Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Display Packaging
The market for display packaging is in a state of transition, driven by rapid technological development and a change in the expectations of consumers for innovation and sustainability. Various players, such as original equipment manufacturers, packagers and sustainable start-ups, are fighting to establish themselves as market leaders by using new technology such as artificial intelligence, automation and the Internet of Things. These differentiators not only enhance operational efficiency but also deliver a more individualized consumer experience, thereby influencing both brand loyalty and market share. The drive towards eco-friendly materials is also forcing established manufacturers to adapt their product lines, while new entrants are capitalizing on the green trend. As we look to 2024 and 2025, the Asia-Pacific and North American regions are the most promising for growth, as the strategic implementation of smart packaging solutions is set to reshape the market landscape and the role of individual players.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive packaging solutions, integrating design, production, and distribution capabilities.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| International Paper |
Diverse product portfolio and sustainability focus |
Paper-based packaging solutions |
North America, Europe |
| Graphic Packaging International |
Innovative designs and sustainable practices |
Folding cartons and paperboard packaging |
North America, Asia, Europe |
| Amcor |
Global leader in flexible packaging |
Flexible and rigid packaging solutions |
Global |
| Berry Global |
Wide range of sustainable packaging options |
Plastic packaging solutions |
North America, Europe |
| WestRock |
Integrated packaging solutions and innovation |
Containerboard and paper products |
North America, South America |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche technologies and innovative materials that enhance packaging performance.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Sealed Air |
Expertise in protective packaging solutions |
Bubble wrap and protective packaging |
Global |
| Pregis |
Advanced protective packaging technologies |
Protective packaging solutions |
North America, Europe |
| Glenroy |
Specialization in flexible packaging films |
Flexible packaging solutions |
North America |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply the machinery and infrastructure necessary for packaging production and efficiency.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Sappi |
Sustainable paper solutions and innovation |
Paper and packaging solutions |
Europe, North America |
| Clondalkin Group |
Specialized in printed packaging solutions |
Flexible and printed packaging |
Europe, North America |
| Sonoco Products |
Diverse packaging and services portfolio |
Industrial and consumer packaging |
Global |
| Mondi |
Sustainable packaging and paper solutions |
Flexible and paper packaging |
Europe, North America |
| Smurfit Kappa |
Strong focus on sustainability and innovation |
Paper-based packaging solutions |
Europe, Americas |
| DS Smith |
Circular economy focus in packaging |
Recyclable packaging solutions |
Europe, North America |
| Morris Packaging |
Custom packaging solutions and service |
Custom packaging services |
North America |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- PackTech (USA): A specialist in sustainable packaging solutions made from biodegradable materials, PackTech has just landed a contract with a major retailer for eco-friendly displays, challenging the established suppliers by focusing on reducing plastic waste and the use of biodegradable materials.
- ECO-PACK SOLUTIONS EUROPE: This company develops and manufactures innovative display packaging which is both attractive and recyclabe. It has just completed a project for a leading cosmetics brand. It complements the range of products of established suppliers with its own unique designs that attract the attention of the environmentally conscious consumers.
- Display Innova-tions from Asia is a smart packaging company, which is mainly engaged in the combination of smart packaging and QR codes to attract consumers' attention. Recently, it teamed up with a tech company to enhance the tracking of products, and challenged the traditional packaging method by combining technology with display.
Regional Trends: In 2023, a notable trend towards eco-friendliness in the display packaging market will be noted, with an increase in the use of materials that are more sustainable in North America and Europe. Also, in Asia, the rise of smart displays that enhance consumer interaction will be observed. In the coming years, companies will be more focused on the specialization of display packaging in niche markets, such as cosmetics and food, in order to meet the specific preferences of consumers.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- Mondi Group and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners entered into a partnership to develop sustainable display packaging solutions aimed at reducing plastic waste and enhancing brand visibility in retail environments.
- Smurfit Kappa acquired the packaging division of a regional competitor to strengthen its market position and expand its product offerings in the display packaging sector.
- WestRock and Amazon collaborated to create innovative packaging designs that improve the unboxing experience while optimizing shipping efficiency for e-commerce.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Sustainability |
Mondi Group, Smurfit Kappa |
The Mondi Group has launched a comprehensive sustainability programme, with a focus on recyclability and biodegradability, which has led to a reduction of 30% in the use of plastics in its packaging solutions. Smurfit Kappa has developed a range of biodegradable packaging solutions, which use natural resources and thereby meet the requirements of the circular economy. |
| Customization |
WestRock, DS Smith |
WestRock offers advanced personalization possibilities through digital printing technology, enabling brands to create unique packaging designs that enhance consumer engagement. DS Smith has also embraced digital technology, resulting in a more individualized approach to its customers’ needs. |
| Innovation in Materials |
Amcor, Sealed Air |
Amcor has specialized in the use of high-barrier materials which protect the product against atmospheric agents and which allow the reduction of the weight of the package. Sealed Air has developed new solutions combining protection and lightness, such as air cushioning, which have been widely adopted in the field of e-commerce. |
| Digital Integration |
Packaging Corporation of America, Tetra Pak |
The American packaging company PAC has now incorporated smart technology into its products, enabling them to be tracked and inventoried in real time. It has also launched a new line of products that enable consumers to interact with the packages and to communicate with the company. |
| Cost Efficiency |
International Paper, Graphic Packaging International |
International Paper has mastered the art of reducing production costs while maintaining quality, resulting in the production of display packaging at a competitive price. Graphic Packaging International has developed a lean production system, which reduces costs and makes its products more affordable. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Display Packaging Landscape
The Display Package market in 2023 will be characterized by high fragmentation and a high degree of competition, with both old and new players competing for market share. The regional trends will be focused on the trend towards sustainable and individualized production, which will force the suppliers to develop new products. The market will be dominated by the old players who will have a high degree of brand equity and a distribution network. The new players will focus on speed and cutting-edge technology. The integration of artificial intelligence, automation and sustainable production will be decisive for market leadership. The key to a long-term competitive advantage for the companies will be to be flexible and quick in their response to the market.
