Packaging in 2024: The big picture
The packaging industry in France in 2024 is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the growing importance of sustainability as both a regulatory mandate and a competitive advantage. A combination of stricter government policies, economic constraints and evolving consumer values is influencing how packaging is designed, manufactured and delivered across industries such as food, beverages, home care, beauty and pet food. These factors are collectively pushing the industry towards more environmentally responsible and resource-efficient solutions.
2024 key trends
A major trend reshaping the French packaging landscape is the combined push towards lightweighting and circularity, driven by both cost pressures and tightening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. Brands are aggressively reducing material use by cutting plastic content, minimising glass weight and eliminating unnecessary outer packaging. This shift is not only helping manufacturers lower production and transportation costs, but also making packaging more compatible with national recycling infrastructures. At the same time, companies are investing in circular solutions, most notably mono-material designs, closed-loop systems and packaging that can be efficiently collected, sorted and reprocessed within existing recycling streams. As EPR obligations become stricter, brands are compelled to demonstrate recyclability, use higher percentages of recycled content and contribute financially to waste management ecosystems. The convergence of lightweighting and circularity is therefore creating packaging that is both more resource-efficient and more compliant with regulatory expectations, marking a decisive move away from heavy, multi-layered and hard-to-recycle formats.
Shifting lifestyles and desire for high-quality eco-design accelerate the move towards portion-controlled and premium sustainable packaging
The second major trend blends the rise of portion-controlled packaging with the growth of premium eco-design, reflecting two parallel consumer behaviour types – value-seeking consumption and the desire for high-quality sustainable aesthetics. Economic pressures, evolving lifestyles and the increasing numbers of smaller households are pushing consumers towards mini formats, single-serve packs, multipacks and compact dairy, snack, beauty and pet food portions. These packs offer affordability, reduce waste and fit better with busy urban routines. Alongside this value-driven trend, the premium segment is elevating sustainability through refined materials such as FSC-certified paper, recycled aluminium, refillable glass and minimalist “clean” visual identities. This creates packaging that signals both quality and environmental responsibility. Together, portioning and premium eco-design illustrate how brands are balancing cost-efficiency with aspirational sustainability, catering simultaneously to budget-conscious shoppers and to consumers seeking a more luxurious, eco-conscious experience.
Regulatory pressure and shifting consumer habits drive France’s transition towards sustainable and portion-focused food packaging
In France, food packaging is experiencing a pronounced transformation, underpinned by regulatory pressure, sustainability demands and shifting consumer behaviour. The Anti-Waste and Circular Economy (AGEC) law is a key force in this change. For example, it restricts the use of plastic in certain fresh fruit and vegetable packaging, pushing retailers and food companies to adopt fibre-based or paper-based solutions instead. As a result, cartons, paper pouches and fibre trays are increasingly being used for items like sauces, dairy products, dry goods and ready meals. These formats allow brands to reduce their reliance on multi-layer plastics and support France’s circular economy goals.
Regulatory pressure and sustainability demands driving the shift towards rPET, shrink wrap alternatives and metal cans in non-alcoholic drinks
In non-alcoholic drinks, French producers are accelerating the adoption of recyclable and circular materials, motivated both by evolving regulations and growing environmental awareness among consumers. Recycled PET (rPET) is becoming more prevalent in water, carbonates and energy drinks as companies prepare for stricter recycled-content targets. Indeed, under forthcoming regulations like the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), minimum thresholds for recycled plastic are being set, which strengthens the business case for rPET.
Cost constraints and low-carbon targets drive the rise of aluminium cans, lightweight glass and alternative formats in alcoholic beverages
The alcoholic drinks industry in France is under rising pressure to rethink traditional packaging, as cost constraints and sustainability mandates coincide to drive major innovation. Aluminium cans are rapidly expanding beyond their traditional association with beer into a broader set of beverage categories, including hard seltzers, ready-to-drink cocktails, craft beverages and even small-format wines. Major brewers such as Heineken, along with regional craft brands, have expanded their canned portfolios because cans are lighter, chill faster and are easier to ship and promote than glass formats. In wine, single-serve aluminium cans remain a niche but fast-growing segment, with brands like Canetta’s vin en canette tapping into casual consumption moments, such as picnics, festivals and outdoor dining. Beyond convenience and portability, aluminium’s recyclability and lighter transportation footprint support circular-economy goals, making cans increasingly attractive for producers seeking both sustainability benefits and new consumption occasions.
Environmental regulations and consumer expectations fuel rapid growth in refill systems, bio-based materials and minimalistic beauty packaging
In France, the beauty and personal care industry is undergoing a rapid shift towards refillable systems, bio-based materials and minimalist packaging, driven by evolving consumer expectations and regulatory pressure under the AGEC law. One of the most notable examples of this transition came in 2024, when Kérastase introduced a premium refillable shampoo system that redefined luxury packaging by merging aesthetics with sustainability. The system pairs a sleek, reusable aluminium bottle designed for long-term use with lightweight refill pouches that reduce plastic consumption by 82% compared to traditional bottles, demonstrating how refill formats can meet both luxury standards and environmental goals. This approach aligns with ADEME’s criteria, which require that reusable containers themselves be recyclable, something aluminium supports strongly due to its high recovery rate.
Sustainability mandates and concentrated product formats reshape home care packaging towards refillables, lighter packs and mono-material solutions
In France’s home care market, the push towards sustainability is driving significant innovation in both packaging formats and product formats. Concentrated formulas for laundry liquids, dishwasher detergents and household cleaners are becoming more widespread by reducing water content. These concentrated products allow brands to sell smaller, lighter packs that dramatically reduce transportation emissions and packaging weight.
Eco-focused consumer demand and convenience needs accelerate adoption of recyclable pouches, portion-controlled packs and user-friendly pet food formats
The pet food packaging market in France is evolving swiftly under sustainability and convenience pressures. For wet cat food, aluminium/plastic pouches are the dominant pack type because they offer freshness, resealability and the ability to control portion sizes, which is especially important for single-pet or small-household buyers. These pouches also reduce the carbon footprint of distribution compared to heavier rigid cans.
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Overview:
Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Packaging industry in France 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 France, 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 France 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 France?
- Which are the major pack types and how are they performing in France?
- 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 France?
- Where is future growth expected to be most significant?
Packaging Industry in France
Packaging in 2024: The big picture
2024 key trends
Shifting lifestyles and desire for high-quality eco-design accelerate the move towards portion-controlled and premium sustainable packaging
Regulatory pressure and shifting consumer habits drive France’s transition towards sustainable and portion-focused food packaging
Regulatory pressure and sustainability demands driving the shift towards rPET, shrink wrap alternatives and metal cans in non-alcoholic drinks
Cost constraints and low-carbon targets drive the rise of aluminium cans, lightweight glass and alternative formats in alcoholic beverages
Environmental regulations and consumer expectations fuel rapid growth in refill systems, bio-based materials and minimalistic beauty packaging
Sustainability mandates and concentrated product formats reshape home care packaging towards refillables, lighter packs and mono-material solutions
Eco-focused consumer demand and convenience needs accelerate adoption of recyclable pouches, portion-controlled packs and user-friendly pet food formats
EU-wide recyclability standards accelerate France’s transition towards harmonised circular packaging systems
Strict national anti-waste laws push brands to reduce plastics, expand reuse models and improve packaging transparency
Mandatory reuse targets and impending deposit systems drive industry adoption of durable and collectible packaging formats
France’s circular economy targets accelerate the shift away from single-use plastics towards recyclable and reusable materials
Regulatory pressure and sustainability goals spur innovation in recyclable materials while reshaping supply chain capabilities
Digital transparency tools and sorting requirements enhance consumer participation in recycling and reuse systems
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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