The Versatile Future of Plastic Tubes: Innovation Driving Sustainability and Functionality
The global plastic tube market has encountered unprecedented growth as a result of several converging factors throughout 2023. One key factor is the development that has been seen in the cosmetics and personal care sector as plastic tubes have become the packaging of choice for lotions, gels, creams, etc.
In 2023, the market size of the cosmetics industry globally is projected to have been above US$ 320 billion and since a large proportion of the products aim for easy and smooth packaging, the requirement for plastic tubes has augmented to match this. Furthermore, the growth of the pharma industry particularly in developing countries has augmented the usage of plastic tubes in ointments and topical medications, which has resulted in more demand.
The economic structure of the plastic tubes ecosystem is still evolving, and a report by Astute Analytica Projects that the global plastic tubes market is expected to reach a market size of US$ 27.75 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 6.6% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032.
A brief about the market: -
Apart from this, association with any of the sustainable innovations can bring a substantial change to the growth of the plastic tube market, particularly concerning the manufacturing of sustainable plastic materials. There is a worldwide move towards the use of biodegradable and recyclable plastics. In 2023, more than 2 million metric tons of bio-based plastics were produced, largely for tube packaging. Such development not only fulfills the environmental challenges but also opens up new markets that in the past were hesitant to take up plastic packaging for sustainability concerns.
According to estimates, more than 50 billion plastic tubes are produced globally each year. A considerable growth rate of the plastic tube market can be attributed to the Asia-Pacific region, predominantly India and China, on account of the region's accelerated pace of industrialization and urbanization, which in turn has contributed to higher usage of personal care products. Also, the food sector has begun utilizing plastic tube packaging for items such as seasonings and sauces which further sustained the growth. The flexibility, ease, and cost advantages that accompany the invention of plastic tubes will guarantee that demand will continue to grow by 2023 and beyond.
Growth in Cosmetics Industry Demands User-Friendly Plastic Tube Packaging Solutions
The growth of the personal care and cosmetics market is remarkable indeed. It is more pronounced in growing countries where consumers’ wallets are opening wider for beauty and personal care products. As a result, the market enrolls more clients. In addition, the beauty industry has hundreds of products that come in the form of plastic tubes. Tubes have become increasingly preferred in this segment of the plastic tube market due to their convenience and effective space management. The user can squeeze a plastic tube, which makes it easier to dispense gels, creams, and lotions, thereby improving the experience.
Considering the usage of plastic tubes, the cosmetics sector is said to account for a major portion of the market. For instance, it is estimated that in 2023 upwards of 30 billion plastic tubes alone for cosmetic products are used annually. Its high usage is attributed to the continuous expansion of new products and companies are using plastic tubes more widely due to their broad reach and economical costs. In addition, the plastic tubes market witnessed a substantial gain as they can be altered in regards to their length, diameter, and graphics which is necessary due to the high market competitiveness.
The demand is further boosted by trends such as the growing focus on natural and organic products, which usually come in smaller, premium-sized plastic tubes. Moreover, the growth of e-commerce has globalized the availability of cosmetic products which require to be packed in durable and lightweight containers for shipping. Some manufacturers are working on producing products in tubes with better barrier properties so that the expectancy of quality and sustainability requirements of consumers is met at the same time extending the product shelf life.
Shift Towards Recyclable and Biodegradable Plastic Tubes for Sustainability
It is necessary to say that environmental sustainability has become one of the top concerns among consumers and manufacturers in the plastic tubes market. There is a considerable transition in utilizing recyclable and biodegradable materials in the manufacturing of plastic tubes to stop problems caused by plastic waste and littering. There is a growing demand for bio-based plastics, which are produced from environment-friendly materials such as corn starch and sugar cane. In 2023, bio-based plastic production accounted for more than 2 million metric tons.
Tubes made out of eco-friendly plastic are gaining traction in the plastic tube market. Companies are pouring resources into attempts to engineer tubes that can both pass environmentally friendly tests as well as fulfill the functional and aesthetic demands of brands and consumers. Also, the cost of making these biodegradable tubes has gone down, courtesy of economies of scale and technological advances. Therefore, putting them in the same league as traditional plastic. This evolution is catalyzed by the transformation in consumer preferences and their growing desire for environmentally appropriate goods. Companies that utilize green packaging are looked upon more favorably and thus have a leg up on the competition. There is also government interference as other governments start to frown on single-use plastics and advocate for the use of recyclable material. Because of this, manufacturers have had to adapt quickly to ensure that their products fulfill the current needs and requirements of consumers.
Recent Launches and Developments: -
In 2024, Berry Global developed a lightweight tube closure solution that combines modern design and material versatility with a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Adding to Berry’s extensive range of tube closures, the new Slimline range produces greenhouse gas savings compared to standard caps via a new lightweight and low-profile design. As one of the lightest solutions currently available on the market, the closures fulfill customers’ performance requirements and highlight Berry’s commitment to minimizing the use of virgin plastic. The closures will be available in 35mm and 50mm diameters, each in glossy and matt surface finishes and with 3mm and 5mm orifices. The closures can be manufactured in virgin polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) or with food-safe post-consumer recycled plastic (rPE and rPP) from CleanStream, Berry's internal, closed-loop recycling procedure. These alternatives allow brand owners to match closure and tube materials, forming a mono-material pack for ease of recycling.
“The tubing market is witnessing a greater pace of change currently as companies continue to look for more sustainable pack formats without compromising on aesthetics or performance,” said Thierry Bernet, VP of Circular Economy and Innovation for Berry Global CPI. The Slimline design is perfect for a wide variety of personal care and pharmaceutical applications, such as body wash, skincare, and hair care, and it is compatible with the new generation of flat tube shoulders. Features such as a broad opening angle, comfortable finger recess, and active hinge for easy opening help ensure maximum consumer convenience. To deliver the flexibility to meet changing market demands and customer needs, Berry has designed an advanced and agile production cell.
Closing Note: -
The future of plastic tubes is undeniably related to sustainability, innovation, and functionality. As industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food continue to grow, plastic tubes are proving to be an indispensable packaging solution. Their versatility, combined with advancements in design and materials, ensures that they will stay a staple for years to come. The rising demand for user-friendly packaging that is also eco-conscious is pushing manufacturers to rethink conventional plastic tube production, paving the way for biodegradable and recyclable alternatives that fulfill consumer expectations for sustainability without sacrificing performance. The transition toward bio-based plastics is a particularly exciting development, delivering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. As biodegradable and recyclable materials become more affordable and readily available, the environmental footprint of plastic tubes can be significantly decreased. This is particularly necessary in the face of mounting concerns about plastic waste and its impact on the planet. With innovations in material science, people can expect plastic tubes to become more sustainable, reinforcing the plastic tube industry’s commitment to decreasing waste while improving functionality.
Moreover, the impact of e-commerce and the global demand for beauty and personal care products will continue to drive the plastic tube market's growth. Consumers are seeking durable, convenient, and aesthetically appealing packaging solutions, and plastic tubes are produced on all fronts. With customizable shapes, sizes, and designs, plastic tubes can cater to a variety of consumer preferences and brand identities. The ongoing evolution of the plastic tube industry, propelled by technological advancements and consumer preferences, will likely bring about a new era of packaging that balances sustainability with convenience.
In conclusion, the plastic tube market is poised for a dynamic future marked by growth, innovation, and an unwavering focus on sustainability. As companies adopt greener practices and explore new materials, the role of plastic tubes as an important packaging solution will only expand, cementing their place as a crucial element in driving the future of packaging across different industries. The journey towards a more sustainable and functional packaging solution is just beginning, and the future looks promising.