SQUEEZE TUBE PACKAGING MARKET ANALYSIS

Squeeze Tube Packaging Market Size and Trends

The squeeze tube packaging market is estimated to be valued at USD 8.40 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 12.60 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2024 to 2031.

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Rising demand from the skincare and cosmetics industry along with increasing preference for portable and travel-friendly packaging drives the market growth. Growing health and hygiene awareness post-COVID-19 pandemic has further propelled the demand for squeeze tubes from the handwash and sanitizer industry. Expanding retail channels especially e-commerce is also contributing to the market growth.

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Insights, By Material Type: Affordability and Versatility Drive Aluminum's Dominance in Squeeze Tube Packaging Market

In terms of material type, the aluminum segment is expected to contribute 44.4% share of the market share in 2024. When it comes to material selection for squeeze tube packaging, aluminum offers manufacturers unparalleled versatility and cost-effectiveness. Aluminum tubes can be produced in a wide variety of sizes, from small introductory samples to larger single-use containers. They are lightweight yet durable, making them an economical option for products shipped domestically and internationally.

Aluminum is 100% recyclable and produces minimal waste during manufacturing compared to other materials. This eco-friendly attribute appeals strongly to brand owners seeking sustainable packaging solutions. It can be formed into intricately shaped tubes to showcase premium branding and graphics. Aluminum is also fully customizable with options for printing, coating, and embossing without compromising integrity or shelf life.

Insights By Application: Oral Care Drives Squeeze Tube Packaging Demand through Sample Distribution and Portability

In terms of application, oral care is expected to contribute 39.6% share of the market in 2024. Within the market, oral care enjoys the highest demand due to the segment's unique packaging needs. Squeeze tubes are perfectly suited for precisely dispensing and applying small doses of gels, pastes, and liquids onto toothbrushes.

Their portability makes squeeze tubes ideal vehicles for distributing introductory samples through dental offices, retailers, and direct mailings. This builds brand awareness while allowing consumers to trial new products. Squeeze tubes containing full-sized portions also lend convenience when brushing on the go or while traveling. Oral care formulations can be expensive to purchase in full-size formats before testing compatibility with one's oral health needs and tastes. 

Regional Insights

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Regional Analysis: Squeeze Tube Packaging Market

Dominating Region: Europe

Europe is expected to account for the greatest revenue share, with 35.3% in 2024. In Europe, the dominance in the squeeze tube packaging market can be attributed to the strong presence of major manufacturers in countries like the U.K., Germany, etc. The region has a well-established market ecosystem and supply chain for personal care and healthcare products where squeeze tubes are widely used. Stringent packaging regulations provide impetus for innovation among tube makers to develop sustainable options.

Fastest-Growing Region: Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region exhibits the fastest growth in this market riding on the coat tails of expanding personal care and pharmaceutical industries. Developing economies like India and China contribute significantly to the regional growth owing to rising spending power, shift in lifestyle preferences, and growing health awareness.

Squeeze Tube Packaging Market Outlook for Key Countries

U.S.: Squeeze tube packaging market in the U.S. is driven by leading domestic brands with a focus on premium products packaged in innovative tube designs.

China: Squeeze tube packaging market growth in China outpaces other countries on account of a large population base and rapid urbanization.

India: India continues to lead the APAC market given its low manufacturing costs and a thriving domestic industry. Companies like Pratibha Industries and others stimulate market growth through extensive production capabilities.

Germany: Squeeze tube packaging market in Germany is supported by major global brands and stringent packaging norms that favor sustainable tube material options from suppliers like Airless.

Brazil: The market growth in the Brazil is growing alongside economic recovery and increasing health investments.

Market Concentration and Competitive Landscape

Top Strategies Followed by Squeeze Tube Packaging Market Players

• Established players in this market focus extensively on research and development to innovate new product formulations and packaging technologies. Companies like Albéa, Amcor, and Essel Propack invest heavily in R&D each year to develop high-performance tubes made of advanced materials with improved features.
• Mid-sized players in the market sustain competition through cost-effective product offerings. They deliver quality squeeze tubes and packaging solutions at competitive prices to attract cost-conscious consumers. These companies often collaborate with packaging converters and fillers to enhance production capabilities and expand service offerings. Some mid-level players also partner with startups bringing new technologies to boost innovation and drive long-term growth.
• Small packaging manufacturers leverage niche specialization to carve out market share. They target specific industries, applications or geographic regions with uniquely customized tubes. Some small players adopt cutting-edge digital printing, coating, and sealing technologies to provide differentiated solutions.

Emerging Startups in the Squeeze Tube Packaging Market

Several startups are developing innovative technologies to disrupt this market. Some focus on incorporating smart sensors into tubes to enable traceability, collect usage data, and assist refills. Startups are also applying advanced analytics, computer vision, and Internet of things (IoT) to optimize packaging workflows.

Sustainability is a key area attracting startups. Some innovative companies are creating tubes from renewable, recycled, or compostable materials to reduce waste. Other startups offer sustainable tube filling and sealing equipment. Their eco-friendly solutions can significantly lower the industry's carbon footprint over time.

Many startups focusing on niche market needs by providing customized tubes for specific product categories such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare. Some partner with manufacturers to develop innovative packaging for new product launches. 

Squeeze Tube Packaging Industry News

• In February 2021, Hoffman Neopack AG introduced a lighter plastic tube solution that uses up to 30% fewer virgin materials. This tube is the newest addition to the company’s EcoDesign series of environment-friendly tubes. It aligns with the packaging industry’s vision to reduce carbon footprint and materials waste. Hoffmann Neopac is a globally active Switzerland-based family company with more than 100 years of tradition. As a leading provider of packaging, produce high-quality Polyfoil, polyethylene and COEX tubes for pharmaceutical, cosmetics and dental products, as well as decorative metal tins for tobacco, confectionery, food and non-food products.
• In January 2020, Albea Group started the construction of a new facility in Huai’an, Jiangsu province, north of Shanghai, China. The expansion will include the production of new injection, decoration, and assembly equipment to satisfy the increasing demand from both domestic and foreign beauty brands. Albéa Group is a leading global provider of cosmetic packaging solutions, recognized as the world's largest supplier in this sector. The company has deep roots in France and operates 35 facilities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, employing around 12,500 people.
• In December 2020, Huhtamaki Oyj acquired Laminor S.A. (Brazil). This acquisition will help Huhtamaki Oyj to expand the tube lamination business. Huhtamaki Oyj is a global specialist in food packaging, dedicated to making every consumer experience enjoyable, consistent and safe with the right food packaging.

Key Takeaways from Analyst

• The squeeze tube packaging sector is expected to grow steadily driven by increasing demand from personal care and beauty care products. Squeeze tubes offer advantages like ease of use, controlled dispensing and product safety which is driving their uptake across industries. The flexible yet sturdy nature of tubes allows for convenient portability and transport of viscous products.
• However, fluctuations in raw material prices may negatively impact the market. Tube manufacturing requires plastic polymers and aluminum, prices of which vary frequently. Additionally, environmental concerns around non-recyclable plastic packaging pose a major challenge.
• Going forward, development of innovative tube designs catering to new product formulations as well as focus on sustainable packaging solutions will open growth opportunities. Introducing squeeze tubes made of recyclable materials can help address environmental issues while keeping costs competitive.

Market Report Scope

Market Dynamics

Market Driver - Growing demand from personal care and cosmetic industry

The personal care and cosmetics industry has been experiencing consistent growth in recent years. With increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes, consumers are placing greater emphasis on personal grooming and self-care. Additionally, the fast-paced lifestyle has heightened the demand for convenient packaging solutions that are easy to use on the go. Squeeze tube packaging is an ideal option, providing controlled and hygienic dispensing for products such as face creams, hair serums, and toothpaste.

For instance, a Deloitte report presented during a Happi Webinar in June 2023 highlighted that the middle class in Africa has tripled over the past 30 years. While it is not the wealthy, approximately one in three people are now living above the poverty line. Current projections indicate that by 2060, Africa will see an increase of 1.1 billion people (42%) joining the middle class. Remarkably, seven of the ten fastest-growing economies in the world are located in Africa. According to Deloitte, wealth is increasingly being distributed, making Africa home to the world's fastest-growing middle class.

Market Challenge - Fluctuating raw material prices

The squeeze tube packaging sector is facing challenges due to fluctuating prices of raw materials used to manufacture tubes. Plastic polymers like Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), and aluminum, which are key raw materials, have witnessed high price volatility in the past year affecting packaging manufacturers. The uncertainty caused by changing prices makes it difficult for companies to arrive at optimal production cost. Moreover, plastic polymers are crude oil derivatives and fluctuations in global oil prices automatically impacts raw material costs. Sudden price hikes reduce profit margins, while drops in rates negatively impact the top-line of companies.

For example, during mid-2021 when input costs rose sharply, several personal care and food product manufacturers halted new squeeze tube packaging launches, preferring stable rigid plastic packaging instead. Manufacturers struggle to transfer increased costs to brand owners and end consumers directly leading to immediate loss of business. The unpredictability in sourcing crucial inputs at affordable rates poses significant squeeze tube packaging risks for participants.

Market Opportunity - Product innovation and development of sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions

The squeeze tube packaging sector sees huge opportunities through constant innovation and development of environment friendly products. As sustainability becomes a major purchase criterion, companies are investing in R&D to launch tubes made from renewable, recycled and recyclable materials. Bioplastics obtained from sugarcane or plant-based resins are gaining popularity.

For instance, according to United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)reports from 2023, enabling reuse and improving recyclability are critical to curb plastic pollution which is projected to triple by 2040 if no action is taken. Innovation in squeeze tube design can thus have large positive impact on sustainability while future-proofing growth in the squeeze tube packaging sector. Efforts are also on to enhance the recyclability of aluminum tubes. Participants partner with brand owners proactively to replace non-recyclable multi-layer tubes.

Market Segmentation

•  Material Type Insights (Revenue, USD, 2019 - 2031)
• • Aluminum
  • Plastic
  • Laminated
  • Others
•  Application Insights (Revenue, USD, 2019 - 2031)
• • Oral Care
  • Beauty & Cosmetics
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Food & Beverages
  • Others
• Regional Insights (Revenue, USD, 2019 - 2031)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • Rest of Middle East
  • Africa
    • South Africa
    • North Africa
    • Central Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • Amcor Limited
  • Essel Propack Limited
  • Albea S.A.
  • Huhtamaki OYJ
  • Berry Global Inc.
  • Intrapac International Corporation
  • Montebello Packaging Inc.
  • Worldwide Packaging Inc.
  • Romaco Group
  • Hoffman Neopac AG
  • VisiPak
  • Sonoco Products Company
  • Clariant