The global collation shrink film market is projected to reach approximately USD 7.2 billion by 2035, growing at a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8 % between 2025 and 2035. This forecast offers exciting opportunities for both established and new manufacturers keen to expand their footprint, adopt emerging technologies, and respond to evolving customer and regulatory demands.
Market Overview & Strategic Imperatives
Collation shrink films—used to bundle products together such as beverages, packaged goods, and other consumer items—are increasingly valued not just for their protective properties but also for branding, logistics efficiency, and sustainability. Industry leaders such as Berry Global, Sealed Air, and Amcor are setting the competitive tone through investments in advanced materials, innovative manufacturing processes, and broad geographic coverage.
For new players and smaller manufacturers, the message is clear: there is significant room to enter, especially through niche offerings, geographic expansion into emerging regions, and the adoption of differentiating technologies. The market’s concentration statistics are telling—the top three players account for roughly 17 % of the market, with the next two representing another 9 %, indicating a substantial portion of market share still open for competition.
Why This Is a Pivotal Moment for Manufacturers
For established manufacturers—those already supplying global markets or with strong brand portfolios—the imperative is to stay ahead of the curve by broadening product lines and embracing the sustainability wave. Berry Global, for example, is developing lightweight, durable shrink film solutions, while Amcor is focusing on eco-friendly and recyclable film innovation. These leaders are also contending with challenges such as raw-material cost volatility and regulatory shifts—but those very challenges are creating opportunities for transformation.
For newer entrants, the opportunities are twofold: first, the chance to address underserved markets—particularly in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America, where FMCG growth and packaging sophistication are both accelerating. Second, by adopting emerging technologies early—such as smart films, bioplastics, and advanced manufacturing—newcomers can leapfrog the competition and establish themselves as innovation leaders.
Emerging Technologies That Are Shaping the Future
The report highlights several technology trends that manufacturers—both established and emerging—must consider:
- Bioplastics: Shrink films produced from compostable or bio-based polymers to reduce environmental impact.
- Smart Films: Films with embedded QR codes or NFC chips, enabling product tracking, anti-counterfeiting, and enhanced consumer engagement.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Next-generation processes designed to reduce material usage, lower energy consumption, and enable mass customization—essential for packaging that must balance performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
Manufacturers integrating these technologies into their production strategies are positioning themselves not just for growth, but for long-term leadership in the evolving packaging ecosystem.
Strategic Recommendations for Manufacturers
- For Established Players: Leverage global scale to roll out next-gen materials such as bioplastics and recyclable films. Invest in manufacturing upgrades and deepen presence in high-growth regions. With North America accounting for roughly 40 % of current demand, Europe 30 %, and Asia-Pacific rising rapidly at around 20 %, future expansion will hinge on diversification beyond traditional markets.
- For New Entrants: Target niche segments or geographic areas where global players have limited presence. Invest in flexible, agile manufacturing platforms to provide customization and smart-film features. Collaborate strategically for distribution and logistics to meet the needs of FMCG and e-commerce packaging.
- For All Manufacturers: Prioritize sustainability. Consumers and regulators are demanding recyclable, lightweight, and eco-responsible packaging solutions. Overcoming raw-material volatility and compliance burdens will be essential for maintaining competitiveness.
Looking Ahead: Market Momentum and Outlook
With the consumer goods, beverage, and logistics industries embracing bundled packaging solutions, the demand for collation shrink films is set to expand. The projected USD 7.2 billion market size by 2035 reflects not only increasing volumes but also a shift toward premiumization—through smart packaging, sustainable materials, and brand-specific customization.
Manufacturers that recognize these shifts and adapt their capabilities accordingly will be best positioned to thrive. Whether an established multinational or an emerging player entering new territories, the window of opportunity is wide open for those willing to innovate.
About the Report
The latest analysis offers a comprehensive view of market trends, segmentation, regional performance, technology developments, and vendor benchmarking across more than 60 countries. It provides actionable insights for both current market leaders and aspiring entrants seeking to align their strategies with industry transformation.
