Packaging in 2024: The big picture
Canada’s packaging market in 2024 was shaped by sustainability, convenience and cost efficiency as brands responded to regulatory pressure and shifting consumer priorities. Flexible formats such as pouches were gaining share due to their lightweight design and resealable features, particularly in categories like baby food and seafood. Brands such as Gerber and Baby Gourmet leveraged pouches for portion-controlled feeding, while Clover Leaf adopted aluminium/plastic pouches for shelf stable seafood, offering superior protection and portability.
2024 key trends
Premiumisation is influencing packaging beyond traditional luxury categories, with brands leveraging design and material choices to elevate everyday products. Glass and metal formats are increasingly used not only for beverages and confectionery, but also for niche segments like artisanal foods, signalling a shift towards packaging that simultaneously communicates quality and sustainability. This trend reflects consumer willingness to pay more for products that combine functionality with a premium aesthetic.
Plastic dominates food packaging, but sustainable alternatives are on the rise
Regulatory pressure and environmental goals are accelerating the shift towards more responsible packaging in the food industry. PET jars are being substituted by folding cartons in sweet spreads, while plant-based beverages are switching to liquid cartons to reinforce their natural positioning. Examples such as Cabot’s PCR films and Danone’s rPET yoghurt cups highlight the dairy industry’s commitment to circular packaging. Despite these changes, rigid and flexible plastic remain essential for high-volume categories due to their protective properties and cost efficiency, with thin wall containers leading in yoghurt, flexible pouches dominating baby food and flexible plastic in processed meat for their convenience and resealability.
Innovation and premium design revolutionise beverage packaging
Innovation and premium positioning are setting the pace in non-alcoholic drinks. Glass bottles are gaining ground in soft drinks, driven by brands like Jones Soda Co, which leverage their upscale image and eco-friendly appeal. In hot drinks, more responsible alternatives are emerging, such as Club Coffee’s paper-based canisters and DAVIDsTEA’s compostable aluminium/paper pouches, while Tim Hortons is piloting fibre-based lids to reduce the application of single-use plastics. Even so, PET bottles maintain their leadership thanks to practicality and compatibility with deposit-return systems, supported by innovations like Coca-Cola’s ultra-light bottles that optimise material use and logistics. Format trends reflect two key drivers, convenience and value. Single-serve and on-the-go packs are expanding to meet the needs of smaller households and on-the-go lifestyles, while large PET bottles, such as 1.5-litre formats, are seeing increasing demand among cost-conscious shoppers, exemplified by PepsiCo’s rPET bottles. At the same time, health-driven demand is influencing packaging strategies, favouring formats that enable portion control and highlight functional benefits, including zero-sugar and lightly sweetened variants.
Metal cans dominate while the bag-in-box format gains traction in alcoholic drinks
Shifts in drinking culture and moderation trends are reshaping alcoholic drinks packaging. The rise of low- and no-alcohol options is driving demand for formats that support controlled portions and convenience, making standard single-serve cans (355ml) a popular choice for casual and social occasions. At the same time, affordability pressures are fuelling growth in larger multipacks for at-home consumption, offering better value in an inflationary environment. Metal cans remain the dominant format for beer and RTDs thanks to their portability, durability and strong integration with recycling systems, while glass bottles, once a premium staple, are losing share due to their fragility and higher transport costs. Sustainability is also influencing innovation, with bag-in-box solutions recording unit volume growth of 3% in 2024, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and on-trade venues seeking lightweight, space-saving alternatives that reduce reliance on heavy materials. Leading players such as Molson Coors and Labatt Breweries are reinforcing these shifts through canned wine and RTDs launches, alongside investments in machinery to eliminate plastic ring carriers and adopt greener secondary packaging. Packaging innovation in alcoholic drinks is redefining category norms, combining operational efficiency with consumer demand for moderation and eco-friendly solutions.
Cartons lead sustainable beauty as brands embrace premium finishes and recyclability
Skinimalism and compact luxury set the tone for beauty and personal care packaging in Canada during 2024, driving solutions that combine aesthetics, functionality and environmental responsibility. Folding cartons strengthened their position as the leading format thanks to their versatility, generous branding space and compatibility with minimalist designs and premium finishes, while offering a lower environmental footprint. At the same time, plastic pouches were the most dynamic format, growing 21% due to their lightweight structure, logistical efficiency and recyclability, with notable use in refill packs, such as Paume’s sanitisers. Innovation also stood out in launches like Olay Cleansing Melts, presented in recyclable pouches, and Attitude’s Oceanly line, which introduced 100% plastic-free solid make-up in biodegradable cartons, reinforcing the shift towards packaging without plastic. In terms of size, 50ml formats remained dominant in fragrances, supported by the compact luxury trend, while travel-size and refillable options gained traction for their practicality and reduced environmental impact. Players such as L’Oréal advanced refillable packaging and travel formats under its Garnier and Lancôme lines, while Paume, Olay, and Attitude consolidated sustainable innovation across their lines. This evolution redefines the concept of functional luxury, integrating design, convenience and sustainability to meet the expectations of consumers seeking responsible yet sophisticated experiences.
Refills and concentrates alternatives power the future of home care
Bulk buying and the rise of refill ecosystems are redefining home care packaging, pushing brands towards larger value formats for routine use and concentrated refills for top-ups. HDPE remains the workhorse for aggressive liquids, although momentum is shifting towards lighter, renewable and more recyclable solutions, with PET and fibre-based options expanding in specific applications. Flexible paper was the fastest-growing pack type in air care, especially gel fresheners, thanks to its lightweight build, recyclability and strong shelf appeal. Innovation is accelerating this transition, with Tru Earth introducing a 100% plastic-free, FSC-certified cardboard bottle, a move that complements its ultraconcentrated formats and anchors a broader shift to refill-ready systems. As households trade down on frequency, but up in efficiency, small packs retreat, while large formats (eg 1,000g and above) gain share thanks to value and logistics considerations. Looking ahead, PET is expected to continue advancing as HDPE and metal lose ground in a market shaped by extended producer responsibility and the growing preference for truly recyclable materials. Home care is emerging as a proving ground for concentrates and refill ecosystems, shifting value creation from packaging volume to system efficiency and material minimisation.
Large packs maximise value in pet food, while small formats unlock entry for new brands
Dog and cat food packaging is seeing developments driven by the need for freshness, portion control and efficient storage. Metal cans continue to lead in wet food due to their ability to preserve quality, protect against contaminants and offer effective recyclability, aligning with increasingly circular economy preferences. At the same time, paper-based containers were seeing dynamic growth, favoured for their biodegradability and compliance with responsible material criteria. Functional innovation is evident in pouches with hermetic seals, brands like Noochies use them for freeze-dried snacks, providing lightness, easy storage and longer shelf life. In terms of sizes, large packs (2,950g) are gaining traction in dry food for their value-price ratio and waste reduction, while smaller formats facilitate the entry of new brands in treats and single-portion offerings. Among notable examples, Gather is promoting compostable bags in the premium segment, and Cesar introduced easy-open mini pouches in wet food, reinforcing a shift towards solutions that maximise freshness and portion control without sacrificing environmental performance. Overall, the category is evolving towards a portfolio architecture that combines bulk for everyday use and small formats for rewards and variety, supported by high-protection materials and improved circularity.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in Canada with research from Euromonitor International's team of in-country analysts – experts by industry and geographic specialisation.
Key trends are clearly and succinctly summarised alongside the most current research data available. Understand and assess competitive threats and plan corporate strategy with our qualitative analysis, insight and confident growth projections.
Data and analysis in this report provides further detailed coverage dedicated to a comprehensive range of packaging types.
If you're in the Packaging industry in Canada, our research will help you to make informed, intelligent decisions; to recognise and profit from opportunity, or to offer resilience amidst market uncertainty.
The Packaging in Canada report includes:
- Analysis of key supply-side and demand trends
- Detailed segmentation of international and local products
- Historic volume and value sizes, company and brand market shares
- Five year forecasts of market trends and market growth
- Robust and transparent research methodology, conducted in-country
This report answers:
- What is the market size of Packaging in Canada?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in Canada?
- Have there been any packaging legislative changes in the past 12 months?
- How are consumption trends impacting the packaging landscape?
- What are the key trends and latest product developments in packaging?
- How important are sustainability and recycling to consumers in Canada?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in Canada
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
2024 key trends
Plastic dominates food packaging, but sustainable alternatives are on the rise
Innovation and premium design revolutionise beverage packaging
Metal cans dominate while the bag-in-box format gains traction in alcoholic drinks
Cartons lead sustainable beauty as brands embrace premium finishes and recyclability
Refills and concentrates alternatives power the future of home care
Large packs maximise value in pet food, while small formats unlock entry for new brands
Canada advances towards zero plastic waste through national targets, refill models and investment in circular packaging systems
Extended producer responsibility enables circular packaging by funding collection and recovery
Clear labelling standards transform packaging transparency by banning misleading claims
DISCLAIMER
The following categories and subcategories are included:
Packaging
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- Baby and Child-specific Products Packaging
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- Bar Soap
- Bath Additives
- Body Powder
- Body Wash/Shower Gel
- Hand Sanitisers
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- Intimate Washes
- Intimate Wipes
- Liquid Soap
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- Eye Liner/Pencil
- Eye Shadow
- Mascara
- Other Lash and Brow Make-Up
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- BB/CC Creams
- Blusher/Bronzer/Highlighter
- Foundation/Concealer
- Powder
- Other Facial Make-Up
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- Lip Gloss
- Lip Liner/Pencil
- Lipstick
- Other Lip Products
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- Nail Polish
- Nail Treatments/Strengthener
- Polish Remover
- Other Nail Products
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- Deodorant Creams
- Deodorant Pumps
- Deodorant Roll-Ons
- Deodorant Sprays
- Deodorant Sticks
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- Hair Removers/Bleaches
- Women's Pre-Shave
- Women's Razors and Blades
- Fragrances Packaging
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- 2-in-1 Products
- Colourants
- Conditioners and Treatments
- Perms and Relaxants
- Salon Professional Hair Care
- Standard Shampoos
- Styling Agents
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- Men's Post-Shave
- Men's Pre-Shave
- Men's Razors and Blades
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- Men's Bath and Shower
- Men's Deodorants
- Men's Hair Care
- Men's Skin Care
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- Dental Floss
- Denture Care
- Mouth Fresheners
- Mouthwashes/Dental Rinses
- Tooth Whiteners
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
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- Body Care
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- Face Masks
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- Liquid/Cream/Gel/Bar Cleansers
- Facial Cleansing Wipes
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- Basic Moisturisers
- Anti-Agers
- Lip Care
- Toners
- Hand Care
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- Adult Sun Care
- Baby and Child-specific Sun Care
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- Dark Beer
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- Flavoured/Mixed Lager
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- Domestic Lager
- Imported Lager
- Non/Low Alcohol Beer
- Stout
- Cider/Perry
- RTDs
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- Brandy and Cognac
- Liqueurs
- Rum
- Tequila (and Mezcal)
- Whiskies
- White Spirits
- Other Spirits
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- Fortified Wine and Vermouth
- Non-Grape Wine
- Sparkling Wine
- Still Light Grape Wine
- Non Alcoholic Wine
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- Fresh Coffee Beans
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- Fresh Ground Coffee Pods
- Standard Fresh Ground Coffee
- Instant Coffee
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- Black Tea
- Green Tea
- Fruit/Herbal Tea
- Instant Tea
- Other Tea
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- Flavoured Powder Drinks
- Other Plant-based Hot Drinks
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- Asian Speciality Drinks
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- Carbonated Bottled Water
- Flavoured Bottled Water
- Functional Bottled Water
- Still Bottled Water
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- Cola Carbonates
- Non-Cola Carbonates
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- Liquid Concentrates
- Powder Concentrates
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- 100% Juice
- Juice Drinks (up to 24% Juice)
- Nectars (25-99% Juice)
- Coconut and Other Plant Waters
- Energy Drinks
- Sports Drinks
- RTD Coffee
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- Carbonated RTD Tea and Kombucha
- Still RTD Tea
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- Cat Treats and Mixers
- Dry Cat Food
- Wet Cat Food
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- Dog Treats and Mixers
- Dry Dog Food
- Wet Dog Food
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- Dried Baby Food
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- Liquid Milk Formula
- Powder Milk Formula
- Prepared Baby Food
- Other Baby Food
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- Dessert Mixes
- Frozen Baked Goods
- Packaged Bread
- Packaged Cakes
- Packaged Pastries
- Dessert Pies and Tarts
- Breakfast Cereals Packaging
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- Chocolate Pouches and Bags
- Boxed Assortments
- Chocolate with Toys
- Countlines
- Seasonal Chocolate
- Tablets
- Other Chocolate Confectionery
- Gum
- Sugar Confectionery
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- Butter and Spreads
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- Processed Cheese
- Packaged Hard Cheese
- Soft Cheese
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- Flavoured Milk Drinks
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- Fresh Milk
- Shelf Stable Milk
- Goat Milk
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- Powder Milk
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- Sour Milk Products
- Yoghurt
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- Chilled and Shelf Stable Desserts
- Chilled Snacks
- Coffee Whiteners
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- Condensed Milk
- Cream
- Fromage Frais and Quark
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- Plant-based Milk
- Plant-based Yoghurt
- Plant-based Cheese
- Edible Oils Packaging
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- Frozen Yoghurt
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Plant-based Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
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- Frozen Fruit
- Frozen Processed Potatoes
- Frozen Processed Vegetables
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- Shelf Stable Beans
- Shelf Stable Fruit
- Shelf Stable Tomatoes
- Shelf Stable Vegetables
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- Chilled Processed Meat
- Frozen Processed Meat
- Shelf Stable Meat
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- Chilled Processed Seafood
- Frozen Processed Seafood
- Shelf Stable Seafood
- Meat and seafood substitutes inc Tofu
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- Dried Ready Meals
- Shelf Stable Ready Meals
- Chilled Ready Meals
- Frozen Ready Meals
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- Chilled Pizza
- Frozen Pizza
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- Meal Kits
- Quick Recipe Kits
- Chilled Lunch Kits
- Prepared Salads
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- Dry Soup
- Shelf Stable Soup
- Chilled Soup
- Frozen Soup
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- Noodles
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- Chilled Pasta
- Dried Pasta
- Rice
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- Bouillon
- Gravy Cubes, Powders and Pots
- Herbs and Spices
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Tomato Pastes and Purées
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- Liquid Recipe Sauces (excl pasta sauces)
- Dry Recipe Sauces
- Pasta Sauces
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- Barbecue Sauces
- Chili Sauces
- Fish Sauces
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Oyster Sauces
- Salad Dressings
- Soy Sauces
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- Dips
- Pickled Products
- Other Sauces and Condiments
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- Nuts, Seeds and Trail Mixes
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Salty Snacks
- Savoury Biscuits
- Meat Snacks
- Seafood Snacks
- Other Savoury Snacks
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- Chocolate Spreads
- Honey
- Jams and Preserves
- Nut and Seed Based Spreads
- Yeast-based Spreads
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- Fruit Snacks
- Snack Bars
- Sweet Biscuits
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- Candle Air Fresheners
- Car Air Fresheners
- Electric Air Fresheners
- Gel Air Fresheners
- Liquid Air Fresheners
- Spray/Aerosol Air Fresheners
- Other Air Care
- Bleach
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- Automatic Dishwashing Liquids
- Automatic Dishwashing Powders
- Automatic Dishwashing Tablets
- Dishwashing Additives
- Hand Dishwashing
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- Electric Insecticides
- Insecticide Baits
- Insecticide Coils
- Spray/Aerosol Insecticides
- Other Home Insecticides
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- Carpet Cleaners
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- Dryer Sheets
- Liquid Fabric Softeners
- Laundry Aids
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- Powder Detergents
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- Compact Powder Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Tablet Detergents
- Liquid Detergents
- Other Detergents
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- Floor Polish
- Furniture Polish
- Metal Polish
- Shoe Polish
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- Cleaning Solution
- Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks (Excluding Wipes)
- Wipes (Excluding Starter Kits/Sweepers/Sticks)
- Bathroom Cleaners
- Descalers
- Drain Openers
- Floor Cleaners
- Home Care Disinfectants
- Kitchen Cleaners
- Multi-Purpose Cleaners
- Oven Cleaners
- Scouring Agents
- Window/Glass Cleaners
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- In-Cistern Devices
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- Rim Blocks
- Rim Liquids
- Toilet Care Tablets/Powders
- Toilet Cleaning Systems
- Toilet Liquids/Foam
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This report originates from Passport, our Packaging research and analysis database.
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