The global fiber-based beverage multipack carriers market is expected to expand from USD 668.3 million in 2026 to USD 1,610.0 million by 2036, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.2%, according to a new report by Future Market Insights (FMI). The growth is fueled by beverage manufacturers accelerating the shift from plastic rings and shrink films to recyclable paper-based secondary packaging, driven by evolving environmental regulations and retailer sustainability requirements.
FMI's report highlights that the European Union Regulation 2025/40, which targets a 5% reduction in packaging waste by 2030, is encouraging beverage producers to adopt fiber-based formats. Investments in paperboard production capacity and recycling infrastructure are also strengthening material availability across Europe and North America. According to Nandini Roy Choudhury, Principal Consultant for Packaging at Future Market Insights, “Fiber-based beverage carriers earn repeat orders due to dependable pack strength and line compatibility. Beverage teams examine wet performance and opening experience during technical review. Commercial acceptance improves as converters connect material reduction with tested transport performance and clear recycling instructions.”
The report notes that the food segment will account for 58.0% of end-use demand in 2026, driven by strong demand for soft drinks, dairy beverages, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages sold in multipack formats. Paper is expected to represent 46.0% of material demand, as it combines excellent printability, familiar converting processes, and compatibility with established recycling systems. Pouches are projected to capture 27.0% of format demand, offering lightweight construction and flexible packaging options for smaller assortments and promotional multipacks. Grease-resistant features are also gaining importance, holding a 15.0% market share to protect printed fiber surfaces during production and distribution.
Despite the optimistic outlook, the report identifies moisture exposure as a significant challenge. Variations in board performance can reduce handle strength and folding integrity during chilled distribution, requiring extensive testing before commercial deployment. However, opportunities are emerging through lightweight paperboard engineering, with advanced fiber technologies enabling thinner yet stronger carrier structures that reduce material consumption while maintaining transport performance.
Regionally, South Korea is forecast to lead global growth with a 12.4% CAGR, followed by China at 11.5% and India at 10.6%. The United States is expected to grow at 9.7%, supported by mature paper recycling infrastructure, while Japan and Germany are projected to grow at 8.7% and 7.8%, respectively, with a focus on wet-strength performance and certified responsible fiber sourcing.
Key players in the competitive landscape include Graphic Packaging International, Smurfit Westrock, Mondi, International Paper, Metsä Board, Stora Enso, MM Packaging, and KHS Group. Recent developments include Graphic Packaging International's introduction of two new beverage multipack systems in September 2025 designed to reduce paperboard consumption, and Mondi's expansion of its fiber-based multipack portfolio in November 2025 with additional solutions for wraparounds, trays, and PET bottle clips.
For more details, the full report is available at Future Market Insights.
