Global Labels Market - 2024-2031

Overview

Global Labels Market reached US$ 40.1 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 55.9 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 4.24% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The global label market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by innovations in printing technologies such as digital and flexographic printing, which enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness and flexibility. The advancements allow industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and logistics to streamline operations, improve product traceability and engage consumers more effectively.

The market is shifting toward more sustainable labeling solutions, as companies prioritize eco-friendly materials in response to growing consumer demand and regulatory pressures. There is an increasing focus on biodegradable, recyclable and compostable materials to minimize environmental impact and align with global sustainability goals.

The trend is reshaping the market, particularly in sectors like cosmetics, where regulatory frameworks such as the FD&C Act in US and the Drugs & Cosmetics Act in India ensure that labeling meets stringent requirements for safety, ingredient transparency and consumer protection. These regulations, alongside the push for sustainability, are driving market dynamics, fostering innovation and ensuring consumer trust in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Dynamics

Impact of Consumer Safety, Transparency and Compliance

The growing focus on consumer safety, transparency and sustainability is driving the global label market, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical and chemical sectors to the demands of the government and the end-users. With consumers demanding more information about product ingredients, allergens, expiry dates and sourcing, businesses are under pressure to comply with strict labeling regulations.

Laws like the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, of 1940, Cosmetic Rules, of 2020 and FSSAI's 2020 packaging guidelines require detailed product information to ensure consumer safety and foster transparency. Non-compliance can lead to costly recalls, legal penalties and restricted market access, making accurate labeling crucial for maintaining consumer trust and protecting brand reputation.

Companies are increasingly using labels to showcase their commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability and health, further fueling the demand for compliant and transparent labeling solutions. The evolving regulatory landscape and rising consumer expectations for transparency are shaping the global label market, making compliance not just a legal obligation but a strategic advantage for businesses seeking to thrive in a competitive and ethically driven marketplace.

Advancements in Printing Technologies

Advancements in printing technologies like digital, flexographic and direct-to-container printing are driving the global label market. Digital printing, in particular, offers flexibility, cost-efficiency and the ability to print variable data, making it ideal for customizable and small-run production. This technology also supports sustainability by reducing waste and enabling faster turnaround times, making it a preferred choice for businesses looking for high-quality, personalized labeling solutions.

The integration of smart packaging technologies such as RFID, NFC chips and QR codes is further accelerating growth. These intelligent labels provide real-time tracking, authentication and condition monitoring, which are crucial for industries like pharmaceuticals and food. As consumers demand more transparency, with 86% prioritizing clear ingredient information, digital printing and smart labels are helping brands build trust, improve supply chain efficiency and drive sustainability.

Rising Cost of Raw Materials

Materials such as paper, plastic and adhesives are essential for label production and their prices have been fluctuating due to global supply chain disruptions, commodity price volatility and geopolitical factors. These increases in raw material costs directly impact manufacturers, leading to higher production expenses. For food and beverage or retail businesses, these rising costs can result in thinner profit margins, forcing them to pass it on to consumers, leading to reduced demand in price-sensitive markets.

The impact of rising raw material costs is felt across the entire value chain of the labels market. As manufacturers face higher input costs, the end price of labels can increase, which affects the overall affordability of products that rely on labeling. Furthermore, companies are under pressure to adopt more sustainable materials and processes, which often come with higher production costs. This adds another layer of complexity for manufacturers.

Segment Analysis

The global labels market is segmented based on type, material, printing technique, ink type, application and region.

Versatility and Durability of Plastics

The global labels market is segmented based on material into plastic, paper and foil. Plastic dominates the global labels market due to its versatility, durability and cost-effectiveness. Materials like polyethylene, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride are ideal for industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and retail, as they can withstand moisture, temperature fluctuations and handling. Plastics ensure high-quality, durable labels that enhance brand appeal while meeting logistical demands.

Plastic labels are highly customizable for various packaging types, including shrink sleeves and in-mold labels, making them essential for modern packaging solutions. The market's reliance on plastic is also driven by the growth of flexible packaging and e-commerce, where plastic offers an affordable, scalable solution. Despite environmental concerns, innovations in recyclable and bio-based plastics continue to support plastic's dominance.

Geographical Penetration

Strong Manufacturing Capacity in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the dominant force in the global label market, driven by its strong manufacturing capacity, rapid industrial growth and technological advancements. Countries like China, India and Japan have become key players, with extensive production facilities that cater to both domestic and international demand. The region's large consumer goods sector, spanning industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and personal care, fuels the need for packaging and labeling solutions.

The growth of e-commerce, particularly in countries like China and India, has significantly boosted demand for labels in online retail, shipping and product packaging. As consumer awareness around sustainability rises, there's an increasing shift toward eco-friendly labels, including recyclable and biodegradable options. Regional economic growth, coupled with investment from major global players such as Avery Dennison and UPM Raflatac, solidifies Asia-Pacific's leadership in the label market.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Mondi Group, Neenah, Inc., LINTEC Corporation, Avery Dennison Corporation, Multi-Color Corporation, Huhtamaki Group, Berry Global Inc., UPM Raflatac, CCL Industries and Klockner Pentaplast.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The Russia-Ukraine war has caused major disruptions in the global labels industry, particularly through supply chain challenges. Key raw materials such as paper, plastics and adhesives, which are sourced from both countries, have been in short supply due to sanctions, trade restrictions and logistical bottlenecks. This has led to significant price hikes and delays in production. Additionally, the war has worsened the global energy crisis, pushing fuel prices higher and increasing manufacturing costs.

In response, label manufacturers face higher operational expenses and have been forced to adapt by seeking alternative sourcing strategies and re-evaluating cost structures. In addition to operational challenges, the geopolitical instability has sparked shifts in consumer demand and industry practices. Companies are turning to localized production to reduce dependency on vulnerable global supply chains, fostering growth in regional label markets.

By Type

• Pressure Sensitive Labels
• Shrink Labels
• Stretch Labels
• Wet Glue Labels
• Others

By Material

• Plastic
• Paper
• Foil

By Printing Technique

• Flexographic Printing
• Digital Printing
• Gravure Printing
• Offset Printing
• Letterpress Printing

By Ink Type

• Solvent Based
• Water Based
• UV Based
• Others

By Application Industry

• Food and Beverages
• Pharmaceutical
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Chemicals
• Automobiles
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• In November 2024, Munbyn launched the Realwriter RW402, a direct thermal label printer designed for small businesses, offering fast, ink-free printing of 4 x 6-inch shipping labels with USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
• In August 2024, Innovia Films launched RayoForm ELR70, a semi-cavitated BOPP film for in-mold labeling on large containers. Its reduced density, high stiffness and two-sided treatment enhance molding and printing performance on PP and PE containers (5-25 liters).
• In September 2024, Avery Dennison introduced INGEDE12-certified paper labels with an adhesive that improves paper recycling quality. The range includes sustainable options like rVellum (100% recycled) and meets EU recyclability standards.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global labels market segmentation based on type, material, printing technique, ink type, application and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous labels market-level data points with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global labels market report would provide approximately 78 tables, 80 figures and 205 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies