Wicketed Bag Market

Wicketed Bag Market Size

The global wicketed bag market was estimated at USD 5.09 billion in 2024 and with 847,758 million units. The market is expected to grow from USD 5.20 billion in 2025 to USD 5.96 billion in 2030 and USD 6.87 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period of 2025–2034, according to Global Market Insights Inc.

• The growing global food industry is a major factor expected to drive the growth of wicketed bags as they are widely used in packaging of various food items such as bread, frozen food etc.    
  
• According to the Statista, the food market is reaching USD 9.45 Tn in 2025 with rising online sales and meat demand, will drive the wicketed bag demand. Wicketed bags deliver quick, hygienic packaging solutions, while maintaining freshness and extending shelf life. The rapidly increasing global packaged food consumption is the core growth driver for the wicketed bag market. Urban living and busy lifestyles are leading consumers to prefer ready-made, frozen, or bakery products which are contributing to overall demand for more efficient and hygienic packaging. Wicketed bags are also popular because they preserve freshness, increase shelf life, and offer great convenience to manufacturers and consumers.
  
• Furthermore, manufacturers are adhering to food safety standards which necessitate packaging to secure the integrity of the product and minimize contamination risks. Wicketed bags offer perfect compatibility with automated filling systems, thus increasing manufacturing speed and efficiency. Since large quantities of packaged food require large-scale food processing facilities, it has helped to rapidly grow the market in recent years.
  
• The rapid growth of e-commerce and organized retail sectors is creating strong demand for wicketed bags, particularly for secure and flexible packaging. With the surge in online shopping, efficient packaging that ensures product protection during storage, handling, and delivery has become a priority. Wicketed bags offer durability, transparency, and ease of customization, which appeals to both retailers and logistics providers aiming to enhance customer experience. In addition, the expansion of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores increases the requirement for attractive and functional packaging that supports brand visibility.
  

Wicketed Bag Market Trends

• Wicketed bags have been highly in demand due to the advancement of automated packaging lines to maximize production speed of filling, sealing and labeling the bags. This trend of automation also improves aspects such as total efficiency, reduces reliance on labor, and caters specifically to high-speed industries such as food processing and consumer goods.
  
• Wicketed bags with custom printing, windows, and unique designs have grown in demand. These changes indicate growth in competition amongst brands that utilize packaging as an advertising tool to entice consumers and differentiate their product in retail settings.
  
• Sustainability became a major product trend with respect to the wicketed bag market. Manufacturers embraced recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable materials to address increasing consumer expectations and regulatory pressures, and in line with the global initiatives to reduce plastic waste and pollution.
  
• Businesses in the wicketed bag industry have pursued more mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships to improve their production capabilities and expand their global footprints. This trend help consolidate the business landscape and also helps companies take advantage of increased demand in e-commerce and retail packaging.
  

Wicketed Bag Market Analysis

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

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Based on material type, the market is segmented into Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyester (PET), and biodegradable plastics. The Polyethylene (PE) segment accounts for the highest market share of 67% and the biodegradable plastics segment is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 10.5% during the forecast period.

• The Polyethylene (PE) segment was the largest market and was valued at USD 3.41 billion in 2024. The adoption of polyethylene is largely driven by its combination of flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making it highly suitable for integration into high-volume packaging applications. Its widespread use is particularly evident in food, retail, and healthcare packaging, where performance and reliability are critical. Furthermore, polyethylene’s compatibility with automated filling systems supports high-speed throughput and consistent dependability, reinforcing its position as a preferred material in industries that demand both operational efficiency and scalability.
  
• The biodegradable plastics segment is the fastest growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period. Environmental concerns and regulations of single-use plastics are propelling the acceptance of biodegradable wicketed bags in foodservice, organic, and upscale retail segments.
  
• Compostable, bio-based packaging like PLA and starch blends are adopted, however, scalability and cost are challenges for wide adoption. Pilot-market compostable packages with upscale or organic food brands and commit to consumer education to segment green offerings within saturated markets.
  

Learn more about the key segments shaping this market

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Based on product type, the wicketed bag market is segmented into plain wicketed bags, printed wicketed bags, perforated wicketed bags, bottom-gusseted wicketed bags, side-gusseted wicketed bags, zipper wicketed bags, and ventilated/mesh wicketed bags. The plain wicketed bags segment accounts for the highest market share of 20% in 2024.

• The plain wicketed bags was the largest segment and accounted for USD 1.02 billion in 2024. Plain wicketed bags are widely used in automatic packaging due to ease and cost-effectiveness. Compatibility with filling machines at high rates in food and industrial sectors drives demand, especially for bulk packaging of goods like bread, fresh fruits and vegetables, and hardware. There is a change towards minimal packaging in bulk and B2B environments where branding is less important, but cost control and operation efficiency are of extreme importance.
  

• The zipper wicketed bags is the fastest-growing market and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period. Zipper wicketed bags ensure resealability, and thus they are ideal for multi-use products, including snacks, frozen foods, and pharmaceuticals. They are becoming increasingly popular in retail and food sectors due to the preference of consumers for convenience. Moreover, there is more demand for child-resistant and tamper-proof zipper solutions, especially in the healthcare, nutraceuticals, and cannabis packaging sectors. Develop innovative zipper closures, like easy-pull and child-safe ones, and meet high-value product segments demanding functionality as well as safety features.
  

On the basis of application, the wicketed bag market is segmented into food & beverage, healthcare & medical, personal care & cosmetics, retail & consumer goods, industrial packaging, e-commerce/courier, and others. The food & beverage segment accounts for the highest market share of 37.7% in 2024 and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 2.6% during the forecast period.

• The food & beverage segment was the largest market and was valued at USD 1.81 billion in 2024. Growing demand for packaged, ready-to-use, and sanitary foods is driving the use of wicketed bags due to their suitability for automation, simplicity of use, and shelf-life extension properties especially in bakery, meat, fresh produce, and frozen food applications. Sustainable packaging, resealability, and regulatory compliance are the key trends in food & beverages segment. Businesses are shifting towards recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable wicketed bags with priorities on moisture resistance, product visibility, and hygiene in primary food packaging. Introduce recyclable or compostable wicketed bag structures with moisture barriers and transparent windows.
  
• The healthcare & medical segment was the fastest growing segment and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period. Growing demand for single-use, sterile, and tamper-evident packaging in home healthcare, diagnostic laboratories, and hospitals fuels market growth. Wicketed bags are highly compatible with high-speed automation, sterilization, and contamination avoidance in the medical packaging use. Healthcare home economies and increased production of disposable medical supplies are driving demand for pre-sterilized, puncture-resistant wicketed bags according to ISO and FDA standards.
  

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The North America wicketed bag market held 37.2% market share in 2024 and is growing at a 1.7% CAGR, is driven by rising demand for sustainable packaging in food and healthcare sectors, supported by advanced automation and e-commerce expansion, enhancing the need for efficient, hygienic wicketed bags across retail and industrial applications.

• The wicketed bag market in the U.S. has been expanding steadily, achieving a CAGR of 1.4% and reaching a valuation of USD 1.41 billion in 2024. The U.S. market is influenced in large part by the growing food processing and packaging industry. The largest end-use segments are bakery, frozen foods, and fresh produce. The growth of bakery, frozen or refrigerated foods, and fresh produce is driving demand for convenience packaging that is hygienic, aesthetically pleasing, and efficient from a packaging throughput standpoint.
  
• Opportunity in the U.S. market, includes growth in sustainable materials and innovation initiatives to meet growing eco-conscious consumers and regulations. Customization and branding could allow different brands of products to stand apart with these wicketed bags. In the healthcare and pharmaceutical packaging markets, there is growth that could help expand the market based on ever increasing need for sterile and tamper-resistant packaging.
  

• The Canada market is projected to grow significantly with a CAGR of 2.4% during the forecast period. In Canada, the growth of the wicketed bag market is driven by food safety and hygiene provisions imposed on the food processing industry. A growing demand for lightweight and flexible packaging by the bakery and fresh produce markets will drive growth. Moreover, growth in online grocery shopping and home meal delivery services in urban areas will drive demand for innovative and durable food packaging, with wicket bags being a sustainable option.
  

Europe wicketed bags held a 24.3% share in 2024 and a 2.4% CAGR, due to strict environmental regulations and consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging propel adoption of biodegradable wicketed bags, alongside strong food processing industries and increasing use of customization and automation technologies.

• Germany wicketed bag market reached a valuation of USD 274.8 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 2% during the forecast period. Germany market is supported by the country's robust food processing and food retail sectors, which have put an emphasis on quality and sustainable packaging. Increasing pressure from consumers for environmentally friendly products, and strict packaging regulations, will lead manufacturers to utilize recyclable and biodegradable wicketed bags. Also, Germany's advanced automated packaging line infrastructure will further bolster efficiencies and adoption in different industries for wicketed bag capabilities.
  
• The UK wicketed bag market is anticipated to surpass USD 250.2 million by 2034. The UK industry is growing partly due to increasing industry demand in the bakery, fresh produce, and frozen goods markets-emphasizing the need for convenience and hygiene. Growth in online grocery shopping and food home delivery services have escalated the need for durable, easy-to-use packaging solutions like wicketed bags. Governmental regulations hoping to alleviate plastic waste has also driven opportunities to use sustainable alternatives. Innovation in eco-friendly wicketed bags that meet increasing plastic legislation and consumer sustainability demands could be explored for the UK market.
  

The Asia-Pacific region has significant share in the wicketed bag market and accounted for 21.2% of the total market share. Rapid urbanization, expanding food processing sectors, and growing e-commerce fuel wicketed bag demand, with rising consumer focus on convenience and hygiene driving packaging innovations across emerging markets.

• China market was valued at USD 333.9 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period. The growth of China’s wicketed bag industry is supported by a swift rate of urbanization and the growth of the food processing market. As the country's middle class increasingly chooses packaged convenience foods, and retail chains continue to expand, demand for efficient, convenient, and hygienic packaging will continue to grow. The increased use of eco-friendly packaging materials, supported by government programs, is also driving the move to wicketed bags as a replacement for old packaging materials. Moreover, China presents a significant opportunity in the expansion of sustainable biodegradable and recyclable wicketed bag production to satisfy stringent environmental policies.
  
• Japan market has been experiencing steady expansion, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 4% and attaining a valuation of USD 156.7 million in 2024. The wicketed bag market in Japan is driven by a focus on high levels of food safety and packaging innovation. The convenience store emphasis and demand for ready-to-eat meals drive innovation in packaging that's convenient, and demands reliable, easy-to-open products. To lower food waste, Japan's emphasis on waste reduction also supports sustainable wicketed bag materials.
  
• India wicketed bag market was valued at USD 220.4 million in 2024 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period. India’s market growth is fueled by rapid expansion in food processing and retail sectors, driven by rising urban populations and changing lifestyles. Increasing demand for packaged bakery, fresh produce, and frozen foods encourages adoption of wicketed bags. The rise of modern retail formats and e-commerce further boosts market growth. Additionally, the growth of modern retail formats and e-commerce is expected to further drive the growth of the India market.
  

Latin America held 10.4% market share and is growing with a CAGR of 3.9%. Market growth stems from modernization of food retail, rising packaged food consumption, and expanding bakery and frozen food industries, which increase demand for versatile & cost-effective wicketed bag solutions.

The Middle East & Africa wicketed bag market was valued at USD 345.8 million in 2024. The increase urbanization, foodservice and retail sectors, and government occupations that promote sustainable packaging drive demand for wicketed bags, along with rising e-commerce and growing consumer awareness of product safety.

• The South Africa wicketed bag industry is projected to grow with a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period, driven by the growing food processing and retail markets, especially in the bakery & fresh produce packaging sectors. The growth of consumer demand for convenience and hygienically packaged products, along with urbanization, expansion of supermarkets and hypermarkets, has supported this market growth. Furthermore, drive to increase food safety standards has led to increased uptake of wicketed bags.
  
• The Saudi Arabia wicketed bag market is projected to surpass USD 146.6 million by 2034. The wicketed bag industry in Saudi Arabia is driven by ongoing urbanization and increased demand in the foodservice & retail channels. The country's rising hospitality sector & demand for packaged & convenience foods is supporting the shift in consumption patterns, which is very important aspects of the market. Further, government regulations regarding sustainable packaging are also critical components of the market dynamics & strategy.
  
• The wicketed bag market in UAE accounted for USD 68.5 million in 2024. The growth of the market in the UAE is fueled by a dynamic retail and foodservice environment, and increased needs for hygienic packaging and convenience. As a regional trade hub, the UAE's adoption of advanced packaging solutions, including wicketed bags, is increasing to serve more varied consumer demands.
  

Wicketed Bag Market Share

• The top 5 companies Berry Global Inc., Mondi Group, Sonoco Products Company, Uflex Ltd., and Amcor plc collectively hold around 58.5% of the market, indicating a consolidated market concentration.
  
• Berry Global Inc. has a commanding 17.5% market share. Berry Global Inc. utilizes its enormous global manufacturing footprint and expertise with engineered materials to create high-performance sustainable wicketed bag solutions. The company is focused on vertical integration to achieve efficiencies in cost and additional control over sourcing of raw materials. Berry's competitive advantage is their commitment to recyclability and circular economics, including partnerships for closed-loop recycling and sourcing. They are also focused on custom solutions for food and industrial applications and enabled through advanced automation compatibility.
  
• Mondi Group holds a major position in the market, accounting for 13% of the total market share. Mondi Group stresses the importance of leading with sustainable packaging, with a focus on the innovative use of recyclable and compostable wicketed bags for food and consumer goods. With a strong R&D backbone and customer-focused design labs, Mondi is tailoring solutions for regionally specific regulations and brand specific performance needs, maintaining connections with customers throughout the entire value chain.
  
• Sonoco Products Company is a key player in the wicketed bag market and holds 10.5% of the total market share. Sonoco's competitive strategy relies on diversification, and a focus on offering high value packaging solutions specifically for healthcare, retail, and industrial customers. Sonoco uses its strong material science and smart packaging capabilities to offer integration of labeling, traceability, and protection to wicketed bags.
  
• Uflex Ltd. also held 8.5% of the total market share. Uflex Ltd. strives to differentiate itself in the market by creating a fully integrated packaging ecosystem from the manufacture of polymers, via printing and converting, Uflex has utilized this ecosystem to take full control of quality, innovation and cost. Uflex's strategy will be geared to high-speed, custom wicketed bags within the food, pharma and personal care markets. Uflex's plan is to make wicketed bags utilizing cutting edge technology, along with rapid prototyping capabilities.
  

Wicketed Bag Market Companies

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

• Berry Global Inc.
• Advance Packaging
• Amcor plc
• Bischof + Klein
• Cascades
• Coveris Holdings S.A.
• Graphic Packaging International
• Imperial Bag and Paper
• International Paper
• Mondi Group
• Novolex Holdings Inc.
• Pack Tech
• ProAmpac
• Royal Bags
• Sealed Air
• Sonoco Products Company
• Uflex Ltd.
  
• Berry Global Inc., Amcor plc, Mondi Group, Sonoco Products Company, and Uflex Ltd. are positioned as market leaders in the wicketed bags industry. These companies continue to have an edge due to their global footprints, state-of-the-art R&D, and high-volume manufacturing capabilities. Berry and Amcor lead with their sustainable innovations and solutions for automation. Mondi is focused on recyclable and sustainable packaging and Sonoco has a diverse portfolio. Uflex has a vertically integrated operation, and a strong position in growth markets to continually set the bar for innovation and scale.
  
• ProAmpac, Novolex Holdings Inc., Coveris Holdings S.A., International Paper, and Graphic Packaging International are categorized as challengers. These companies are making strides through strategic mergers and acquisitions, expansions of product categories, and sustainability investments. ProAmpac and Novolex are making excellent progress in flexible packaging while Coveris is targeting custom solutions for European markets. International Paper and Graphic Packaging are utilizing their historical knowledge of paper packaging to compete in flexible formats. As they continue to build their innovation capabilities and regional strength, they will be considered strong candidates to compete for leadership moving forward.
  
• Bischof + Klein, Cascades, Imperial Bag and Paper, and Pack Tech fall into the follower’s category. These companies maintain moderate market presence and serve specific geographies or industry segments. Bischof + Klein, and Cascades, are focused on reliability and environmental compliance, Imperial Bag and Paper sell wholesale and B2B packaging in North America, and Pack Tech services their mid-size clients by offering standard wicketed bags. Overall, their operations are stable and they do tend to follow innovation trends instead of leading.
  
• Advance Packaging, Royal Bags, and Sealed Air are identified as niche players in the wicketed bags market. These companies focus on providing personalized, short-runs, or highly specialized packaging. Advance Packaging and Royal Bags offer flexible packaging solutions for retail and private label.
  

Wicketed Bag Industry News

• In December 2024, Klabin launched a Wicket Paper Bag for diaper packaging in Brazil, made from 100% recyclable and repulpable paper. Developed in partnership with Optima and Soulpack, the sustainable wicketed bag was compatible with existing packaging machinery, requiring no new investment. The innovation aligned with global eco-packaging trends, offering a cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional plastic wicketed bags.
  

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

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Market, By Material Type

• Polyethylene (PE)
  • Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE)
  • High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Polyester (PET)
• Biodegradable plastics

Market, By Product Type

• Plain wicketed bags
• Printed wicketed bags
• Perforated wicketed bags
• Bottom-gusseted wicketed bags
• Side-gusseted wicketed bags
• Zipper wicketed bags
• Ventilated/mesh wicketed bags

Market, By Bag Capacity

• Up to 1 lb
• 1–5 lbs
• 5–10 lbs
• 10–25 lbs
• Above 25 lbs

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Direct sales (B2B)
• Distributors/wholesalers
• Online retail

Market, By Application

• Food & beverage
  • Bakery products (bread, buns)
  • Frozen foods (meat, seafood)
  • Snacks & confectionery
  • Dairy products
• Healthcare & medical
  • Surgical kits
  • Medical devices
•  Personal care & cosmetics
  • Disposable products
  • Cosmetic kits
• Retail & consumer goods
  • Apparel
  • Toys
• Industrial packaging
  • Spare parts
  • Electrical components
• E-commerce / courier
• 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