Intermediate Bulk Containers Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Type, Material (Metal, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, High-Density Polyethylene and Other Materials), Size Capacity, Application, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC) Market is accounted for $23.86 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $41.17 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are versatile industrial containers designed for transporting and storing bulk liquids and powders. Constructed from durable materials like plastic, metal, or composite materials, IBCs typically feature a cubic or rectangular shape with a capacity ranging from 200 to 3000 litres. They often incorporate pallet bases for easy handling with forklifts or pallet jacks. IBCs are favoured for their stackability, reusability, and compatibility with various filling and discharge methods, including valves, pumps, and screw caps.

According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), packaged food market in India is expected to double by almost US$ 70 billion by 2025.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Escalating industrialization

The need for effective bulk liquid storage and transportation solutions rises in tandem with industry expansion. IBCs offer a reliable means to handle large quantities of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food products, and other substances essential for industrial processes. With their ability to streamline logistics, reduce product wastage, and enhance operational efficiency, IBCs become indispensable assets for industries operating in increasingly dynamic and competitive environments. Consequently, the rising tide of industrialization propels the growth of the IBC market, fostering innovation and market expansion.

Restraint:

Disposal and recycling challenges

Disposal and recycling challenges in IBC primarily stem from the diversity of materials used in their construction and the presence of potentially hazardous residues. Sorting and separating materials for recycling can be labor-intensive and costly due to variations in IBC designs and compositions. Moreover, ensuring proper cleaning and decontamination processes adds complexity. These challenges not only increase operational costs but also limit the feasibility of recycling programs, thereby hampering the market growth.

Opportunity:

Expansion of the global trade network

As international trade continues to grow, there's a heightened demand for efficient and reliable bulk liquid transportation and storage solutions. IBCs offer a versatile and cost-effective means to transport various liquids across long distances while ensuring product integrity and safety. Their standardized design facilitates seamless handling and interoperability across different regions, contributing to smoother logistics operations. Moreover, IBCs enable businesses to capitalize on new market opportunities by providing a flexible and scalable solution to meet evolving trade demands, thereby driving market growth.

Threat:

High initial investment costs

IBCs often have high initial investment costs due to their robust construction, specialized materials, and compliance with safety standards. These costs encompass manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory certifications. Additionally, high initial costs can prolong the return on investment period, dissuading potential buyers. Consequently, the barrier to entry prevents broader adoption of IBCs, limiting market expansion. Such expenses can deter smaller businesses with limited budgets from investing in IBCs, restricting market growth.

Covid-19 Impact

The covid-19 pandemic significantly impacted the intermediate bulk containers (IBC) market. Initially, disruptions in global supply chains led to shortages of raw materials and manufacturing delays, affecting production and distribution of IBCs. As the pandemic progressed, increased demand for essential goods and pharmaceuticals bolstered the IBC market, particularly for storage and transportation purposes. However, strict lockdown measures and economic uncertainties dampened overall market growth. Innovations in sanitation and safety measures within the industry emerged in response to the pandemic, shaping the future trajectory of the IBC market.

The metal segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The metal segment is estimated to have a lucrative growth. Metal intermediate bulk containers offer robust and durable solutions for bulk liquid transportation and storage needs. With their sturdy construction, typically made of stainless steel or carbon steel, IBCs ensure the safe handling and protection of various liquids, including chemicals, oils, and solvents. These containers are highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring the integrity of the stored contents. Their long-term cost-effectiveness, sustainability and popularity are further propels the segment demand.

The oil & lubricants segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The oil & lubricants segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR growth during the forecast period. IBCs) play a crucial role in the storage and transportation of oil and lubricants. These containers offer a secure and efficient solution for handling bulk quantities of oils and lubricants in various industrial applications. Their robust construction and compatibility with a wide range of liquids ensure the integrity and safety of the stored contents during transit and storage. Overall, IBCs are indispensable in the oil and lubricants industry for their reliability and convenience.

Region with largest share:

Asia Pacific is projected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period owing to its increasing industrialization, rising demand for efficient storage and transportation solutions, and expanding chemical, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage industries. Technological advancements in IBC designs to enhance durability, safety, and sustainability further contribute to market expansion. Additionally, stringent regulations regarding packaging and transportation safety are driving the adoption of IBCs. With a focus on cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability, the Asia Pacific IBC market is poised for continued growth and innovation.

Region with highest CAGR:

Europe is projected to have the highest CAGR over the forecast period. Increasing adoption of IBCs across various industries such as chemicals, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals is driving market expansion. Additionally, stringent regulations regarding safe handling and transportation of goods are boosting the demand for high-quality IBCs with advanced safety features. Furthermore, the focus on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions is propelling the development of reusable and recyclable IBCs in the European market. Overall, the European IBC market is poised for continued growth and innovation in the coming years.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC) Market include BASF SE, CDF Corporation, Greif Inc., Time Technoplast Limited, Hoover Ferguson Group, Snyder Industries, THIELMANN, Berry Global, Bulk Handling Australia (BHA), CHEP, Schutz GmbH & Co. KGaA, Mauser Packaging Solutions, Plymouth Industries LLC and Schoeller Allibert.

Key Developments:

In October 2023, CDF Corporation has announced the launch of a new Form-Fit intermediate bulk container (IBC) liner manufacturing line. This production line will be strategically housed within the state-of-the-art facility of J Natzan Kunststoffverarbeitung GmbH & Co KG in Lienen, Germany.

In September 2023, Greif, a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, has opened a new intermediate bulk container (IBC) manufacturing facility in Dilovasi, Turkey. This investment showcases Greif's commitment to strengthening its global presence and expanding its reach to serve customers more efficiently across Turkey and nearby regions.

Types Covered:

• Flexible
• Rigid
• Composite
• Other Types

Materials Covered:

• Metal
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Other Materials

Size Capacities Covered:

• Less Than 500 Litres
• 500 - 1000 Litres
• 1000 - 1500 Litres
• More Than 1500 Litres

Applications Covered:

• Storage
• Transportation
• Handling
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:

• Chemicals
• Food & Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil & Lubricants
• Agriculture
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances