The European pet food packaging industry is undergoing a transformative phase, propelled by urbanization, sustainability consciousness, and lifestyle changes. As the pet ownership landscape shifts toward urban and solo dwellings, packaging formats are evolving to meet new expectations in convenience, storage, and environmental impact.
From 2025 to 2035, the market is expected to grow from USD 3,590 million to USD 5,520 million, registering a CAGR of 4.4%. This steady growth reflects not only increased pet ownership but also heightened innovation in packaging design, materials, and retail integration. In the European market, pet food packaging plays a crucial role beyond functionality. It influences purchase behavior, shelf visibility, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance.
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Pet food packaging refers to the materials and design formats used to contain, preserve, and present pet food products for retail sale. It includes a wide variety of formats—from flexible pouches and rigid containers to cans, sachets, and cartons, each tailored to specific needs such as portion control, freshness, convenience, or branding.
Urbanization and Solo Living Fuel Demand for Small-Pack Solutions
Europe’s major urban centers, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, and beyond, are witnessing a surge in solo households and apartment living. This change has profoundly influenced consumer behavior, especially when it comes to pet food purchases. Consumers now prefer single-serve pouches or resealable bags, which cater to limited kitchen storage and the need for portion control.
These formats also help pet owners manage freshness and avoid waste. As urban pet parents juggle hectic schedules, convenience has emerged as a key selling point. Small packaging not only supports mobility and storage but also aligns with the on-the-go lifestyle that defines many European urban centers.
Key Takeaways from the Pet Food Packaging Industry Analysis in Europe
- The plastic segment is projected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 4.7% from 2025 to 2035.
- Bags & pouches are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of around 4.9% during the same period.
- The dog food packaging segment is set to increase at a CAGR of about 4.6%.
- Dry pet food packaging is forecasted to register a CAGR of 4.8%.
- Germany is expected to lead growth among European countries with a CAGR of 4.5%.
- France’s pet food packaging market is likely to grow at a CAGR of 4.2%.
- The United Kingdom is expected to achieve a 4.3% CAGR in sales of pet food packaging.
- Italy’s market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2035.
- Spain is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 4.0% over the same period.
Growth Drivers in the Europe Pet Food Packaging Industry
- Convenience-Oriented Packaging Formats: Single-serve packs and resealable bags have gained popularity due to their portion control benefits and ability to maintain freshness. Retailers have responded by requesting shelf-ready formats that streamline in-store handling and restocking efficiency. These formats also appeal to busy consumers looking for quick, hassle-free feeding options.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials: Environmental consciousness has become a core consideration. Many European consumers now expect packaging to minimize ecological impact. This has accelerated adoption of recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable substrates, as well as efforts to reduce excess packaging. Brands are innovating with plant-based films, paper-based composites, and other sustainable materials.
- Inflation and Cost Optimization: With inflationary pressures affecting raw materials and logistics, manufacturers are compelled to optimize supply chains and minimize packaging waste to control costs. This has led to leaner designs and more efficient material use without compromising functionality or visual appeal.
- Retailer and Brand Dynamics: Retailers increasingly demand packaging that supports operational efficiency, such as shelf-ready packs, while private label brands invest in eye-catching graphic designs to compete alongside established brands. This competitive environment fosters packaging innovation, both in form and aesthetics.
Key Players
- Amcor plc
- Berry Global, Inc.
- Sealed Air Corporation
- Mondi Group
- Smurfit Kappa Group
- Huhtamaki Group
- Sonoco Products Company
- Constantia Flexibles Group
- DS Smith Plc
- WestRock Company
- Clondalkin Group Holdings Ltd.
- Coveris Holdings S.A.
- Schur Flexibles Group
Key Segments of the Pet Food Packaging Industry Analysis in Europe
By Material:
The industry is segmented into paper & paperboard, plastic, metals, and others.
By Product Type:
The industry is segmented into cans, bags & pouches, folding cartons, tubes, blister pack, plastic bottles & jars, and others.
By End Use:
The industry is segmented into dog food, cat food, fish food, and others.
By Food Type:
The industry is segmented into dry food, wet food and frozen food.
By Country:
The industry is segmented into Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.
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