The global e-commerce packaging market recorded strong growth in 2025 and is projected to continue expanding through 2031, driven by the ongoing shift from physical to online retail, rising sustainability expectations, and evolving packaging formats.
Regulatory pressure and consumer demand are pushing the industry towards more efficient, lower-impact solutions across all regions. Corrugated boxes will remain the dominant packaging format but are set to lose market share as right-sizing reduces overall shipment volumes. Flexible packaging is expected to be the standout growth category over the same period, outpacing other formats on the strength of its efficiency and sustainability credentials.
The data and analysis in this report is drawn from Smithers’ primary research and authored by specialists with extensive hands-on experience across the packaging industry, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and relevance.
Key questions answered within this report
- Which product categories are seeing the fastest migration from corrugated board to flexible packaging?
- How are manufacturers and brands managing the cost and supply chain implications of switching from traditional plastics to fibre-based materials and bioplastics at scale?
- Which markets are leading the push for mandatory reuse and refill requirements, and how are global brands adapting their packaging strategies to meet differing regional regulations?
About the author
Windsor Holden is a payments and technology consultant with over 25 years’ industry experience. He spent eight years at Juniper Research leading its Digital Payments Stream and heading Forecasting & Consultancy, and has since provided payments research and forecasts to clients including PSE and Kaleido Intelligence. A regular speaker at major industry events across Europe, he is known for his interdisciplinary approach and commitment to producing relevant, timely research that is responsive to real-world needs.About Smithers Market Intelligence
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