Report Overview

Europe Packaged Food Market – Industry Trends & Forecast Report, 2030

Europe Packaged Food Market size by value was estimated at USD 71.6 billion in 2023. During the forecast period between 2024 and 2030, Europe Packaged Food Market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% reaching a value of USD 114.6 billion by 2030. Prominent drivers of the market include shifting consumer preferences towards convenient meal solutions and widespread adoption of food preservation techniques.  A key driver of growth is the burgeoning food processing industry. Urbanization, rising incomes, and an increasing number of working women have collectively accelerated the demand for prepackaged and ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, particularly within the urban middle class. Demographic shift has correspondingly elevated the demand for specialty and high-value processed food products. Rising disposable incomes, evolving dietary preferences, and the growth of dual-income households have collectively spurred demand for convenient and RTE food products.

Major market players adeptly cater to Europe's diverse culinary heritage by offering products aligned with regional tastes. Moreover, the increasing health consciousness among consumers has prompted manufacturers to prioritize nutritional value and incorporate organic ingredients. Initiatives by the governments across European countries aimed at enhancing food safety and regulatory frameworks have instilled greater consumer confidence, thereby contributing to market expansion. The active participation of both domestic and international players is expected to foster innovation and intensify competition, further propelling the market's growth trajectory.

Packaged Food – Overview

Packaged food, or processed food, refers to pre-prepared items sealed in packaging for consumer sale. This food undergoes various processing methods, such as washing, cooking, freezing, canning, or adding preservatives to extend its shelf life. Available in forms like canned goods, frozen meals, snacks, and beverages, packaged food is designed to preserve and protect the contents from contamination. Packaging often includes labels with vital details like ingredients, nutritional information, and expiration dates, helping consumers make informed choices. Additionally, packaged food provides convenience and saves time in meal preparation.

Europe Packaged Food Market

Growth Drivers

Busier Workforce with Rising Disposable Income

In Europe, the growth of packaged foods is significantly influenced by rising disposable incomes and increasingly busy lifestyles. As the number of working women and dual-income households rises, there is a noticeable shift toward on-the-go consumption. Busy work schedules make it challenging for individuals to prepare meals from scratch, thus driving the demand for convenient food options. This shift is expected to boost the utilization of innovative and sustainable packaging technologies, designed to enhance the sensory and nutritional qualities of food and extend its shelf life.

Increasing Preference for Convenience Food Products

The increasing preference for convenience is a major driver for Europe Packaged Food Market. Consumers in the region are seeking products that offer ease of use and quick preparation due to their hectic lifestyles. The trend is prompting a rise in demand for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. As awareness about environmental issues grows, there is a heightened focus on eco-friendly packaging. Companies are responding by introducing sustainable options that align with the shift toward both convenience and environmental responsibility.

Challenges

Fluctuating Prices of Packaged Foods

High volatility in prices of raw materials and packaged foods poses a significant challenge to the growth of Europe Packaged Food Market. Fluctuations in raw material prices, supply chain disruptions, and varying production expenses contribute to price instabilities, affecting consumer purchasing power and market demand. Frequent price changes could lead to reduced consumer confidence and shift preferences toward more stable alternatives. Additionally, inconsistent pricing impacts the profitability of manufacturers and retailers, potentially hindering investments in innovations and expansion.

Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on Europe Packaged Food Market

Escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly the prolonging Russia-Ukraine war further spreading across and beyond the region, could have a significant impact on the growth of Europe Packaged Food Market. Trade restrictions, sanctions, and diplomatic conflicts could disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages of raw materials and increased production costs. Economic, trade, and political tensions and sanctions may also hinder international trade agreements, affecting import and export activities. In the United Kingdom, the government announced in May 2024 that it would urge its citizens to stockpile essentials, including packaged and canned food products, through special campaigns during the emergencies. Additionally, political instabilities in key trading partners could result in fluctuating prices and reduced market confidence. Uncertainties caused by geopolitical issues could lead to cautious consumer spending and investments, thereby restraining market growth. Consequently, maintaining stable political relations is crucial for the sustained growth of Europe Packaged Food Market in the coming years.

Europe Packaged Food Market

Segmental Coverage

Europe Packaged Food Market – By Product

On the basis of Product, Europe Packaged Food Market is divided into Bakery & Confectionary Products, Dairy Products, Snacks & Nutritional Bars, Beverages, Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments, and other (Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Meals, Breakfast Cereals, Processed Meats, Rice, Pasta & Noodles, and Ice Creams & Frozen Novelties) segments. The bakery & confectionary products segment holds the highest share in Europe Packaged Food Market by type, due to the growing preference for convenient and ready-to-eat foods, alongside an expanding middle class with increasing disposable incomes. It includes a range of items like bread, biscuits, cakes, and pastries. With annual production exceeding 3 million tons, the bakery & confectionary products segment dominates, with bread and biscuits contributing about 82% of the total bakery output. Biscuits, in particular, show rapid growth, especially in specialty varieties. The market benefits from both organized and unorganized sectors, with products being an essential part of daily nutrition and accessible in various pack sizes. The bakery & confectionary products significant share reflects its crucial role in the European Packaged Food Market.

Europe Packaged Food Market – By Distribution Channel

Based on distribution channel, Europe Packaged Food Market is segmented into Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, and others (including Specialty Food Stores). The supermarkets & hypermarkets segment holds the largest share of Europe Packaged Food Market by distribution channel, due to their wide product range, competitive pricing, and the convenience they offer to consumers. These retail formats provide a one-stop shopping experience, enabling customers to access diverse packaged food products under one roof. Additionally, their extensive reach and ability to cater to varying consumer needs through large-scale inventory and promotions enhance their appeal. The growing urban population and increasing consumer preference for organized retail further solidify supermarkets and hypermarkets' position in the market.

Europe Packaged Food Market – By Country

The in-depth research report on Europe Packaged Food Market covers the market in the region’s major countries including Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Spain, Belgium, Russia, The Netherlands, and Rest of Europe. Germany holds the highest share in Europe Packaged Food Market and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. Major growth factors for Germany Packaged Food Market include the significant presence of densely populated urban centers with large working populations with busy lifestyle.

Competitive Landscape

Major players operating in Europe Packaged Food Market include Nestlé S.A., Unilever PLC, Mondelez International, Mars, Incorporated, Danone S.A., Ferrero SpA, Kellogg Company, Heineken N.V., Diageo plc,  and Carlsberg Group. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Recent Developments

• In June 2024 – Mondelēz, a global food product major, and Saica Group, a leading provider of sustainable solutions for paper & packaging manufacturing and waste management & recovery, formed a partnership to introduce a new paper-based product for the confectionery, biscuits, and chocolates. The new product is said to be recyclable in the paper waste stream.

Scope of the Report

By Product

• Bakery & Confectionary Products

• Dairy Products

• Snacks & Nutritional Bars

• Beverages

• Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

• Others (Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Meals; Breakfast Cereals; Processed Meats; Rice, Pasta, and Noodles; Ice Creams & Frozen Novelties)

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets & Hypermarkets

• Convenience Stores

• Online

• Others (Specialty Food Stores)

By Country

• Germany

• United Kingdom

• Italy

• France

• Spain

• Belgium

• Russia

• The Netherlands

• Rest of Europe

1. Research Framework
   1. Research Objective
   2. Product Overview
   3. Market Segmentation
2. Executive Summary
3. Europe Packaged Food Market Insights
   1. Industry Value Chain Analysis
   2. DROC Analysis
      1. Growth Drivers
         1. Rising disposable income and busy lifestyles
         2. Growing working population
         3. Expanding retail sector
      2. Restraints
         1. Fluctuating price of packaged foods
         2. Growing awareness of the health risks associated with processed foods
      3. Opportunities
         1. Rising demand for healthy packaged foods
         2. Growth of e-commerce
      4. Challenges
         1. Fluctuating prices of raw materials
         2. Presence of counterfeit products
   3. Technological Advancements/Recent Developments
   4. Regulatory Framework
   5. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
      1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
      2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
      3. Threat of New Entrants
      4. Threat of Substitutes
      5. Intensity of Rivalry
4. Europe Packaged Food Market: Marketing Strategies
5. Europe Packaged Food Market Overview
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
      1. By Value (USD Million)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Product
         1. Bakery & Confectionary Products
         2. Dairy Products
         3. Snacks & Nutritional Bars
         4. Beverages
         5. Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments
         6. Others (Ready-to-Eat Meals, Breakfast Cereals, Processed Meats, Rice, Pasta, and Noodles, Ice Creams & Frozen Novelties)
      2. By Distribution Channel
         1. Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
         2. Convenience Store
         3. Online
         4. Others (Specialty Food Stores)
      3. By Country
         1. Germany
         2. United Kingdom
         3. Italy
         4. France
         5. Spain
         6. Belgium
         7. Russia
         8. The Netherlands
         9. Rest of Europe
6. Germany Packaged Food Market
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
      1. By Value (USD Million)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Product
      2. By Distribution Channel
7. United Kingdom Packaged Food Market
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
      1. By Value (USD Million)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Product
      2. By Distribution Channel
8. Italy Packaged Food Market
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
      1. By Value (USD Million)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Product
      2. By Distribution Channel
9. France Packaged Food Market
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
      1. By Value (USD Million)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Product
      2. By Distribution Channel
10. Spain Packaged Food Market
    1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
       1. By Value (USD Million)
    2. Market Share & Forecast
       1. By Product
       2. By Distribution Channel
11. Belgium Packaged Food Market
    1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
       1. By Value (USD Million)
    2. Market Share & Forecast
       1. By Product
       2. By Distribution Channel
12. Russia Packaged Food Market
    1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
       1. By Value (USD Million)
    2. Market Share & Forecast
       1. By Product
       2. By Distribution Channel
13. The Netherlands Packaged Food Market
    1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
       1. By Value (USD Million)
    2. Market Share & Forecast
       1. By Product
       2. By Distribution Channel
14. Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market
    1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2030
       1. By Value (USD Million)
    2. Market Share & Forecast
       1. By Product
       2. By Distribution Channel
15. Competitive Landscape
    1. List of Key Players and Their Offerings
    2. Europe Packaged Food Company Market Share Analysis, 2023
    3. Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating Parameters
    4. Key Strategic Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, Partnerships, etc.)
16. Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on Europe Packaged Food Market
17. Company Profiles (Company Overview, Financial Matrix, Competitive Landscape, Key Personnel, Key Competitors, Contact Address, Strategic Outlook, and  SWOT Analysis)
    1. Nestlé S.A
    2. Unilever PLC
    3. Mondelez International
    4. Mars, Incorporated
    5. Danone S.A
    6. Ferrero SpA
    7. Kellogg Company
    8. Heineken N.V
    9. Diageo plc
    10. Carlsberg Group
    11. Other Prominent Players
18. Key Strategic Recommendations
19. Research Methodology
    1.       Qualitative Research
       1.   Primary & Secondary Research
    2.       Quantitative Research
    3.       Market Breakdown & Data Triangulation
       1.   Secondary Research
       2.   Primary Research
    4.       Breakdown of Primary Research Respondents, By Region
    5.       Assumptions & Limitations

*Financial information of non-listed companies can be provided as per availability.

**The segmentation and the companies are subject to modifications based on in-depth secondary research for the final deliverable

List of Figures

Figure 1       Europe Packaged Food  Segmentation

Figure 2       Europe Packaged Food Market Value Chain Analysis

Figure 3       Company Market Share Analysis, 2023

Figure 4       Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030        

Figure 5       Europe Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030       

Figure 6       Europe Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 7       Europe Packaged Food Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2030       

Figure 8       Germany Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030    

Figure 9       Germany Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030    

Figure 10     Germany Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 11     United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030          

Figure 12     United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030          

Figure 13     United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030 

Figure 14     Italy Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030  

Figure 15     Italy Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030 

Figure 16     Italy Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030          

Figure 17     France Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Figure 18     France Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030        

Figure 19     France Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 20     Spain Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Figure 21     Spain Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Figure 22     Spain Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 23     Belgium Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030      

Figure 24     Belgium Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030      

Figure 25     Belgium Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 26     Russia Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Figure 27     Russia Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Figure 28     Russia Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030  

Figure 29     The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030          

Figure 30     The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030          

Figure 31     The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030 

Figure 32     Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030          

Figure 33     Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Share, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030          

Figure 34     Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Share, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030 

List of Tables

Table 1 Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 2 Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 3 Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 4 Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 5 Germany Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 6 Germany Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 7 Germany Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 8 United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 9 United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 10      United Kingdom Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 11      Italy Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 12      Italy Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 13      Italy Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 14      France Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 15      France Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 16      France Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 17      Spain Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 18      Spain Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 19      Spain Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 20      Belgium Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 21      Belgium Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 22      Belgium Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 23      Russia Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 24      Russia Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 25      Russia Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 26      The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 27      The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 28      The Netherlands Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 29      Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Value (USD Million), 2019–2030

Table 30      Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Product, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 31      Rest of Europe Packaged Food Market Size, By Distribution Channel, By Value, 2019–2030

Table 32      Nestlé S.A Company Overview

Table 33      Nestlé S.A Financial Overview

Table 34      Unilever PLC Company Overview

Table 35      Unilever PLC Financial Overview

Table 36      Mondelez International Company Overview

Table 37      Mondelez International Financial Overview

Table 38      Mars, Incorporated Company Overview

Table 39      Mars, Incorporated Financial Overview

Table 40      Danone S.A Company Overview

Table 41      Danone S.A Financial Overview

Table 42      Ferrero SpA Company Overview

Table 43      Ferrero SpA Financial Overview

Table 44      Kellogg Company - Company Overview

Table 45      Kellogg Company Financial Overview

Table 46      Heineken N.V Company Overview

Table 47      Heineken N.V Financial Overview

Table 48      Diageo plc Company Overview

Table 49      Diageo plc Financial Overview

Table 50      Carlsberg Group  Company Overview

Table 51      Carlsberg Group  Financial Overview