Retail Ready Packaging Market by Material (Paper & Paperboard, Plastic, and Others), By Package Type, By End User, - Global Industry Outlook, Key Companies (DS Smith plc., Smurfit Kappa Group plc., WestRock Company, and Others), Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) is packaging for convenient stocking, recognizability, and retail purchase at stores. Packages make shelves more inviting, simplify handling, and save time in reordering and hence become a preferred alternative for both brands and stores. RRP comes in many forms, such as in corrugated cases, trays, & folded cartons, which are used for storing and showcasing merchandise. It is used in foods and beverages, consumer goods, and cosmetics industries and is growing at a high rate due to a growing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly packaging. Ease and value in visual merchandising through RRP have prompted its use in new retail formats at a larger level.

The global retail-ready packaging market is developing at a robust pace, spurred by increased demand for efficient in-shop operations and sustainability concerns. Manufacturers are shifting towards lighter & recycled packaging materials in a quest to abide by stricter environmental legislation and regulations. Expansion in organized retail, retailing through e-commerce, and urbanization are other drivers of demand in the market. North America and Europe have a high presence, and Asia-Pacific is developing at a high velocity, spurred by high-speed industrialization and transforming retail environments. Participants in the market are investing in technological innovation, automation, and smart packaging technology in an attempt to differentiate and streamline operations in the value chain.

The driving impulses for the market include increased demand for retailer-shelf-ready packaging for reduced store operations and reduced labor costs. There is increased demand for recycled and environmentally friendly packaging materials, and companies have begun creating environmentally friendly options for RRP in reaction to such demand. There is increased demand for packaged foods, beverages, and FMCG goods, and an increase in big retail stores and supermarkets, driving demand for such packaging options in the market. There is increased use of smart packaging and digital printing technology, creating a boost in branding and connecting with buyers, and driving demand for such packaging options in the market.

The retail-ready packaging market has numerous avenues for growth, most of them through packaging materials and digital printing technology innovation. Biodegradable and compostable packaging continues to gain traction with increased concerns for the environment. There is a lot of room for expansion in the market through emerging economies in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, growing in prominence. Online retail expansion has created new avenues for RRP solutions that can make delivery in the last mile efficient and less costly. Brands investing in smart packaging, such as QR codes and augmented reality, can benefit even more through increased demand for immersive and personalized experiences.

Some of the most important providers in the global retail-ready packaging market include large packaging companies such as Smurfit Kappa Group, DS Smith, Mondi Group, International Paper, and WestRock. All these companies have been investing a lot in research and development in an attempt to introduce new, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives. All these companies have been expanding geographically through acquisitions and partnerships with large retail companies and FMCG brands.

Some of the most important companies include Georgia-Pacific, Amcor, and Packaging Corporation of America, and these companies have been investing in smart packaging and digital printing technology in an attempt to enhance brand awareness and differentiation in competitive retail environments. A variety of industry events and trade fairs act to promote forums for innovation, networking, and business in retail-ready packaging.

Some events include the Packaging Innovations Exhibition, Interpack, and PACK EXPO, through which new trends in packaging, automation, and digital technology are initiated in companies. Conferences such as the Sustainable Packaging Forum and the Global Packaging Summit act to assemble leaders in retail-ready packaging in a review of trends, new legislation, and emerging trends. Through such events, alliances, and alliances for future collaboration form, companies can gain a competitive edge in an increasingly changing market.

The US Retail Ready Packaging Market

The US Retail Ready Packaging market is projected to be valued at USD 28.4 billion in 2025. It is expected to witness subsequent growth in the upcoming period as it holds USD 44.7 billion in 2034 at a CAGR of 5.2%.

The demand for efficiency in merchandising and supply operations in the US retail ready packaging (RRP) market is driven by increased demand for bulk merchandise ease in store and merchandisers, such as Costco and Walmart, and for increased store-shelf visibility, reduced labor cost, and increased pace of product replenishment. With the increased demand for bulk store ease in working with merchandise, such as Costco and Walmart, and for increased store-shelf visibility, reduced labor expense, and increased pace of product replenishment, demand for efficiency in merchandising and 

supply operations in the US retail ready packaging (RRP) market is driven.

The application of digital printing for individualization and branding is becoming ever more widespread, and producers can use it to maximize both shelf presence and customer contact. Slim and simple packaging forms are increasingly in demand to reduce packaging loss and shipping costs. Packaging line automation is becoming an ever-growing imperative to maximize efficiency and uniformity. There is a growing demand for flexible options for RRPs that function effectively in both retail stores and electronic retail fulfillment, offering unobstructed merchandise visualization and protection.

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market: Key Takeaways

• Market Growth: The global Retail Ready Packaging market is anticipated to expand by USD 53.4 billion, achieving a CAGR of 5.5% from 2026 to 2034.
• Material Analysis: Paper and paperboard are predicted to dominate the global market with a revenue share based on product by the end of 2025.
• Package Type Analysis: Corrugated cardboard boxes are predicted to dominate the market with the highest revenue share in 2025.
• End User Analysis: The Food & Beverage sector is predicted to lead the global market with the highest market share in 2025.
• Regional Analysis: North America is projected to dominate the global Retail Ready Packaging market, holding a market share of 36.1% by 2025.
• Prominent Players: Some of the major key players in the Global Retail Ready Packaging Market are DS Smith plc. , Smurfit Kappa Group plc, WestRock Company, and many others.

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market: Use Cases

• Faster Shelf Stocking: Retail-ready packaging simplifies restocking by allowing entire cases to be placed directly on shelves, reducing handling time. This efficiency minimizes labor costs, enhances store operations, and ensures products are always available for customers, leading to better inventory management and improved sales performance.
• Enhanced Product Visibility: Designed with strategic branding, clear labeling, and easy accessibility, retail-ready packaging enhances shelf appeal. It attracts customers, boosts impulse purchases, and ensures a consistent brand presence in stores. Well-structured packaging also prevents product damage and maintains neat, organized displays, improving the overall shopping experience.
• Sustainability & Waste Reduction: Many retail-ready packaging solutions are made from recyclable or biodegradable materials, reducing environmental impact. By eliminating excess packaging and optimizing material use, companies can lower waste, comply with sustainability regulations, and appeal to eco-conscious consumers, enhancing their brand reputation and commitment to green practices.
• Improved Supply Chain Efficiency: Retail ready packaging streamlines the logistics process by optimizing product transportation, storage, and handling. It reduces packaging waste, minimizes the need for additional repacking at distribution centers, and accelerates in-store stocking. This efficiency leads to cost savings, improved product availability, and a smoother overall supply chain operation.

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market: Stats & Facts

• According to a 2022 United Nations report, plastic packaging accounts for nearly 40% of all plastic waste globally. Additionally, only 14% of plastic packaging is collected for recycling, and 40% of it is used just once before being discarded. Reusing just 10-20% of plastic packaging could cut ocean plastic waste by half.
• As per Statista, the demand for paper-based sustainable packaging is increasing. The global market for corrugated packaging is expected to reach USD 205 billion by 2025. In 2020, paper and cardboard factories worldwide produced over 400 million metric tons, with this figure projected to grow to 1.6 billion metric tons by 2032.
• A McKinsey report states that 43% of consumers consider the environmental impact of packaging to be a crucial factor in their purchasing decisions. Additionally, 50% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for products in sustainable packaging, with this number rising to 86% among younger consumers aged 18-44.
• • Consumers are showing an increasing preference for eco-friendly packaging solutions. According to a McKinsey report, 74% of consumers express interest in purchasing products in refillable packaging, while 57% are less likely to buy products in packaging they consider environmentally harmful.
• • According to McKinsey, six U.S. states—California, Colorado, Maine, Oregon, New Jersey, and Washington—have implemented Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws to shift recycling costs to plastic producers in 2023. Additionally, the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act seeks to minimize single-use plastic production.

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market: Market Dynamic

Driving Factors in the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market

Expanded Need for Effective Supply Chain Management
Efficient supply chain management is one of the primary drivers behind the growth of retail-ready packaging (RRP) which simplifies and expedites the stocking and replenishment process. It leads to significant cost-cutting benefits for retailers and manufacturers as well as improved overall productivity. RRP improves operational efficiency by minimizing handling efforts and providing quick product accessibility, increasing operational efficiencies for businesses in retail sectors with intense competition. To remain ahead, businesses prioritize packaging solutions that streamline logistics management while optimizing store management - driving increased global adoption of retail-ready packaging globally.

More Consumer Preference for Sustainable Packaging
Consumer preferences are shifting increasingly toward eco-friendly solutions for packaging materials and solutions, increasing demand for sustainable retail-ready options. With growing global concern around climate change and plastic waste, businesses are shifting toward eco-friendly packaging materials such as recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable packaging materials. Furthermore, governments around the globe have passed strict legislation restricting plastic consumption which further accelerates this transition process.

Retailers and manufacturers have increasingly made sustainable packaging a part of their strategies for brand building and customer experience, in line with regulations as well as consumer expectations. Sustainability has emerged as an influential purchasing factor and retail industries are seeing more eco-friendly retail-ready packaging solutions adopted to foster greener futures.

Restraints in the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market

Initial Investment Costs Are High
Implementing retail-ready packaging (RRP) often requires significant financial investments from businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The costs associated with designing, producing, and upgrading packaging lines may dissuade those on tight budgets from adopting RRP solutions; in addition, switching over can involve changes to supply chain infrastructure or warehouse storage facilities; this increases expenses even further for smaller organizations that find it harder justify their initial outlays compared to larger corporations absorbing those expenses more readily; high initial costs thus remain one of the primary barriers impeding widespread adoption of RRP solutions.

Branding options and customization capabilities may be limited
Retail-ready packaging may increase efficiency and convenience, yet often limits design flexibility and branding opportunities. Standardized formats prioritize functionality over aesthetics, limiting brands from creating visually striking and memorable packages for their products or attracting customers. But RRP makes this increasingly challenging due to printing or material limitations limiting creative branding efforts and hindering creative branding initiatives. As a result, companies hoping to retain strong brand identities may find RRP less suitable in terms of marketing or customer engagement strategies.

Opportunities in the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market

The rise of E-Commerce and Omnidirectional retailing
The growth in retail-ready packaging (RRP) is stimulated by increased growth in omnichannel retail and e-commerce. With the ongoing expansion in the webshop and store buying, retail companies require packaging with ease of use, in-shelf and in-transit stocking, and rapid replenishment via any sales channel. In-shelf ease and convenient access to merchandise make retail-ready packaging a perfect fit for new retail strategies. With the increased demand for blended store and webshop experiences and click-and-collect options, demand for packaging with a combination of durability, ease of use, and branding is growing. As omnichannel retail continues its growth, manufacturers have a strong opportunity to develop and react to changing packaging demand.

Technological Advancements in Packaging Design
Technology is changing retail packaging with advances in function, form, and efficiency. Trends such as smart packaging, automation, and new printing technology allow companies to promote increased connectivity and visibility for products. QR codes, augmented reality, and smart tracking technology are being added to packaging to promote increased customer engagement and transparency in the supply chain. Packaging operations are becoming increasingly automated, cutting down on waste and driving cost savings, as well. With competition for differentiation in a crowded market, new packaging technology presents a strong growth opportunity for companies investing in innovation.

Trends in the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market

Adoption of new printing technology
The rising use of digital printing is transforming retail-ready packaging with added customizability and agility. With digital printing, companies can make beautifully designed packaging with shorter runs and reduced lead times, ideal for one-off items and promotional items for a finite period. Unlike traditional printing processes, variable data printing is facilitated in digital printing, and variable packaging with variable designs for variable target groups and geographic can be produced. With less loss of materials and production costs, technology is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option. As companies prioritize agility in marketing and branding, digital printing is an emerging trend in RRP.

Increased use of Biodegradable and Recycling Materials
Sustainability is one of the key trends defining the retail packaging industry, with companies increasingly moving towards biodegradable and recyclable materials. Brands are investing in environmentally friendly alternatives such as molded pulp, corrugated cardboard, and compostable plastics in a move towards minimizing environmental footprint and adhering to circular economy values. Regulatory requirements and demand for environmentally friendly packaging options are driving companies towards such a move at a rapid pace. Several companies are even looking at new materials derived from agricultural residues and renewable biomass sources in a move toward packaging sustainability. As concerns for the environment intensify, the retail packaging sector will see increased development in terms of utilizing environmentally friendly materials in future years.

Research Scope and Analysis

By Material

Paper and paperboard are expected to lead the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) Market with the highest revenue share in 2025, due to rising consumer interest in more sustainable and eco-friendly options. As businesses and consumers make more eco-conscious choices, paper & paperboard packaging stands out as an eco-friendly alternative to plastics. Not only can it be easily recycled but biodegrades in a short amount of time too. Regulatory policies and corporate sustainability goals further facilitate this transition, making it the go-to option across various industries like food & beverage, consumer goods, and retail. 

Paperboard offers great printability and customizability options that enable brands to increase shelf appeal and marketing impact. These materials offer strength and durability for product protection while remaining easy to handle in retail environments while being sustainable, versatile, and cost-effective which qualities have solidified paper/cardboard's place as one of the premier RRP materials on the market.

Plastic remains one of the top two RRP materials due to its lightweight nature, durability, cost efficiency, and moisture-resistant surface which is ideal for perishable goods and refrigerant containers. Furthermore, biodegradable and recyclable plastic materials help retain plastic's position despite growing environmental concerns.

By Package Type

Corrugated cardboard boxes are likely to dominate the retail ready packaging (RRP) market in terms of package type with the largest revenue share in 2025, due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability driving its success. Retailers prefer them for protecting goods in transit and for ease of stocking and display. Sturdiness in structure enables stacking, minimizing damage and loss, and its durability and lightweight nature make it ideal for shipping and retail use. Sustainability is an added consideration which brands and retailers increasingly demand environmentally friendly packaging, and corrugated cardboard is both recyclable and renewable in its source materials.

High-quality printing for branding and marketing is supported in these boxes, and its use appeals to shelves and engages buyers at a deeper level. Its use can cover a range of goods in a variety of industries, including foods and drinks and electronic goods, which will make it a dominant player in the RRP market. The second most dominating segment is die-cut cases for merchandise, offering additional viewability and access. Die-cut cases are predesigned for ease of assembly, increased merchandising, and reduced labor costs.

By End User

The Food & Beverage sector is predicted to dominate the Retail Ready Packaging market with the highest revenue share in 2025, due to a rise in demand for ease and convenience in packaging, with an increasingly urbanized populace, expansion in modern retail chains, and a transition towards environmentally friendly packaging. Retail stores and supermarkets prefer retail-ready packaging (RRP) for its value added in terms of added efficiency in shelves, reduced labor, and enhanced visibility for the product. All these factors stimulate demand for RRP in the sector, with packaged foods, beverages, and ready-to-eat foods witnessing increased demand, and thus, demand for cheap, presentable, and durable packaging alternatives. Besides, government policies in terms of environmentally friendly packaging have stimulated demand for RRP in this sector.

The Personal & Cosmetic industry is a runner-up in terms of segments in the RRP market, with growing demand for packaging that is both pleasing and environmentally friendly. Due to growing awareness and demand for premium products, companies’ value packaging that is pleasing to the eyes generates a strong impact on shelves and identifies with a nameplate. E-business development has generated a growing demand for packaging that is strong, lightweight, and tamper-evident. There is a transition towards environmentally friendly and recycled packaging, in harmony with trends in the beauty and cosmetic industry, and these drive the growing use of RRP in this industry, to enhance logistics efficiency and nameplate presence.

The Retail Ready Packaging Market Report is segmented based on the following

By Material

• Paper & Paperboard
• Plastic
• Others

By Package Type

• Corrugated Cardboard Boxes
• Die-cut Display Containers
• Shrink Wrapped Trays
• Modified Cases
• Plastic Containers
• Others

By End User

• Food & Beverages
• Personal Care & Cosmetics
• Pharmaceutical
• Printing & Stationary
• Others

Regional Analysis

North America is projected to dominate the Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) market with a revenue share of 36.1% by the end of 2025, due to its strong economic foundation, which enables the adoption of advanced packaging technologies. The presence of key suppliers such as International Paper Company, Georgia-Pacific LLC, and WestRock Company further strengthens the region’s position by providing innovative and cost-effective solutions. Additionally, the U.S. market is experiencing a surge in sustainable packaging initiatives, as seen in the collaboration between LVMH and DOW to enhance eco-friendly packaging for major cosmetics and perfume brands.

Retail giants like Walmart and Kroger are also driving market expansion by implementing standardized packaging solutions that streamline shelf stocking and improve product visibility. The growing number of supermarkets and hypermarkets in the region has further increased the demand for RRP, ensuring efficient logistics and better consumer engagement. Furthermore, advancements in polygraph technology have enabled high-quality printing of attractive designs and brand information, enhancing the appeal of retail-ready packaging. These factors collectively contribute to North America’s leadership in the global RRP market.

Asia is expected to be the second-largest RRP market due to its booming retail sector, rapid urbanization, and increasing consumer demand for convenient and visually appealing packaging. Countries like China and India are witnessing significant growth in supermarkets and e-commerce, further fueling RRP adoption.

By Region

North America

• The U.S.
• Canada

Europe

• Germany
• The U.K.
• France
• Italy
• Russia
• Spain
• Benelux
• Nordic
• Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• ANZ
• ASEAN
• Rest of Asia-Pacific

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• South Africa
• Israel
• Egypt
• Rest of MEA

Competitive Landscape

The global retail ready packaging (RRP) market is marked by an increasingly fragmented and competitive environment due to the presence of multiple domestic and regional players, each competing to gain market share by employing innovative strategies or operational efficiencies. Key players within the RRP market employ tactics like mergers & acquisitions, expansion, collaborations, or strategic partnerships to strengthen their competitive edge or widen geographical footprints and stay ahead of rivalry.

Mergers and acquisitions have long been effective tools for companies seeking to consolidate their market positions quickly while quickly expanding product portfolios with innovative new technologies and innovations. Strategic expansion into emerging markets gives firms access to expanding consumer bases while diversifying revenue sources. Collaborations and partnerships formed with suppliers or distributors enable seamless technology integration as well as streamlining supply chain operations, improving overall efficiency while responding more rapidly to market needs.

Some of the prominent players in the Global Retail Ready Packaging Market are

• DS Smith plc
• Smurfit Kappa Group plc
• Mondi
• International Paper Company
• Caps Cases Limited
• Orora Packaging Australia Pty Ltd
• WestRock Company
• Kapco Packaging
• Amcor Limited
• Georgia Pacific LLC
• Clearwater Paper Corporation
• Packaging Corporation of America
• Ashtonne Packaging
• Other Key Players

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, Graphic Packaging International teamed up with Morrisons to launch a sustainable retail-ready packaging solution for Morrisons’ steak range. Utilizing next-generation tray technology, the recyclable paperboard trays with high-quality photo prints are expected to eliminate 250 metric tons of plastic annually, supporting Morrisons’ plastic reduction targets and enhancing branding opportunities.
• In August 2023, Walmart unveiled a retail-ready guide aimed at establishing future benchmarks for in-store displays and shelf-to-shelf packaging. These guidelines are designed to help manufacturers understand and implement EIA standards within Walmart’s stores.
• In August 2023, Mondi expanded its retail-ready packaging portfolio by introducing new sustainable solutions. The latest additions include recyclable and compostable packaging options tailored for a variety of products, such as food, beverages, and personal care items.
• In September 2023, Tetra Pak launched its new retail-ready packaging solution for e-commerce, named Tetra Pak E-Commerce Packaging. As a global leader in food processing and packaging, Tetra Pak designed this solution to protect food and beverage products during shipping and handling, while also ensuring the packaging is easy to open and recyclable.
• In June 2023, DS Smith introduced DD Wrap, a sustainable Shelf Ready Packaging (SRP) solution made from mono-cardboard. Designed to minimize waste and improve resource efficiency, DD Wrap offers easy opening and better product visibility. Specifically created for biscuits, it adheres to circular economy principles and drives in-store sales through effective branding.