Sachet and Stick Packaging Machine Market

Market Overview

The global sachet and stick packaging machine market size was valued at USD 563.85 million in 2023. It is estimated to reach USD 978.71 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.32% during the forecast period (2024–2032). The packaging industry's evolving trends have had an impact on sachet packaging equipment in recent years. Some of the main factors expected to affect shipments of sachet packaging machines include rising nutraceutical consumption, rising demand for sachet packing in the pharmaceutical industry, the rising popularity of automatic sachet packaging machines, and the rising popularity of sachet filling machines convenience.

Highlights

• Stick packaging dominates the type segment
• Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) dominates the technology segment
• Power and granule dominate the product type segment
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market

Market Overview

Sachets, those tiny, flexible, sealed packets typically composed of three or four layers of packaging, offer versatile solutions across various industries. They can be crafted from aluminum, paper, cellulose, plastic, or fabric, accommodating goods in liquid, powder, or capsule forms, ranging from tea and coffee to ketchup, spices, and personal care products like cream and lubricant. Sachet packaging boasts several advantages, primarily utilized in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care sectors.

Its compact size reduces storage space and shipping costs, making it an economical business choice. This affordability particularly appeals to price-conscious consumers, including low-income groups such as the impoverished or lower-middle class, who prioritize budget-friendly options. However, the sustainability of sachet materials poses a significant challenge. To address this concern, manufacturers actively explore sustainable alternatives and recycling options to minimize environmental impact while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Market Dynamics

Global Sachet and Stick Packaging Machine Market Drivers

Increasing Sachet Affordability and Accessibility

Manufacturers across various industries seek to capitalize on consumer affordability and boost sales revenue by offering their products in small quantities, driving the demand for sachets. This trend is prominent in the food and beverage, personal care, and cosmetics sectors, where sachets provide a cost-effective packaging solution. The appeal of sachets lies in their low cost per unit, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. As the demand for single-use sachets, including those for shampoo and ketchup, continues to rise, there is a corresponding increase in the demand for small sachet packing machines. These machines enable efficient and cost-effective packaging of products in small quantities, meeting the evolving needs of manufacturers and consumers alike.

Moreover, the burgeoning economies of countries like China, India, and Brazil are expected to drive significant demand for small sachet packaging systems. As these economies experience growth and prosperity, there is a corresponding increase in consumer demand for affordable and convenient packaging options. For example, NR Instant Produce PCL, based in Thailand, has leveraged innovative V-shaped sachet packaging to fuel its continued growth. This unique packaging solution not only enhances product visibility but also offers convenience and ease of use for consumers.

Global Sachet and Stick Packaging Machine Market Restraint

Limited Shelf Life

Products packaged in sachets and stick packs may face air and moisture exposure challenges, potentially resulting in a shorter shelf life compared to larger containers. This limitation may restrict their suitability for certain goods. Typically composed of flexible materials like foil or plastic, sachets, and stick packs offer portability and convenience but may not provide optimal barrier protection against moisture and air. For instance, oxidation-sensitive items such as certain spices, high-fat foods (like nuts and chips), and some medications may not be ideal for long-term storage in sachets or stick packs due to the risk of degradation when exposed to air. Additionally, powders like coffee, powdered milk, medications, and bath salts are prone to moisture absorption, making them less suitable for sachet packaging when extended shelf life is required.

Furthermore, certain drugs and medical supplies necessitate sterile packaging to prevent contamination. Achieving sterile packaging requires aseptic filling methods, which may not be feasible with traditional sachet and stick pack machines. Therefore, while sachets and stick packs offer convenience, it's essential to consider their potential impact on shelf life when selecting packaging for specific products. Manufacturers must assess the suitability of sachet packaging for their goods, considering factors such as susceptibility to oxidation, moisture absorption, and the need for sterile packaging in medical applications. By carefully evaluating these considerations, companies can ensure that their products maintain quality and safety throughout their intended shelf life.

Global Sachet and Stick Packaging Machine Market Opportunities

Technological Advancements

Expanding the market reach of sachet and stick pack packaging can be achieved through innovations that cater to a broader range of products, including those requiring aseptic filling or having high viscosity. Investing in automation and machine learning technologies presents an opportunity to reduce operating costs, increase production efficiency, and minimize waste. By leveraging automation, manufacturers can streamline processes and optimize resource utilization, thereby enhancing overall productivity and competitiveness in the market.

Moreover, the development of machinery capable of handling challenging products can significantly expand the market reach of stick packs and sachet packaging. This includes innovations that address the unique requirements of products with varying viscosities or those requiring aseptic filling, ensuring versatility and adaptability to diverse production needs. For example, Gualapack's introduction of a 100% recyclable monolayer pouch for Frucht Bar's baby food pouches exemplifies the industry's commitment to sustainability and innovation. Such initiatives cater to evolving consumer preferences and contribute to environmental sustainability efforts.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global sachet and stick packaging machine market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. 

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global sachet and stick packaging machine market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period. Stick and sachet packaging is gaining traction in the food and beverage sector, particularly for takeout and fast food. The United States leads in spending on eating out, claiming about 60% of the regional market share, with Canada and Mexico also notable players in North America. Given the high prices of many fast-food chains and restaurants, condiments like pickles, ketchup, and juices are often packaged in sachets for portion control and convenience. The proliferation of vending machines in public and workplace settings, coupled with evolving lifestyle preferences, further fuels the growth of this market in North America. The region's robust takeout culture and penchant for convenience, alongside its dominant position in the fast-food industry, solidify its leadership in stick and sachet packaging globally.

Moreover, the regional market is expanding due to the rising popularity of vending machines and shifting consumer behaviors. North America's emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions and technological advancements further strengthens its role as a primary driver of growth and innovation in the global market. In conclusion, North America's leading position in stick and sachet packaging is attributed to its food consumption patterns, convenience-driven trends, and the dynamic fast-food industry. Its commitment to sustainability and technological progress also cements its significance in shaping the future of packaging solutions worldwide.

Segmental Analysis

The global sachet and stick packaging machine market is bifurcated into type, technology, product type, and application.

Based on type, the global sachet and stick packaging machine market is segmented into sachet packaging and stick packaging.

The stick packaging segment dominates the global market. Stick packaging is a versatile solution characterized by its slender and elongated form, offering ease of handling and convenience for on-the-go products. Widely embraced across industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and single-dose product manufacturing, stick packaging has emerged as a preferred choice for various applications. The global stick packaging market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by advancements in the flexible packaging industry and a surge in demand for convenient and portable products.

This trend underscores the increasing preference among consumers for on-the-go solutions that offer convenience without compromising on quality or functionality. As consumer lifestyles become more fast-paced and mobile, the demand for compact and portable packaging solutions like stick packs continues to rise. Their slender design and flexibility make them ideal for various products, from snacks and beverages to pharmaceuticals and personal care items.

Based on technology, the global sachet and stick packaging machine market is segmented into Horizontal Form Fill Seal (HFFS) and Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS).

The Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) segment owns the highest market share. Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) is a sophisticated automated assembly-line packaging system extensively utilized in food and other industries. This innovative technology revolutionizes the packaging process by seamlessly constructing plastic bags and stand-up pouches from a flat roll of film, subsequently filling them with the desired product before sealing them securely. The VFFS machine operates vertically, with each unit's sealing action triggering the formation of the next, ensuring a continuous and efficient production flow. This vertical configuration optimizes time and materials while minimizing waste, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly packaging solution.

With its ability to streamline the packaging process and deliver consistently high-quality results, VFFS technology has become indispensable in modern manufacturing operations. Whether packaging snacks, beverages, or non-food items, VFFS machines offer versatility, reliability, and precision, meeting the diverse needs of today's dynamic market.

Based on product type, the market is bifurcated into powder and granule, liquid products, and others.

The power and granule segment dominates the global market. The power and granule segment within the stick and sachet packaging market pertains to the packaging of powdered and granulated products across various industries. These products encompass diverse items, including food and beverage products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial goods. Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving these products' quality, freshness, and safety throughout transportation and storage.

The growth of this segment can be ascribed to the rising demand for convenient and portable packaging solutions tailored to powdered and granulated products. Consumers increasingly seek on-the-go options that offer ease of use and portability without compromising product quality or integrity. As such, the power and granule segment of the stick and sachet packaging market has witnessed significant expansion to meet these evolving consumer preferences.

Based on application, the global sachet and stick packaging machine market is bifurcated into pharmaceutical, personal care and cosmetics, food, and others (chemicals, tobacco, tissue and hygiene).

The food segment within the sachet and stick packaging market encompasses the packaging of various food products in sachets or sticks, offering convenience and portability to consumers. This packaging method is extensively utilized for various food items, including sugar, salt, coffee, tea, spices, and condiments. The sachet and stick packaging market for food products has experienced notable growth, driven by the escalating demand for convenient and portable food options.

Several factors contribute to the growth of the food segment in the sachet and stick packaging market. There is an increasing demand for packaged food products among consumers seeking convenience and ease of use daily. The compact and portable nature of sachets and sticks makes them ideal for on-the-go consumption, catering to busy lifestyles and changing consumer preferences.

Recent Developments

• February 2023 - Mespack and Famartec released integrated VFFS and cartooning solutions for pharmaceutical applications. Mespack and Famartec announced their collaborative development of an integrated vertical form-fill-seal and cartoning solution for primary and secondary packaging in the pharmaceutical sector, designed to meet customer demand for a complete solution to address production needs.
• February 2023 - Volpak, a Coesia company, launched a new Enflex brand series for the pharmaceutical and healthcare market – the Enflex PHS Series comes in different models depending on production needs. The company said the machine range meets the specific requirements of an industry increasingly interested in flexible packaging, especially in the stick-pack format.