Stretch and Shrink Films Market

Stretch and Shrink Films Market Size

The global stretch and shrink films market was valued at USD 20 billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow from USD 21.1 billion in 2026 to USD 28.5 billion in 2031 & USD 38.4 billion in 2035, at a value CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period according to the latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

The growth of the circular economy and focus on recycling initiatives, along with the growth of the E-commerce and logistics industries, increased applications for food preservation, the development of smart packaging technology, and advancements in film manufacturing techniques propel the market growth.

The expansion of e-commerce and the logistics sector drive the stretch and shrink films market by increasing demand for secure, cost-effective packaging solutions. As online retail sales grow, companies seek packaging that ensures safe, efficient, and damage-free delivery. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Q2 2025 retail e-commerce sales reached USD 304.2 billion, a 5.3% year-over-year increase, making up 16.3% of total retail sales. This surge further boosts the demand for lightweight, protective films to handle the growing e-commerce volume.

Between 2022 and 2024, the market witnessed considerable growth, increasing from USD 17.3 billion in 2022 to USD 19.1 billion in 2024. Sustainability is becoming one of the primary focuses of many businesses today as they strive to lessen their negative environmental impacts. As an example, Berry Global opened an innovation and training facility located in Tulsa, Oklahoma which will focus specifically on developing new stretch films which will facilitate the creation of circular economy-friendly products at its twelve thousand square foot circular innovation & training center. Its aim is to help develop new ways of utilizing and recycling materials within the packaging industry to create new and innovative projects that will reduce the impact of plastic waste while increasing product reuse.

Stretch and Shrink Films Market Trends

• Stretch and shrink film products have witnessed increased demand due to the increased number of biodegradables available for consumers due to regulations on plastic waste and environmental issues.
  
• In addition, in the last 5-7 years, an increase in the number of biodegradable film technologies and an increase in consumer interest in using bio-friendly and eco-friendly alternatives has led to the recent trend towards increased use and growth of biodegradable shrink and stretch films. According to the European Commission, bio-based, biodegradable, and compostable plastics accounted for approximately 1% of total global plastic production (2 million tons). This capacity will increase by an additional 100% by 2025 as the market increasingly commits to sustainability through regulatory pressures and consumer awareness campaigns. The peak of this trend is projected to occur in the next 3-5 years due to continued increases in regulatory controls regarding plastic waste, and the continuing increase in consumer awareness of the impact of plastic on the environment.
  
• The stretch and shrink films industry has been growing rapidly due to an increasing number of companies choosing local sources, promoting environmentally friendly practices and complying with local regulations.
  
• This shift has been occurring more rapidly in the last three to five years as Europe and North America have begun emphasizing eco-friendly forms of packaging. According to the European Commission, approximately 40 percent of all plastics used in the European Union is for packaging, while this represents 36 percent of all municipal waste created by European Union countries. Given that the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR) require all packaging to be recyclable by the year 2030, the next two to three years should mark the peak of this shift in purchasing habits.
  
• The latest trend in the stretch films market is the increased use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, driven by rising consumer demand for sustainable packaging. Manufacturers are focusing on maintaining high performance while reducing plastic waste. This shift aligns with the growing emphasis on the circular economy and regulatory pressures. For example, in May 2024, COLINES and ExxonMobil launched a stretch film containing 35% PCR material at NPE 2024, highlighting advancements in eco-friendly packaging with improved efficiency and quality.
  

Stretch and Shrink Films Market Analysis

 

The global market was valued at USD 17.3 billion and USD 18.1 billion in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The market size reached USD 20 billion in 2025, growing from USD 19.1 billion in 2024.

Based on the product, the global stretch and shrink films market is divided into wraps, sleeves and labels, & hoods. The wraps segment accounted for 49.1% of the market in 2025.

• The wrap product category is being driven by an increase in demand for cost-effective and protective packaging solutions, such as wraps for food, retail, and e-commerce products, that help ensure product safety and integrity.
  
• In addition, manufacturers need to focus on developing quality and sustainable packaging solutions that will give enhanced protection and support the reduction of environmental impact, while satisfying consumers' need for environmentally friendly packaging products, particularly in relation to e-commerce and food.
  
• The sleeves and labels segment was valued at USD 7.5 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% over the forecast years. The sleeve and label product category is being propelled by an increase in demand for unique, attractive, informative and customizable packaging solutions, particularly within the food, beverage and retail markets.
  
• Manufacturers need to develop innovative and sustainable sleeve and label products that enhance design options, have high quality printing options, customization capabilities and utilize eco-friendly materials to have a competitive advantage in the market.
  

Based on material, the stretch and shrink films market is segmented into polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), biodegradable and compostable, & others. The polyethylene (PE) segment dominated the market in 2025 with a revenue of USD 5.9 billion.

• The versatility, longevity, and ability to produce polyethylene (PE) packages at a lower cost than other packaging options are making polyethylene packaging a leading choice for many industries such as food, pharmaceutical, and retail.
  
• PE film manufacturers must focus on developing higher quality PE film products while making efforts to produce recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable PE film products that help reduce their environmental footprint. However, because of its versatility and the price point of this type of product, polyethylene films are still a viable product for companies looking for low-cost solutions for a variety of different packaging applications.
  
• On the other hand, the biodegradable and compostable segment is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period.
  
• Increased consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions as well as growing government regulations regarding the use of single-use plastics have fueled consumer demand for biodegradable and compostable films.
  
• Therefore, manufacturers must concentrate on developing more sophisticated biodegradable and compostable films that perform better, offer higher levels of sustainability, and remain competitively priced, while also meeting the strictest environmental laws.
  

Based on the application, stretch and shrink films market is classified into consumer goods, food & beverage, industrial packaging, logistics & transportation, pharmaceutical, & others. The food & beverage dominated the market in 2025 with a market share of 25.1%.   

• The food & beverage application represents the largest market share of the stretch and shrink films industry, due to the continued increase in consumer demand for safe, durable, and longer-lasting food and beverage packaging that will maintain freshness and quality throughout shipping and storage.
  
• Manufacturers to satisfy market demands for higher-quality packaging that offers longer product life, enhanced freshness, and higher levels of sustainability, while also complying with food safeguards and meeting consumer preferences.
  
• The logistics & transportation segment is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 7.9% during the forecast period. The logistics and transportation segment of the packaging industry continue to grow due to the continued need for durable, lightweight, and secure packaging materials to protect products during transportation.
  
• Manufacturers should focus on creating robust, cost-effective packaging solutions that enhance product protection, reduce weight, and improve efficiency, while ensuring compliance with logistics regulations and sustainability goals.
  

North America Stretch and Shrink Films Market

North America market with a market share of 30.2% in 2025.

• Sales growth in North America for stretch and shrink films is increasing because of continued growth and expansion of e-commerce, which is driving packaging demand through strict regulation and policy surrounding packaging (promoting sustainable options) along with the desire by consumers for environmentally friendly packaging options.
  
• Also, there is an increase in automated packaging manufacturing technology that helps to add efficiency and reduce costs of production. Additionally, increased consumer packaged goods are also driving increasing demands for protective and multifunctional packaging.
  

The U.S. stretch and shrink films market was valued at USD 4.5 billion and USD 4.7 billion in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The market size reached USD 5.2 billion in 2025, growing from USD 4.9 billion in 2024.

• In the United States, the increasing amount of stretch and shrink film is being driven by the recycling incentives provided by the government, increased retail packaging growth, and advancements in automation, efficiency, and technology used in producing packaging.
  
• Manufacturers must focus on creating more sustainable and recyclable film solutions and incorporating automation into their production process to improve production efficiency.
  

Europe Stretch and Shrink Films Market

Europe market accounted for USD 4.4 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to show lucrative growth over the forecast period.

• The European market for stretch and shrink films has been supported by a variety of factors including stringent packaging and waste regulations set forth by the European Union, increased implementation of circular economy methods, and greater emphasis on reducing the amount of plastic waste generated.
  
• In addition, through technological advancements in recycling and repurpose of films, manufacturers are increasingly pressured to develop sustainable and efficient packaging solutions in accordance with the European Union’s sustainability goals for recycling.
  

Germany stretch and shrink films market dominates the Europe market, showcasing strong growth potential.

• In Europe, Germany’s stretch and shrink film market continue to grow due to the country's commitment to sustainability and recycling, strong consumer demand for innovative food packaging, and a variety of government initiatives aimed at supporting the reduction of plastic waste.
  
• Manufacturers need to continue developing innovative packaging products that comply with Germany's rigorous requirements for recycling, meeting the highest standards for food packaging efficiency, and developing a sustainable approach to reducing the impact of plastic waste.
  

Asia Pacific Stretch and Shrink Films Market

The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 7.3% during the analysis timeframe.

• In the Asia-Pacific Region, the growth of the stretch and shrink films industry is being driven by an increasing focus on low-cost packaging options, the implementation of government-sponsored green packaging initiatives, and the rapidly growing demand for consumer goods packaging.
  
• Another factor contributing to the growth of the market in the Asia-Pacific Region is consumer awareness of sustainable packaging solutions and the growth of food processing businesses within this area.
  

China stretch and shrink films market is estimated to grow with a significant CAGR, in the Asia Pacific stretch and shrink films industry.

• China's stretch and shrink film industry is being driven by an increase in the availability of advanced manufacturing technologies. The increase in logistics and supply chain demands from either manufacturing or retail operations has been a major reason for the growth of this sector.
  
• Manufacturers of stretch and shrink films need to concentrate on adopting the latest technologies, implementing efficiencies in their supply chains, and developing innovative, environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging products to meet the requirements of the Chinese market and adhere to Chinese government regulations.
  

Latin American Stretch and Shrink Films Market

Brazil leads the Latin American market, exhibiting remarkable growth during the analysis period.

• Brazil has become the leading market for Latin America stretch and shrink films following major growth factors in Brazil's food and beverage industry, a rise in demand from logistics firms, as well as an increase in retail and consumer products availability.
  
• To support continued growth of the retail and consumer goods industry, packaging solutions need to be enhanced for food and beverage products, faster and more efficient logistics developed to support that growth, and innovative, sustainable films created to provide support to the retail and consumer goods sector.
  

Middle East and Africa Stretch and Shrink Films Market

South Africa stretch and shrink films industry to experience substantial growth in the Middle East and Africa market in 2025.

• In the middle/eastern Africa region, South Africa has a significant portion of the stretch and shrink film market due to a growing manufacturing sector, the rise in demand for packaging for food products, and the development of retail and e-commerce sectors.
  
• In South Africa, packaging manufacturers should be working to create long-lasting, cost-effective solutions for food packaging and upgrade their production capabilities to meet demand in the retail, e-commerce and manufacturing industries that continues to increase.
  

Stretch and Shrink Films Market Share

The stretch and shrink films industry is made up by several major companies including Amcor plc, SABIC, Sigmatech, Ltd., Sealed Air Corporation, and Intertape Polymer Group, which account for a combined share of more than 15.8% of the market by 2025. Amcor uses ecological innovations to promote sustainability, SABIC specializes in manufacturing high-performance polymers, Sealed Air develops packaging to improve product protection, Intertape and SIGMA continue to focus on product customization and versatility.

Smaller niche businesses are also breaking into this market and creating unique product offerings of innovative films targeted toward niche industrial markets. And they are also driving customization and sustainability within the packaging arena.

Stretch and Shrink Films Market Companies

Prominent players operating in the stretch and shrink films industry are as mentioned below:

• Amcor plc
• A-Z Packaging
• Balcan Innovations Inc
• Berry Global Inc.
• Bollore Inc
• Coveris Holdings S.A.
• Dow
• Film Source Packaging
• HIPAC Spa
• Intertape Polymer Group Inc.
• Italdibipack SpA
• Klöckner Pentaplast
• LUBAN PACK
• LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
• Paragon Films
• RKW Group
• SABIC
• Scientex Berhad
• Sealed Air
• Shaktiman Packaging Pvt. Ltd.
• Sigma Plastics Group
  
• Amcor plc

Amcor plc is the leading player in the market for flexibility in sustainably focused eco-package innovations, with a focus on developing flexible packaging solutions that are both high-quality and recyclable while also providing the solution to the growing demand for recyclable stretch and shrink films with reduced environmental impact.

• SABIC

SABIC offers solutions to manufacturers of stretch and shrink film, along with custom manufacturing options to produce films using high-performing polymers, which allows manufacturers to maximise the durability of stretch and shrink film and provides recyclability.

• Sealed Air
  Sealed Air is a leader in providing protective packaging solutions to manufacturers and distributors of products. Their innovative film products reduce costs and improve the safety of products during transport and are designed to reduce waste and provide more effective packaging designs, providing the strongest possible protection for an extensive variety of products.
  
• Intertape Polymer Group Inc.
  Intertape Polymer Group, a subsidiary of Intertape Corp, is highly diversified and provides a complete range of flexible packaging solutions to customers in various applications, from food service to manufacturing. Intertape provides a wide variety of stretch and shrink films and can custom design their films for specific customer applications.

 

• Sigma Plastics Group
  Sigma Plastics Group produces a wide variety of stretch and shrink film products and provides customers with the resources to meet their individual needs, including quality and design. Sigma has developed their brand by developing innovative film products and expanding their market reach internationally.
  

Stretch and Shrink Films Industry News

• In April 2024, Chemco Group launched a new stretch film line with a production capacity exceeding 1,000 tons annually. The stretch film is designed for diverse sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and logistics. With this addition, Chemco enhances its position as a comprehensive packaging solutions provider, offering an extensive range of products under one roof. 
  
• In February 2024, Intertape Polymer Group (IPG) introduced ExlfilmPlus PCR, which is a polyolefin shrink film that has 35% post-consumer recycled content. This product is manufactured using an environmentally friendly process that incorporates 10% certified Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) material and 25% Post-Industrial Recycled (PIR) material. The thinner gauges used in this film will help customers in reducing their material usage of this product by approximately 9%, while at the same time providing a viable solution that meets the growing demand for green packaging products without compromising on performance.
  
• In 2022, Coveris launched its new product called FilmLiteR Stretch, a super lightweight stretch film meeting UK Plastic Packaging Tax standards by incorporating a minimum of 30% recycled material. Additionally, it is fully recyclable after use.
  

The stretch and shrink films market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2022 – 2035 for the following segments:

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Market, By Material          

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Biodegradable and compostable
• Others

Market, By Product

• Hoods
• Sleeves and labels
• Wraps

Market, By Thickness Type

• Very thin / downgauged films (5-15 μm)
• Standard commercial films (15-25 μm)
• Heavy-duty films (25-50 μm)
• Ultra-heavy / specialty gauges (50 μm and above)

Market, By Application

• Consumer goods
• Food & beverage
• Industrial packaging
• Logistics & transportation
• Pharmaceuticals
• 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
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE