ALLFORPACK EMBALLAGE PARIS, from 24 to 26 November 2026 at Paris Nord Villepinte.

For more news, visit here.