Gable Top Liquid Cartons Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Shelf Life (Short Term Shelf Life and Long Term Shelf Life), By Capacity (Less than 250 ml, 250-500 ml, 501-750 ml, and Above 750 ml), By Application (Dairy Products, Wine & Spirits, Juices & Drinks, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global gable top liquid cartons market size was valued at USD 9.68 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 10.17 billion in 2025 to USD 14.92 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.63% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the gable top liquid cartons market with a market share of 37.91% in 2024.

Gable top liquid cartons are a type of packaging frequently utilized for liquids, noted for their unique triangular-shaped tops that look like a gable roof. Characterized by their distinctive rectangular or "brick-like" shape, this packaging format is widely used for liquid food and beverages, such as milk, juices, plant-based drinks, and other consumables. These cartons are characterized by their distinct gable-shaped top, which offers a reliable sealing method and convenience for consumers. They provide various advantages, such as easy pouring, efficient stacking, and appealing visibility on shelves. Additionally, they are lightweight, made from recyclable raw materials, and offer protection from light, oxygen, and moisture, enhancing both sustainability and the quality of the product. The rapidly growing demand for dairy and wine products globally is cushioning the global market growth.

• The International Dairy Federation states that the dairy industry is crucial for feeding the global population, generating 881 million tonnes of milk in 2019, a figure that continues to grow annually. Over 80% of people globally, which amounts to around 6 billion individuals, frequently consume liquid milk or various dairy

Axalta Coating and Akzo Nobel N.V. are the leading manufacturers, accounting for the largest global market share. The leading manufacturers focus on offering continuous innovations and meet the growing demand of consumers.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Augmenting Demand for Gable Top Cartons from the Beverages Sector Drives Market Growth

The surge in e-commerce, especially for grocery delivery services, has created demand for packaging that can withstand shipping and handling stresses. Brick cartons, with their durable structure and ability to preserve product freshness, are increasingly preferred for online distribution of perishable liquid foods. The beverage sector has dominated the global market for gable top liquid cartons for many years. The growing need for different beverages from end-users has fueled the demand for gable top liquid cartons that are distributed globally. The efficient transportation of beverage products without any damage or leakage increases the need these cartons in the market, as they help stabilize the loads, which is likely to boost the market.

• According to the International Dairy Federation, dairy farming and processing play a crucial role in both national economies and the lives of individuals. Globally, there are approximately 133 million dairy farms. More than 600 million people reside on dairy farms, including 80 million women, with nearly 37 million of them leading their own farms. Each year, 9% of the world's milk production is subjected to trade.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Stiff Competition from the Alternatives Hampers the Market Expansion

Gable liquid cartons face intense competition from plastic bottles, glass bottles, and tetra packs which may offer advantages such as lower cost, convenience (resealable caps), and consumer familiarity. This competition restrains rapid market penetration in some regions. Increasing adoption of alternative materials such as glass and plastic is hindering the growth of the liquid packaging carton industry. Glass bottles and flexible plastic pouches are commonly utilized globally for packaging various liquids, including milk and other beverages. Additionally, the popularity of glass bottles for packaging organic juices and alcoholic beverages is negatively impacting the demand for these cartons. Moreover, plastic is favored for its corrosion resistance, lightweight nature, and ease of transportation. Therefore, the widespread presence and demand for these alternatives, due to their distinct advantages, is affecting the demand for liquid packaging cartons.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Rising Demand for Eco-friendly Packages Will Offer Potential Growth Opportunities

Sustainability is at the forefront of market trends. Consumers, regulatory bodies, and manufacturers emphasize the need for packaging that minimizes environmental impact. Government regulations are increasingly targeting environmental recycling goals. Regulatory bodies in various nations are slowly implementing rules concerning the use of environmentally friendly packaging, prompting manufacturers to concentrate on creating biodegradable packaging options. Integration of smart packaging technologies, such as QR codes, Near Field Communication (NFC), and RFID tags, is becoming prevalent. These technologies help brands improve consumer engagement through interactive content and improve supply chain transparency by enabling better product traceability and authentication.

Since paperboard cartons are made from higher-quality long fiber, manufacturers are redirecting their efforts towards utilizing paperboard material for the production of biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging. In contrast to plastic bottles, gable top liquid cartons made from paperboard tend to have a longer shelf life and lesser carbon footprint. These significant factors are anticipated to generate numerous opportunities for the global gable top liquid cartons market growth during the forecast period.

GABLE TOP LIQUID CARTONS MARKET TRENDS

Incorporation of Plant-based Materials is Analyzed to Flourish as a Key Trend for Market Growth

Gable top cartons are progressively using plant-based materials, mainly paperboard and polymers sourced from renewable resources such as wood and sugarcane, to improve sustainability. This transition is motivated by consumer preferences for environmentally friendly packaging and a wish to lessen dependence on fossil fuels. Both companies as well as consumers are seeking substitutes to traditional plastics, and among the most beneficial innovations is plant fiber packaging, a solution that offers both environmental as well as economic benefits. Henceforth, the incorporation of plant-based materials is emerging as a key trend for market growth.

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Segmentation Analysis

By Shelf Life

Significant Benefits Offered by the Long-Term Shelf Life Led to the Dominance of Segment

Based on shelf life, the market is divided into short-term shelf life and long-term shelf life.

The long-term shelf life segment accounted for the larger share of the market in 2024. They are specifically engineered to shield their contents from external elements, such as light and oxygen, which can compromise the quality and freshness of liquid products over time. These cartons are appropriate for a variety of liquid goods. They deliver exceptional convenience to consumers by preserving liquid products for a longer period, reducing the need for frequent restocking. As consumer preferences shift and sustainability remains a key priority in the packaging sector, liquid cartons with long-lasting shelf life are anticipated to maintain their market dominance.

Short-term shelf life is the second-leading segment. Liquid cartons with a short shelf life are ideal for items such as fruit juices and dairy products. Their affordability and consumers’ preference for freshness are driving their popularity in the market.

By Capacity

Remarkable Advantages of Less than 250 ml Capacities Drive Segment’s Growth

Based on capacity, the market is divided into less than 250 ml, 250-500 ml, 501-750 ml, and above 750 ml.

The less than 250 ml segment accounted for the largest share of the market in 2024. Liquid cartons containing less than 250ml, commonly known as portion packs, present numerous advantages. They are perfect for consumption while traveling and for single servings, making them both convenient and attractive to consumers. These compact cartons also contribute to minimizing food waste by offering smaller quantities of product, allowing consumers to finish them without the concern of spoilage.

Above 750 ml capacity is the second dominating capacity segment. These capacities, such as those used for milk or juice, provide numerous advantages compared to smaller packages. They decrease the need for frequent purchases, optimize storage space, and often prove to be more economical for buyers. For companies, they help to enhance production efficiency and minimize packaging waste.

By Application

Growing Utilization of Gable Top Cartons for Dairy Products Aids in Dairy Products Segment’s Dominance

Based on the application, the market is segmented into dairy products, wine & spirits, juices & drinks, and others.

Dairy products were the dominating segment of the market in 2024. Dairy items such as milk, yogurt, and cream are vulnerable to external influences such as light, moisture, temperature, and oxygen. These cartons offer a strong barrier against these elements, preserving the flavor and quality of these products. Moreover, owing to the affordability of liquid cartons, dairy brands can keep competitive prices in the market while also addressing sustainability issues. These cartons are engineered to ensure the safety and quality of dairy goods, complying with strict food safety standards. All these aspects contribute to the dominance of liquid cartons as they are preferred packaging solution for dairy products.

On the other hand, the juices & drinks segment is expected to witness steady growth in the forecast period. Gable top cartons provide numerous benefits for juices and drinks, such as optimized storage and transportation, eco-friendliness, and appealing branding possibilities. Additionally, they help maintain the juice's freshness and quality and can be tailored to connect with the desired audience.

Gable Top Liquid Cartons Market Regional Outlook

By geography, the market is categorized into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World.

Asia Pacific

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The Asia Pacific dominates the global gable top liquid cartons market share. The liquid packaging cartons in this region are preferred for milk and juices. These cartons help prolong the shelf life of products and maintain their freshness. The increasing need for environmentally friendly packaging has led to advancements, producing cartons from recyclable and biodegradable materials. With a rising inclination towards packaged and ready-to-drink beverages in Japan, India, and other growing economies, the growth of this segment underscores a wider trend towards convenient and portable packaging options. Furthermore, paper and cardboard production have been rapidly growing in the region.

• According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the output of processed paper and cardboard is steadily rising in the nation. The output of processed paper and cardboard increased from 11.3 million metric tons in August 2020 to 11.48 million metric tons in August 2021.

North America

North America is the second-largest gable top liquid cartons market. Liquid packaging cartons are primarily used in the food and beverage industry for various functions, including the storage of liquid food products, preservation of goods, and safe transportation of items. Furthermore, analysis indicates that due to growing awareness about healthy living and consumer preference for protein shakes, wine, fruit juices, dietary supplements, and more, the market is experiencing notable trends. Increasing consumer awareness of sustainability, along with the convenience and benefits offered by these cartons, is driving market growth in the U.S. Moreover, the growing wine consumption in the country also cushions the market expansion.

• For instance, the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) states that U.S. holds the title of the largest wine market in the world. In 2023, wine consumption saw a drop of 3.0%, totaling 33.3 million hectoliters. Likewise, Canada experienced a decrease in consumption by 5.6%, amounting to 4.8 million hectoliters, which is the first instance since 2016 that total consumption has fallen below 5 million hectoliters.

Europe

Europe is a significant market for gable-top liquid cartons. Emerging market participants are focusing on creating packaging that is biodegradable and reusable to lessen their carbon emissions in response to increasing consumer consciousness about sustainable packaging solutions. They are leveraging the rising awareness of health and safety to innovate in the realm of aseptic packaging. The growing emphasis on sustainability in the region will thus, drive the market growth in the forthcoming years.

Rest of the World

The market in the rest of the world region is expected to witness considerable growth in the near future. The Middle East and Africa regions are emerging markets with rising health awareness and packaged food consumption. The Latin American region has smaller share but increasing demand for liquid cartons with gable top properties, which in turn, signals promising opportunities.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Continuous Development and Introduction of New Products by Key Companies Resulted in Their Dominating Positions in the Market

The global gable top liquid cartons market is concentrated with Tetra Pak International S.A., Elopak AS, SIG, Oji Holdings Corporation, Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd., and Adam Pack S.A., accounting for a significant market share.

Tetra Pak is a global leader in solutions for food processing and packaging, committed to ensuring that food is safe and available to all. Their dedication stems from the conviction that everyone deserves access to safe and nutritious food. They aim to accomplish this through cutting-edge processing and packaging technologies, which help maintain food quality and prolong shelf life.

International S.A. is a global leader in eco-friendly packaging solutions, offering an extensive variety of products made from renewable fiber-based resources. Their main office is located in Memphis, Tennessee, with their Europe, Middle East & Africa headquarters based in London. The primary focus of the company involves manufacturing containerboard, corrugated packaging, and cellulose fibers that are utilized in diverse applications such as diapers, tissue, and personal care items.

Additionally, Elopak AS and Pactiv Evergreen are among the other prominent market players. Focus on significant investments in the research & development of innovative products has supported the companies’ share in the market.

• In October 2024, Pactiv Evergreen Inc. unveiled a groundbreaking packaging solution with the rollout of its patented SmartPour package. Manufactured in the U.S., SmartPour packaging is designed with a convenient pouring and resealable closure, making it the perfect container for pourable, dry ingredients such as high-quality cereals, crackers, snacks, baking components, pet food, powders or formulas, and powdered laundry or dish detergents.

LIST OF KEY GABLE TOP LIQUID CARTONS COMPANIES PROFILED

• Tetra Pak International S.A. (Switzerland)
• Elopak AS (Norway)
• SIG (Switzerland)
• Oji Holdings Corporation (Italy)
• Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Adam Pack S.A. (Greece)
• Stora Enso Oyj (Finland)
• Pactiv Evergreen (U.S.)
• Italpack Cartons S.r.l. (Italy)
• Parksons Packaging Ltd. (India)
• Suzhou Greatspring Industrial Co., Ltd. (China)
• Rotopacking Materials Ind. Co. LLC (UAE)
• Trepak International (Pakistan)
• Atlas Packaging (Germany)
• Sigitaspak (UAE)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• April 2024: Nampak Liquid Cartons, in collaboration with Woodlands Dairy, introduced a tethered cap carton in South Africa. This innovation was created to address the reduction of plastic waste, and the new design aims to keep the cap attached to the carton during its recycling process after consumer use.
• November 2023: Ariake launched for the first time premium liquid broths in SIG carton packs. Ariake, a top company in Japan specializing in livestock-based natural seasonings and operating across two continents, is the first in Belgium to employ aseptic filling of food products in SIG carton packs. Ariake plans to expand its broth selection with a new assortment of high-quality liquid broths packaged in SIG Slimline carton packs.
• August 2022: Delamere Dairy reintroduced its primary fresh goat's milk range in a novel SIG Combidome packaging design. The specialty milk producer from Cheshire stated that this format – a fairly recent idea for U.K. shops – merges the convenience and ease of pouring found in bottles, alongside the eco-friendly benefits of the gable top cartons that were used before.
• January 2022: SIG introduced Signature Evo, the first-ever full-barrier packaging materials for aseptic carton packs that are free of aluminum. This new offering expands SIG's range of lower-carbon aluminum-free packaging materials, which were previously available for plain white milk, to include oxygen-sensitive products like fruit juices, nectars, flavored milk, and plant-based beverages.
• October 2020: Ovostar Union, a prominent Ukrainian manufacturer of chicken eggs and egg-based products, introduced an innovative solution, liquid egg products packaged in Pure-Pak gable-top cartons into the national market,. Before this launch, OVOSTAR offered liquid egg products in plastic containers for both the foodservice and retail sectors, including liquid egg white, liquid whole egg, and scrambled eggs, all of which are pasteurized.

REPORT COVERAGE

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Report Scope & Segmentation