Composite Cans Market Size - By Material, By Closure Type, By Capacity, By Industry Vertical - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Composite Cans Market Size

The global composite cans market size was valued at USD 5.1 billion in 2024, with a volume of 2,663.3 million units, and is estimated to grow at a 5.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. The demand for composite cans is increasing significantly owing to the expansion of the packaged food and snack industry along with growth in the nutraceuticals and health supplements market.
 

Trade policies like tariffs implemented under the Trump administration have affected the market for composite cans by increasing costs to imported raw materials such as alumiinum and steel. These actions lead to supply chain disruption and cost pressure on manufacturers, leading to a strategic shift towards localized production and sourcing to counter risks and secure long-term competitiveness.
 

The primary growth driver of the composite cans market is the increased consumption of packaged and ready-to-eat food products. Due to rapid urbanization and increased disposable incomes coupled with changing lifestyles, there is a rise in demand for packaging that is more convenient, portable, and has a longer shelf life. The multi-layered structure of composite cans provides durability, protection from moisture and oxygen, ease of handling, and circulation. According to Statista, the packaged food market in India was valued at USD 2.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit USD 6.4 billion by 2029. Such huge growth is likely to substantially fuel demand for innovative, low-cost, and visually attractive packaging formats like composite cans in most food categories ranging from snacks to powder beverages to confectionery items. Their ability to merge functionality with high-impact branding also makes them a preference for food manufacturers looking to enhance shelf visibility and consumer engagement.
 

Composite cans provide a premium look and feel, allowing for high-quality graphics and customization which increases shelf appeal and brand visibility. This makes them especially appealing in competitive retail environment. Subsequently, the increased demand for nutraceuticals and health supplements is driving the adoption of composite cans, as manufacturers look for packaging that maintains the integrity of the product while appealing to the health-conscious consumers.
 

Composite Cans Market Trends

• The increasing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions is a prominent trend in the market. With consumers and companies becoming more environmentally conscious, packaging which minimizes waste and uses recyclable material is in high demand. Composite cans are produced from recyclable paperboard, which is more sustainable than metal or plastic packaging, and thus aligns with the and thus aligns with the sustainability trends. Statista cited that the global market for sustainable packaging stood at USD 1.24 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 500 billion in 2032. This higher demand for sustainable packaging is also predicted to stimulate the further advancement of composite cans in other industries.
   
• The surge in adoption of composite cans for packaging premium and specialty products is another prominent trend being observed in the market. There is significant transition towards the use of composite cans for premium food, nutraceuticals, and beverage packaging because cans deliver better protection and visual appeal. This trend in the packaging industry towards high-end products is driven by the demand of consumers for packaging that reflects high quality as well as product exclusivity.
   

Composite Cans Market Analysis

On the basis of material, the market is divided into aluminum, paperboard, plastic and steel.
 

• Aluminum cans market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. The use of aluminum composite cans is growing due to its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and recyclability properties. Adoption is propelled by growing consumer demand for sustainable materials as well as government drive towards circular economies.  It also has excellent barrier properties for use in beverages and food items that are sensitive and need extended shelf life.
   
• Steel cans market is anticipated to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2034. Steel-based composite cans are witnessing steady growth, especially for products requiring higher structural strength and tamper resistance. The recyclability of these materials is beneficial to attain sustainability objectives, while thinner gauge steel innovations improve material efficiency. Growth in premium packaging and industrial food segments supports the use of steel in composite can formats.
   

On the basis of capacity, the market is divided into less than 50ml, 50ml to 150ml, 150ml to 250ml, 250ml to 500ml, 500ml to 1000ml, and greater than 1000ml.
 

• 50ml to 150ml market held a share of 26.1% in 2024. Small-sized composite cans (50ml to 150ml) are being adopted in health supplements, trial packs, and cosmetics. The trend is fuelled by growing demand for ease-to-carry and single-serve and convenience in urban lifestyles. Additionally, personalization and premiumization are also driving design innovations and increased adoptions in niche categories such as functional foods and beauty serums.
   
• The 150ml to 250ml market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period. Ready-to-drink beverages, instant foods, and even personal care products are increasingly using medium-sized cans, ranging from 150ml to 250ml. Daily consumption drives demand for compact yet adequate packaging. These sizes are best suited for on-the-go lifestyles, particularly in urban markets and developing youth-oriented markets, as they combine convenience with volume.
   

On the basis of closure type, the composite cans market is categorized into caps and lids.
 

• Caps market is anticipated to reach USD 3.2 billion by 2034. Caps trends focus on reusability, ease of use, and tamper-evidence. Freshness indicators and QR codes are being placed onto the caps. There is an increasing need for custom-designed closures owing to brands' focus on consumer experience and differentiation. Light-weight recyclable material used in the production of caps also contributes to the food and personal care industry's sustainability objectives.
   
• Lids held a market share of 58.6% in 2024. Lid innovations focuses on resealability, barrier enhancement, and improved dispensing. There is a notable shift to mono-materials and biodegradable lids due to sustainability initiatives. Enhanced adoption from consumers looking for easy opening mechanisms drives the design of ergonomically and child safe lids, especially for use in packaging snack foods, powdered drinks, and health supplements.
   

On the basis of industry vertical, the composite cans market is categorized into food and beverage, pharmaceutical, personal care, industrial and chemicals, and others.
 

• Food & beverage market accounted for 42.3% market share in 2024. Composite cans are gaining traction in the food and beverage sector as a result of their enhanced protection, stackability, and light weight design. Re-sealable and recyclable packaging are gaining preference. Adoption is being fuelled with an increase in demand for snacks, powder beverages, and dairy alternatives. Premium branding and clean labeling are influencing packaging format choices.
   
• The personal care & cosmetics market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. Companies in personal care and cosmetics industry encourage the use of composite cans due to their premium look and customization. Increased usage of composite cans is being driven by greater focus on sustainable packaging and minimalist design. Meeting Consumer expectations for functional and sustainable packaging is driving use of recyclable materials, airtight seals for delicate creams and powders, and novel dispensing methods.
   

• In 2024, the U.S. composite cans market accounted for USD 1.3 billion. Sustainable and recyclable packaging is driving consumer adoption of composite cans in the US. Businesses are working to mitigate the use of plastics and enhance branding with more appealing premium formats. The increase in demand for health supplements, beverages, and snacks is further aiding to the proliferation of cans among eco-consumers that prefer sustainable packaging and convenience.
   
• The Germany composite cans market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. The German market for composite cans is characterized by the stringent environmental regulations and consumer concern regarding sustainability. The shift toward environmentally responsible packaging is gaining traction in the country, with composite cans being favored by manufacturers due to their recycling capability. In addition the strong market demand for organic and premium products in the food and beverage sector is driving steady market growth.
   
• The China market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period. The composite cans market in China is driven by the increasing consumption of packaged foods and beverages resulting from the fast urbanization and rising middle-class income levels. The enhancement of sustainable packaging policies by the government is a further boost to market development. Composite cans are being adopted by local manufacturers to enhance product appeal and shelf presence.
   
• Japan is anticipated to account for a share of 19.2% of the composite cans market in Asia Pacific. In Japan, the market for composite cans is growing due to the rise in demand for aesthetic and compact high-quality packaging. The aging population in Japan along with the developing health supplement industry is driving the demand for easy-to-use protective formats. Focus on minimalism and product integrity is naturally favorable to composite cans, especially in premium food and wellness segments.
   
• India’s market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period. The growth of the composite cans market in India is primarily attributed to the growth of packaged food, snacks, and nutraceuticals demand. Rising middle class population, increased urbanization, and higher demand for convenience are the prime factors adoption of composite cans. There is also an increase in sustainability awareness, which is fostering the shift from plastic-based packaging to composite cans.
   

Composite Cans Market Share

The composite cans industry is highly competitive. The top 5 players in the market are Corex Group, Irwin Packaging, Mondi Group, Smurfit Kappa Group, and Sonoco Products accounting for a significant share of over 50% in the market.
 

The market of composite cans consists of both global and regional players that focus on product innovation, material optimization, and eco-friendliness. Companies are developing new low-weight models, barrier compounds, and shelf-stable products that are attractive to consumers. Strategic alliances with food and beverage firms, capacity expansion in operational facilities, and concentration on new geographies are crucial to enhance market presence. Moreover, firms are utilizing branding and printing enhancements on composite cans to differentiate their products and attract consumers' attention. Growing, firms are also focusing more on tailored and customized packaging and production according to consumer needs across industries.
 

Composite Cans Market Companies

Some of the prominent market participants operating in the industry include:

• Corex Group
• Irwin Packaging
• Mondi Group
• Smurfit Kappa Group
• Sonoco Products
   

Mondi Group integrates sustainability, innovation, and vertical integration into their strategy for the composite cans market. The company is cognizant of evolving environmental demands and makes investments in sustainable and lightweight packaging solutions. Additionally, Mondi utilizes its in-house material manufacturing capacity in conjunction with a range of FMCG brand partnerships to expand customized packaging solutions globally.
 

Smurfit Kappa Group focuses on sustainable product development and geographical growth. The company practices circular economy principles and strives to meet consumers’ eco-friendly preferences with eco-friendly packaging products. Strategic investments in customer-centric innovations and advanced paper-based digital printing technology improves brand identity. To enhance its global packaging strategy, Smurfit Kappa increases operations in emerging markets.
 

Composite Cans Market Industry News

• In September 2024, Marigold Health Foods, together with Sonoco, released a new version of the EnviroCan that features a fully recyclable paper bottom. This new EnviroCan is intended to market Marigold’s natural plant products like nutritional yeast (Engevita), bouillon, stock cubes, sauces, and meat and fish alternatives.
   
• In April 2023, Harman Ambalaj introduced the world’s first fully cardboard-based composite can. This solution is made with 100% cardboard, replacing the metal, tin, or plastic ends and lids which reduces environmental impact and increases recycling efficiency. 
   

The composite cans market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in (USD Million) & (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Material

• Aluminum
• Paperboard
• Plastic
• Steel  

Market, By Closure Type

• Caps
  • Snap on
  • Plug
• Lids
  • Aluminum membrane
  • Plastic membrane
  • Paperboard ends

Market, By Capacity

• Less than 50ml
• 50ml to 150ml
• 150ml to 250ml
• 250ml to 500ml
• 500ml to 1000ml
• Greater than 1000ml

Market, By Industry Vertical

• Food and beverage
• Pharmaceutical
• Personal care
• Industrial & chemicals
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE