Hot Drinks Packaging Market Size - By Material, By Packaging Type, By Application - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Hot Drinks Packaging Market Size

The global hot drinks packaging market was estimated at USD 2.1 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 2.2 billion in 2025 to USD 2.9 billion in 2030 and USD 3.9 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period of 2025–2034.

• The growth of hot drinks packaging market is attributed to factors such as the growing demand for ready to drinks (RTD) beverages, rising popularity of premium hot drinks, increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly packaging, the expansion of e-commerce, and the advancements in packaging technology.
   
• One of the factors driving the growth of the market is the rising popularity of single serve and ready to drinks (RTD) owing to increasing need for convenient, portable, and durable packaging solutions that maintain beverage freshness, extend shelf life, and support on-the-go consumption. For instance, the revenue generated by the global ready to drinks coffee & tea market was valued at USD 55.3 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to surpass USD 81.5 billion by 2029, with a growth rate of 10.18% during the forecast period, as stated by Statista.
   
• The developments in packaging technology are providing new solutions with better insulation properties. For example, companies are developing recyclable paperboard and biodegradable plastic packaging due to environmental considerations.
   
• The rise in e-commerce has expanded the hot drinks market fueling the growth of the hot drinks packaging by increasing demand for convenient, portable, and secure packaging. This has created a rapid increase in the demand for special packaging to maintain the flavor and aroma while being shipped and stored.
   
• On the basis of application, the global hot drinks packaging market is segmented into tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and others. Under the application segment, coffee accounted for 53.4% of the market share in 2024. The coffee segment of the market has increased drastically due to the demand for single-serve coffee and RTDs (ready to drink beverages) which easily fits into modern consumer’s busy lifestyles.
   
• In 2024, Asia Pacific dominated the global hot drinks packaging industry with a share of 36.4% and a value of USD 764.9 million. This dominance can be attributed to rapid urbanization, a growing middle-class population, an established tea-drinking culture, and a developing coffee culture.
   

Hot Drinks Packaging Market Trends

• The shift toward sustainable and compostable packaging materials is transforming the hot drink packaging market as brands prioritize eco-friendly solutions to meet consumer expectations and regulatory pressures. This trend began around 2018, driven by bans on single-use plastics and rising environmental awareness. It is impacting the market through innovations in compostable lids, recyclable cups, and plant-based coatings that reduce landfill waste and improve brand image.
   
• Manufacturers should invest in certified materials, improve production efficiency, and collaborate on recycling systems. The trend is expected to remain dominant through 2030, as sustainability becomes a critical competitive differentiator and more stringent packaging regulations are enforced globally.
   
• Adoption of single-serve and on-the-go formats is revolutionizing hot drink packaging as consumers demand convenience without compromising quality. Urbanization and increased RTD coffee and tea consumption is pushing brands toward insulated, spill-proof, and portable designs. This trend gained momentum around 2020, accelerated by changing work patterns, and is projected to dominate by 2031, as demand for RTD coffee and tea rises and retailers prioritize shelf-ready, consumer-friendly packaging options for impulse purchases.
   
• Hot drinks packaging brands are adopting QR codes, NFC, and AR features to boost consumer engagement and traceability. This trend enhances brand loyalty, provides transparency on sourcing, and delivers personalized marketing content. It emerged around 2019 as early adopters piloted interactive campaigns, with adoption expanding during 2021–2024 amid digitization of retail. It is projected to grow through 2032 as brands increasingly compete on connected packaging experiences and consumers increasingly expect interactive, informative, and secure packaging for their hot drink purchases.
   

Hot Drinks Packaging Market Analysis

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

Download Free PDF

Based on packaging type, the market is segmented into pouches, bottles, and cans and containers. The cans and containers segment accounts for the highest market share of 46.6% and the pouches segment is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.
 

• The cans and containers segment was the largest market and was valued at USD 979.7 billion in 2024. Metal cans, particularly aluminum, offer superior barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and light critical for preserving volatile flavor compounds in coffee and tea. Data from the Aluminum Association shows that aluminum packaging maintains up to 99% aroma retention over 12 months, compared to under 85% for multilayer flexible pouches.
   
• Moreover, with global recycling rates for aluminum cans averaging 73%, this aligns with increasing regulatory pressure such as U.S. EPA’s Sustainable Packaging Guidelines on manufacturers to adopt recyclable materials, minimizing environmental impact and complying with evolving compliance frameworks.
   
• Manufacturers investing in high-speed canning lines and lightweighting technology can increase production efficiency, lower environmental footprint, and enhance value proposition to brand owners focused on sustainability and shelf stability.
   
• The pouches segment is the fastest growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period. Flexible pouches, especially stand-up pouches with resealable zippers and spouts, are gaining traction for single-serve and refill formats.
   
• Structurally, pouches’ lightweight and flexible design cuts material usage by an estimated 30–40% compared to rigid alternatives. This directly mitigates raw material cost volatility and reduces shipping and warehousing expenses.
   
• Customization capabilities of pouches enabled by digital and short-run printing allow manufacturers to target niche consumer segments such as organic, single-origin, functional blends drinks. This agility supports faster go-to-market cycles for beverage brands responding to shifting consumer preferences. Packaging manufacturers should invest in laminate barrier innovation (to extend shelf life), digital printing lines for customization, and develop resealable functional features to address premium and lifestyle segments.

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

Download Free PDF

Based on material, the hot drinks packaging market is segmented into paper, plastic, glass, metal, and others. The paper segment accounts for the highest market share of 46.5%.
 

• The paper material was the largest segment and accounted for USD 977.9 million in 2024. Governments worldwide are implementing plastic reduction mandates: e.g., the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive and U.S. state-level bans that have accelerated demand for biodegradable and compostable paper solutions.
   
• Major beverage chains are proactively aligning packaging strategies to meet both compliance requirements and consumer expectations. For instance, in May 2025, Starbucks EMEA partnered with Transcend Packaging, Qwarzo, and Metsä Board to launch home-compostable hot cups and lids that remain widely recyclable a move aimed at satisfying both retailer sustainability demands and consumer expectations.
   
• Paper packaging manufacturers must invest in coating technologies that deliver liquid barrier performance without compromising recyclability, and lightweight, customizable formats to help brand owners meet sustainability KPIs while managing rising fiber costs.
   
• The metal is the fastest-growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period. Metal packaging, particularly aluminum and tin, is experiencing renewed growth as premium coffee and specialty tea brands seek packaging that offers excellent barrier properties for aroma and freshness retention, long shelf life, and critical for higher-priced SKUs and international distribution.
   
• From a sustainability perspective, aluminum packaging aligns strongly with circular economy targets. According to the International Aluminium Institute, aluminum is infinitely recyclable without quality loss, and the global recycling rate for aluminum beverage containers exceeds 70%.
   
• Manufacturers should invest in decorative finishing capabilities to meet premium brand demands, develop lightweight alloys and down-gauged designs to reduce cost and environmental impact and explore small-batch production flexibility to serve limited-edition and seasonal SKUs popular in specialty coffee and tea markets.
   

Based on the applications, the hot drinks packaging market is segmented into tea, coffee, hot chocolate and others. The coffee segment accounts for the highest market share of 53.2% and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period.
 

• The coffee segment was the largest market and was valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2024. This dominance is significantly driven by the rising global consumer demand for premium, single-origin, and artisanal coffee, and driving demand for packaging that preserves aroma, freshness, and flavor compounds. According to the Specialty Coffee Association, specialty coffee now accounts for 58% of U.S. consumer spend on coffee. This demonstrates the increasing demand for premiumization of coffee which require high-barrier packaging formats, such as multilayer laminated pouches and nitrogen-flushed aluminum cans, to protect delicate aromas and volatile compounds.
   
• Manufacturers should partner with specialty coffee companies to create packaging that conveys high-end positioning through tactility, minimalist design, and sustainable materials. Manufacturers will grow their market share by investing in portable packaging lines for portion-controlled RTD and single serve markets.
   
• The tea segment was the fastest growing segment and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period. This growth is rapidly driven by increasing demand for convince and portion-controlled packaging, which propels significant demand for single serve sachets and portable tea bags.
   
• The growing focus on health by consumers is increasing the adoption of functional teas such as herbal, green, and detox which is increasing the demand for sustainable packaging. The European Carton Makers Association, reports that more than 62% of tea brand owners in Europe intend to adopt recyclable, compostable or renewable fiber-based tea packaging by 2027 due to retailer sustainability scorecards and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) targets.
   
• Manufacturers can differentiate by investing in bio-based barrier coatings and heat-sealable compostable laminates suited for tea. Enhancing short-run and digital printing to support seasonal and functional SKUs highlighted by ESTA as a premium segment growth lever help packaging manufacturers to gain the market.

Looking for region specific data?

Download Free PDF

The North America market held 22% market share and is growing at a 6.8% CAGR, driven by growing demand for convenient single serve and RTD coffee options along with the strong e-commerce sales.
 

• The hot drinks packaging market in the U.S. has been expanding steadily, achieving a CAGR of 6.5% and reaching a valuation of USD 377.1 million in 2024. This market is fueled by shifting consumer behaviours, increasing consumption of premium coffee and specialty tea, along with sustainability concerns changing packaging methods. According to the National Coffee Association USA, specialty coffee constitutes 61% of the U.S. coffee market which raises the need for higher value packaging such as aluminum cans, decorative tins, and high barrier stand-up pouches that preserve freshness while allowing for brand narration.
   
• To gain a competitive edge in the market, manufacturers will need enhance flexibility in the supply chain to support the agile and small-batch production favored by specialty brands and direct-to-consumer sales. Focus should also be directed towards developing certified compostable films and recyclable laminates to fulfil increasing brand and retailer demand.
   
• The Canada hot drinks packaging market is projected to grow significantly with a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period. The shift towards sustainable coffee and tea packaging solutions drives the need for compostable, paper-based, and recyclable packaging. In addition, the rapid growth in branded coffee and tea shops, especially Tim Hortons and Starbucks is also driving the demand for packaged products that are high in design value and branded with QR codes for traceability.
   
• In order to capture this opportunity, packaging manufacturers should concentrate on meeting national bans on plastic packaging by focusing on fiber-based and compostable materials, and also by adding digital printing to specialty SKU branded packaging for small-batch specialty lines.
   

Europe hot drinks packaging market held a 27.5% share and a 5.6% CAGR, supported by a strong coffee culture, growing health-conscious populations, and the rise of premium and specialty hot drinks.
 

• The market in Germany reached a valuation of USD 84.6 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period. Germany's emphasis on environmental sustainability has seen enticing returnable packaging schemes enforced, such as deposit bottle systems for beverage containers. Pfand system, which currently covers over 98% of beverage containers. This regulatory framework is influencing consumer expectations, with an increasing willingness to adopt eco-friendly packaging alternatives in hot drinks such as reusable cups, deposit-enabled cans, and recyclable cartons.
   
• Manufacturers targeting the German market should prioritize the development of packaging solutions compatible with the Pfand system, including deposit-returnable cans and durable reusable containers, to meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. Innovation in lightweight, recyclable materials with high barrier properties will be essential to address premiumization trends and sustainability mandates.
   
• The UK hot drinks packaging market is anticipated to surpass USD 123 million by 2034. The implementation of circular economy regulations such as UK Plastic Tax & EPR laws has led to rapid adoption of mono materials PP/PE pouches and refillable tins for tea and coffee, which are major growth drivers in the region. The Soil Association and Fairtrade Foundation report increasing consumer preference for products featuring eco-labels such as Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance certifications, driving demand for minimalist and transparent packaging designs that reflect sustainability commitments.
   
• Packaging manufacturers should prioritize development and scale-up of mono-material flexible packaging and refillable container systems that comply with the UK’s tax and EPR frameworks to support brand owners in meeting sustainability obligations. Investment in certification-compliant eco-label printing and minimalist, transparent design capabilities will be critical to appeal to the growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers.
   

The Asia-Pacific region dominated the hot drinks packaging market and accounted for 36.5% of the total market share. This dominance is supported by large tea drinking population, rising coffee consumption, rapid urbanization, and a growing middle-class population in various countries.
 

• The market in China was valued at USD 288.4 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. According to the China Beverage Industry Association, the rising popularity of DIY iced drinks alongside the convenience of ready-to-drink hot beverages is transforming packaging demand in China. The CBIA also highlights intense competition among brands on packaging innovation emphasizing design, reclosability, and efficiency to capture quick-service consumers.
   
• To capitalize on the fast-evolving hot drinks market in China, packagers should consider developing lightweight and flexible formats like resealable pouches and sachets, which are convenient and portable, ensuring they meet consumer needs for quick-service products.
   
• The Japan hot drinks packaging market has been experiencing steady expansion, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 6.6% and attaining a valuation of USD 60.3 million in 2024. While tea is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, there is also growing demand for artisanal and specialty coffee which creates substantial demand for packaging in both beverage categories. According to the Japan Packaging Institute, more than 72% of Japanese consumers regard packaging quality and design as a primary consideration when purchasing hot beverages, influencing the market in Japan.
   
• Manufacturers targeting Japan should prioritize the development of high-barrier, visually sophisticated packaging that maintains freshness and aroma, especially in single-serve formats that appeal to consumer convenience and portion control preferences. Investing in advanced printing and sustainable materials will address both consumer expectations and regulatory pressures, as evidenced by the growing share of eco-friendly packaging in the market.
   
• The hot drinks packaging market in India was valued at USD 161.9 million in 2024 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of 7.8% during the   forecast period. Growth in the region is propelled by high penetrance of tea consumption and growing coffee consumption in urban regions which has led to growth in hot drinks packaging. For instance, according to the Tea Board of India, India is the world’s second-largest tea consumer, with domestic tea consumption exceeding 1.1 billion kilograms annually, covering more than 85% of total production.
   
• To capitalize on India’s burgeoning hot drinks packaging industry, there is need for innovations aimed at low-cost lightweight packaging and sustainable options such as stand-up pouches, single-serve sachets, and compostable tea bags to support the abundant tea-drinker population as well as the expanding urban coffee consumers. There is also opportunity to capture niche markets in organic, herbal, and functional blends through investing in digitally printed laminate barriers designed to protect scent and freshness which will allow customization for herbal blends and functional teas.
   

Latin America hot drinks packaging market held 8.5% share and is growing with a CAGR of 3.9%, driven by rising middle class population along with the increasing demand for convenient and affordable packaging solutions, which makes it a promising market for packaging suppliers.
 

The Middle East & Africa market was valued at USD 117.7 million in 2024. The market growth in the region is fuelled by the rising coffee culture, increasing reliance on tea/coffee imports, along with the implementation of Islamic compliance such as halal certified inks and non-plastic alternatives (such as metal cans).
 

• The South Africa hot drinks packaging market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. The expansion of middle-class population along with the rise in disposable income are the major growth drivers for the market in the region. According to the Packaging Council of South Africa, the country’s middle-class population now accounts for approximately 35% of the total, contributing significantly to rising demand for premium and convenient beverage options and packaging. South Africa’s regulatory push for recyclability under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations (2021) is also influencing manufacturers to invest in recyclable and lightweight packaging solutions.
   
• Manufacturers should prioritize durable, portable packaging formats such as slim cans, PET bottles, and flexible pouches tailored for RTD tea and coffee to align with urban consumer demand for convenience. Simultaneously, investing in high-barrier materials and innovative closures to maintain product freshness and enhance portability will address the growth of the RTD segment.
   
• The Saudi Arabia hot drinks packaging market is projected to surpass USD 19.9 million by 2034. The increasing emphasis among consumers towards premium and luxury brands, particularly those with higher incomes, fuels the demand for premium hot drinks brands, which generates significant demand for packaging solutions. According to the Saudi Coffee Company notes that majority of new coffee product launches in Saudi Arabia in 2024 targeted premium or luxury segments, supported by the cultural popularity of traditional Arabian coffee (Gahwa) and a growing café culture in urban areas.
   
• Packaging manufacturers should focus on premium and differentiated solutions such as metallic embossing, custom finishes, and glass or specialty cans to align with the Kingdom’s shift towards premium and luxury hot drinks. Investing in design customization, premium materials, and culturally resonant motifs will help brands stand out in a market increasingly driven by affluent consumers’ preferences.
   
• The hot drinks packaging market in UAE accounted for USD 4.9 million in 2024. The multicultural population of the region has created significant demand for a wide range of international drinks, all of which require protective and durable packaging solutions. According to the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) and Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the UAE’s beverage sector has witnessed steady annual growth of 6–7%, supported by the influx of expatriate communities seeking diverse hot drink options from specialty teas to imported coffees.
   

Hot Drinks Packaging Market Share

• The top 5 companies ITC Packaging, Duropack Limited, ProAmpac, Huhtamaki, and Liquibox collectively hold around 47.8% of the market, indicating a consolidated market concentration driven by established supplier relationships and technological barriers to entry. ProAmpac dominates with 18.7% market share owing to its commanding position within the industry owing to retort pouches used for ready to drink (RTD) teas and coffee, and smart packaging technologies including tear notches and zip locks.
   
• Duropack limited holds a major position in the market, accounting for 8.9% of the total market share. This brand focuses on standup pouches and laminated bags for several premium tea brands, with a significant innovation in moisture resistant barrier packaging. Key competitive factor in the market remains sustainability & cost effectiveness, regional customization, and niche applications, along with localized supply chains.
   
• Liquibox is a key player in the hot drinks packaging market and held 6.5% of the total market share, due to its innovative, eco-friendly packaging that preserve flavor and aroma. The aseptic technology utilized by the company assures safe packaging while the company’s customizable designs improve brand recognition and visibility. Liquibox's sustained focus on sustainability as well as quality eco-friendly and high-grade products strengthen its market position.
   
• ITC packaging also held 3.3% of the total market share, driven by its expertise in laminate technology and eco-friendly solutions. Its innovative economy packs save materials without compromising on product freshness. ITC Packaging’s unwavering commitment towards sustainability and quality makes the diverse needs of hot beverage manufacturers easier to fulfil.
   

Hot Drinks Packaging Market Companies

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

• ITC Packaging
• Duropack Limited
• Colourflex
• ProAmpac
• Amber Packaging
• Liquibox
• Huhtamaki
• Sealed Air
• Sonoco
• Graphic Packaging International, LLC
• Stora Enso
• SIG
• Hinojosa Group
• Graham Packaging
   
• Huhtamaki, Graphic Packaging International, LLC, Stora Enso, SIG are considered as leaders as they command strong market share with extensive portfolios in paper cups, sustainable lids, and barrier solutions. These companies support and partner with major beverage corporations to meet the market’s requirements for environmentally friendly hot drink packaging which includes extensive research and development on sustainable, compostable and recyclable packaging.
   
• Sealed Air, Sonoco, ProAmpac are considered as challengers as they focus on expanding market presence through advanced barrier materials, flexible packaging solutions, and strategic acquisitions. They try to close the gap with the leaders by meeting brand owners’ evolving sustainability requirements using extensive industry-wide sustainable packaging experience and innovative designs while maintaining eco-friendly business practices.
   
• Liquibox, Graham Packaging, Hinojosa Group are considered as followers as they maintain steady participation with specialized or regional offerings. Their strategies often show incremental improvement that is coupled with contract manufacturing and low-cost production, earning them the status of dependable suppliers to private label and local beverage companies without aggressively leading on sustainability or design trends.
  
  ITC Packaging, Duropack Limited, Colourflex, Amber Packaging are considered as niche players due to their offering tailored solutions to specific customers which include short-run flexibility and strong local relationships. Their areas of focus include custom printing, specialty laminates, or sustainably sourced regionally manufactured materials which grant them a competitive advantage through service and responsiveness instead of large-scale production and global reach.
   

Hot Drinks Packaging Industry News

• In May 2025, Starbucks EMEA joined forces with Transcend Packaging, Qwarzo, and Metsa Board to launch a home compostable and widely recyclable hot cup and lid system, which replaces the traditional plastic lining. So far, ten European countries have launched the cup and lid system, which will ultimately help reduce single-use plastic waste.
   
• In February 2025, ProAmpac introduced its newly developed recyclable and high-performance packaging solutions. The product features fibre-based packaging, recyclable films, and food-to-go solutions at the Packaging Innovations 2025 event in Birmingham. The company promotes sustainability and innovation in the hot drinks industry.
   
• In July 2024, Twinings & Co. selected Sonoco’s paper bottom container for its new powdered drink, Twinings Thé Latté which can be consumed hot or cold. It is designed with recycled paper fibre, water-based inks and adhesives and can be recycled, while maintaining durability, performance and product freshness.
   

The hot drinks packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecasts in terms of revenue in (USD million) & volume in (Kilo Tons) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Material

• Paper
• Plastic
• Glass
• Metal
• Others

Market, By Packaging Type

• Pouches
• Bottles
• Cans and containers

Market, By Application

• Tea
• Coffee
• Hot chocolate
• 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