COLLAPSIBLE METAL TUBES MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)

The Global Collapsible Metal Tube Market size is was valued at US$ 10.20 Bn in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 16.82 Bn by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2023 to 2030.

Collapsible metal tubes are packaging solutions made up of aluminum, tin, or plastic laminated with aluminum. They are lightweight, customizable, and recyclable. The key advantage of collapsible metal tubes is that they can retain the properties of products  longer period of time They also provide higher barrier protection compared to plastic tubes. The market is driven by the growing consumption of cosmetics and personal care products.

The collapsible metal tubes market is segmented by material type, capacity, product type, application, end-user, and region. By material type, the aluminum segment accounted for the largest share of the market in 2022. Aluminum tubes are preferred due to their low cost, recyclability, and durability.

Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Regional Insights:

• North America is expected to be the largest market for collapsible metal tubes during the forecast period, accounting for over 40% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market in North America is attributed to the established cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industry in the region.
• The Europe market is expected to be the second-largest market for collapsible metal tubes, accounting for over 30% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market is attributed to the high consumption of beauty and cosmetic products in the region.
• The Asia Pacific market is expected to be the fastest-growing market for collapsible metal tubes, with a CAGR of over 8.2% during the forecast period. The growth of the market in Asia Pacific is attributed to the rapid urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles in the region.

Figure 1. Global Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Share (%), by Region, 2023

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Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Drivers:

• Increasing Demand from Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry: The global cosmetics and personal care industry has witnessed steady growth over the last decade, driven by the rising focus on grooming and appearance. Metal tubes are widely used for packaging cosmetic products such as creams, gels, and lotions as they offer an excellent barrier against oxygen, light, and moisture. The cosmetics industry is moving towards premium and sustainable packaging, which is expected to increase the adoption of metal tubes. Manufacturers are developing attractive printing and designs on tubes to target millennial consumers. This steady growth of the cosmetics and personal care industries globally is a major factor driving the collapsible metal tubes market.
• Growing Consumption of Pharmaceutical Products: Metal collapsible tubes are extensively used for packing ointments, gels, nasal sprays, and other pharmaceutical preparations. The global pharmaceuticals market has witnessed substantial growth in the past few years, driven by an aging population, a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, healthcare spending, access to insurance, and advent of new therapies. Pharmaceutical companies employ metal tubes to ensure the formulation is delivered steadily, provide barrier against oxygen and moisture, and allow optimal evacuation as the tube body collapses on dispensing the formulation. The expanding pharmaceutical industry across the globe especially in emerging regions, is anticipated to fuel the growth of the collapsible metal tubes market during the forecast period.
• Focus on Sustainable and Recyclable Packaging: There is an increasing environmental consciousness among consumers and a shift towards adopting recyclable and eco-friendly packaging. Collapsible metal tubes are 100% recyclable and have lower carbon footprint compared to plastic packaging. Manufacturers are developing lightweight, thin-walled, and plastic-free metal tube designs which provide sustainability benefits. Government regulations against single-use plastics and focus on circular economy in countries across Europe and North America is also driving the adoption of recyclable metal packaging like tubes. This rising trend of sustainable packaging solutions is anticipated to propel the collapsible metal tubes market growth over the coming years.
• Demand for Premium and Innovative Designs: The tubes market is witnessing demand for premium and unique packaging, particularly for cosmetics and personal care products. Consumers associate packaging with product quality and brand image. Brand owners are adopting collapsible metal tubes with attractive printing, colors, unique shapes, dispenser caps, and decorative features. The ability to customize the tube body with brand graphics and designs makes it ideal for premium brands. Manufacturers are innovating in terms of tube closures, applicator tips, and discard features. The rising consumer demand for premiumization and customization in packaging is expected to augur well for the collapsible metal tubes market.

Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Opportunities:

• Scope in Emerging Economies: Developing economies in Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa present significant untapped opportunities for collapsible metal tube packaging. Rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and increasing retail infrastructure in these regions have led to higher demand for cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceutical products. Market players have the opportunity to expand their production capacities and distribution networks in emerging markets to garner higher shares. Local manufacturing helps in reducing logistics costs. Setting up facilities in developing regions can also help companies cater to the increasing demand and gain a competitive advantage. For instance, as per United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) data, nearly 35% of the global population still resides in rural areas with limited infrastructure and access to packaged goods.
• Rising Adoption in Food and Homecare Markets: Collapsible metal tubes are gaining traction in food applications such as sauces, condiments, and purees. Metal tubes offer complete protection against oxygen and light compared to plastic tubes, thereby retaining the freshness of food products. Their ability to fully evacuate viscous and liquid contents is beneficial for sauces and purees. Collapsible metal tubes also have untapped potential in home care products such as adhesives, sealants, paints, and lubricants. Market players can focus on expanding into the food and home care segments as it will help diversify their product portfolios. For instance, as per data last updated in 2022 by UNICEF, rural households in developing nations spend a considerable portion of their income on basic hygiene and grooming products. Metal tubes can help improve access to such necessities while generating steady recurring sales for brands.
• Use of Emerging Printing Technologies: Digital printing and advanced printing technologies, such as 3D printing, provide new opportunities for innovation and customization in metal tube packaging. Digital printing enables faster turnaround times, shorter runs, and just-in-time manufacturing. Companies can target niche applications and smaller batch orders through digital printing. 3D printing allows unique shapes, designs, and closures. The collapsible metal tubes market is poised to gain from these emerging technologies as they enable cost-effective customization and personalization, thereby opening new avenues for growth.
• Scope for Product Development and Innovation: Metal tube manufacturers have ample scope for product development and innovation to cater to the growing packaging needs of different sectors. Opportunities exist in designing plastic-free and fully recyclable metal tubes that align with sustainability targets. Developments in plastic-free barrier technology for the tube body and closures provide new avenues for eco-friendly packaging. Companies can also innovate in terms of tube dispensing, re-sealing features, smart packaging, applicator tips, and novel locking mechanisms. Investments in Research and development R&D and collaborations with packaging technology firms provide scope for innovation.

Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Trends:

• Shift towards Plastic-Free and Sustainable Materials: Consumers and brands have become more conscious about plastic waste and the recyclability of packaging. Hence, the tubes market is witnessing a rise in plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable material options for metal tubes. Manufacturers are developing mono-material plastic-free tubes using high density polyethylene HDPE or bio-plastics, which can be easily recycled. Companies are also using more recycled content in the tube body. For instance, Albea introduced EcoLeaf tube made of 75% recycled HDPE. Essel Propack launched ESOL plastic-free tubes using recyclable PP laminate. These sustainability trends are drastically reshaping product development priorities in the collapsible  metal tubes market. Albéa Washington is specialized in manufacturing laminate & plastic tubes for cosmetics, personal care & pharmaceutical markets.
• Increasing Adoption of Aluminum over Tin Metal: Collapsible metal tubes are predominantly made from aluminum and tinplate. However, in recent years, the market has been witnessing a noticeable shift from tinplate-based tubes towards aluminum tubes. Aluminum tubes are lighter, lower in cost, provide a better barrier, and are easier to recycle. Advances in aluminum tube manufacturing, such as emerging billet casting and DWI processes, have enhanced productivity and reduced costs. Aluminum also allows high-quality printing. Government restrictions on tin-based food packaging further propels the adoption of aluminum tubes. This material migration has impacted the raw material supply and product development strategies of metal tube manufacturers.
• Rising Demand for Biodegradable Plastic Tubes: With the growing consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging, the collapsible metal tubes market is witnessing rising uptake of biodegradable plastic tubes. These tubes are made using renewable bioplastics such as Polylactic acid PLA, which have lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastic. Biodegradable plastic tubes provide the sustainability advantages of metal and plastic tubes. Manufacturers are developing bio-based plastic tubes which can be recycled or composted along with food waste. Demand for such tubes is expected to increase from beauty, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food sectors aiming to reduce plastic waste footprint. For instance, data from the European Bioplastics organization, global production capacities of bioplastics grew from 1.6 Mn metric tons in 2018 to 2.1Mn metric tons in 2021.
• Emergence of Digital Printing and Smart Packaging: Digital printing and smart packaging technologies are garnering interest in the collapsible metal tubes market. Digital printing provides opportunities for personalization, customization, and limited design changes. Brands in the beauty, pharmaceuticals, and specialty foods segments are showing an inclination toward digitally printed tubes. Smart collapsible tubes are also emerging, which enable monitoring product quality, safety, and tracking parameters through sensors and QR codes. Anti-counterfeiting through blockchain tagging and cloud database tracking provides value.

Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Restraints:

Presence of Substitute Packaging Solutions: Collapsible metal tubes face stiff competition from alternative packaging solutions like plastic tubes, flexible pouches, dispensers, and stick packs. Plastic tubes are lower-cost and find widespread use for budget cosmetics and toiletries. Stand-up pouches occupy less shelf space and are easier to use. Dispensers offer controlled dosage and convenience. The availability of such packaging substitutes limits the adoption of metal tubes across end-use sectors. Companies are struggling to convey the value proposition of metal tubes amidst stiff competition. This is a major factor hampering market growth to some extent.

For instance, United Nations Comtrade data for 2020, global imports of plastic tubes, bottles, jars and pouches were valued at US$120 Bn which was nearly four times the US$35 Bn imports of all metal packaging containers including collapsible metal tubes.

Counter balance: Invest in technology to develop stronger, lighter and more cost-effective prefabricated metal pipes.

Limitations in High Pressure Applications: While collapsible metal tubes perform well in low and moderate pressure dispensing needs, they have certain limitations in high pressure dispensing above 200 psi. Seam splits, cap blow offs, and bursting are common issues noticed in metal tubes subjected to very high internal pressure during dispensing. This makes their suitability limited for applications requiring aerosol-like sprays and atomization with small droplet sizes. For such needs, the market is shifting towards bag-on-valve systems. This hinders the uptake of collapsible metal tubes in certain higher-pressure dispensing applications. For instance, as per statistics released by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2021, the global paints and coatings market was valued at US$180 Bn in 2020, out of which over 30% involved high pressure spraying applications that are not suitable for collapsible metal tubes.

Counter balance:  Innovates in  sizes, shapes and applicators is required  to meet niche requirements and create new uses.

Slower Growth in Mature Markets of North America and Europe: Cosmetics, skin care, and oral care markets in North America and Europe are relatively mature and characterized by slower growth. Considering collapsible metal tubes have significant penetration in these sectors, sluggish growth in demand hampers market prospects. This has led to looming overcapacity and cut-throat competition between established manufacturers in Europe and North America. Companies are vying for the limited growth opportunities in mature markets through competitive pricing strategies, which further impact profit margins. For instance, according to UN Comtrade data, imports of empty collapsible metal tubes into major European countries like Germany, France, and U.K. declined modestly between 2018 and 2020, reflecting a low domestic demand growth outlook in these markets.

Counter balance: Educate potential users on the benefits of collapsible metal tubes such as product protection, longer shelf life and complete evacuation of contents.

Analyst View

 The global collapsible metal tube market is expected to witness moderate growth over the forecast period. Growing demand for convenient packaging from the cosmetics and personal care industries will drive the adoption of collapsible metal tubes. Their reclosable and compact nature makes them ideal for storing and transporting viscous products.

However, the availability of alternative flexible plastic tubes may restrain market growth. Plastic tubes are cheaper to produce and more lightweight than metal tubes. They also allow for innovative designs and customized shapes. This increases their preference over metal tubes, mainly in low-end products.

The cosmetics industry remains the prominent end-user, utilizing metal tubes for premium products. Skin care products such as creams and ointments showcase significant uptake. Emerging markets like Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa offer lucrative opportunities owing to rising disposable incomes.

Within Asia Pacific, South Asian countries like India are projected to be the fastest-growing regional market. Evolving consumer pools and the rising export focus of domestic cosmetics companies will fuel demand. Nevertheless, stringent environmental regulations over use of non-recyclable materials may impede the market to some extent going forward.

On the whole, the global  collapsible metal tube market is anticipated to witness steady demand from leading personal care verticals globally. Continuous product innovations and increasing hygiene awareness can boost adoption.

Recent Developments:

New product launches:

• In January 2022, Albea launched its paper-like EcoLeaf tube, which provides sustainability benefits. The tube is made from 75% recycled plastic. Albéa is a global company that manufactures packaging and beauty solutions for prestigious and emerging brands around the world. The company provides a wide range of packaging solutions, including cosmetic tubes in various materials, shapes, and sizes, equipped with applicators for makeup and personal care. Additionally, Albéa designs and manufactures custom fragrance caps and skincare packaging for prestigious brands, with a focus on technical innovation and "Made in France" quality. The company is known for its responsible and sustainable packaging solutions, including tubes, lipsticks, mascaras, fragrance caps, and skincare jars, catering to the beauty, personal care, and health markets. Albéa is committed to environmental responsibility and supporting communities. The company has a strong presence in the plastic, laminate, and paper-based packaging sectors, with a focus on innovative and responsible packaging solutions.
• In September 2021, Essel Propack launched ESOL, a plastic-free, fully recyclable metal laminate tube. The tube provides high barrier protection. Essel Propack is a global tube packaging company that provides packaging solutions for various industries, including oral care, beauty and cosmetics, pharma and health, food and nutrition, and home care.
• The company is headquartered in Mumbai, India, and is owned by The Blackstone Group. Essel Propack is a specialty packaging manufacturer of laminated plastic tubes for the FMCG and Pharma space.  The company operates in over 11 countries and has 24 facilities worldwide, selling more than six Bn tubes each year. Essel Propack is known for its innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, including the D16 mini tube innovation with tamper-evident cap, which helps customers' brands enter new categories like eye cream, facial essence, sunscreen cream, and foundation with very consumer-friendly products.

• In June 2020, Montebello Packaging launched the Biotic Tube made using 90% renewable sugarcane plastic. It provides sustainability benefits. Montebello Packaging is a world-class manufacturer of packaging for the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries.
• The company has roots dating back to 1952, when it started producing aluminum tubes for the pharmaceutical industry. Montebello Packaging offers a variety of sustainable packaging options.

Acquisition and partnerships:

• In April 2022, Hoffmann Neopac acquired a majority stake in 3D Technopack. This expanded its presence in Central and Eastern Europe. Hoffmann Neopac is a leading Swiss packaging manufacturer that specializes in producing high-quality Polyfoil®, polyethylene, and COEX tubes, as well as decorative.
• In February 2022, Sonoco acquired the leading manufacturer of sustainable metal packaging for food and household products, Ball metal pack. The metal packaging business complements Sonoco’s largest consumer packaging franchise. Sonoco is a global packaging solutions leader that has been serving various markets since 1899 in more than 85 nations with 330 global plants. The company provides consumer, industrial, healthcare, and protective packaging solutions. Sonoco is committed to creating sustainable products, services, and programs for its customers, employees, and communities that support its corporate purpose.

Figure 2. Global Collapsible Metal Tubes Market Share (%), by Applications, 2023

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Top companies in Collapsible Metal Tubes Market:

• Albea
• Amcor
• Essel Propack
• Huhtamaki
• Montebello Packaging
• Sonoco Products
• ALLTUB
• Linhardt
• Auber Packaging

Definition: Collapsible metal tubes refer to a type of packaging format made from aluminum, tin, or plastic laminated with aluminum. They comprise a round metal tube body that can be squeezed to extrude the content. Collapsible metal tubes provide excellent barrier, durability, stackability and are lightweight and customizable. Key applications include cosmetics, oral care, pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial products. Their collapsible nature allows rolling up the tube body as product is dispensed for optimal evacuation. The tubes are available in different sizes, shapes, and designs.

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