GCC Multipack Carton Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecasts 2031

Key Findings

• The GCC Multipack Carton Market is experiencing steady growth driven by increasing demand for sustainable and cost-efficient secondary packaging solutions.

• Rapid expansion of the food, beverage, and personal care industries is fueling adoption of multipack cartons for product bundling and branding.

• The shift toward lightweight, recyclable, and renewable fiber-based materials is redefining carton design innovation in GCC.

• Manufacturers are focusing on automation and precision cutting technologies to improve structural integrity and reduce waste.

• The rise in e-commerce and modern retail formats is promoting the use of durable, shelf-ready multipack cartons.

• Customization and digital printing advancements are enabling brand differentiation through visually appealing packaging.

• Government initiatives supporting recycling and circular packaging solutions are further stimulating market expansion.

• Strategic collaborations between carton producers and consumer goods companies are driving continuous material and design innovations.

GCC Multipack Carton Market Size and Forecast

The GCC Multipack Carton Market is projected to grow from USD 8.4 billion in 2025 to USD 13.2 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period. Growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable packaging, retail-ready product displays, and transportation efficiency. Multipack cartons help manufacturers reduce material use while improving stacking strength and logistics efficiency. In GCC, surging beverage sales, including soft drinks, beer, and dairy products, are a key growth factor. With ongoing innovation in recyclable coatings, adhesives, and barrier layers, the market is expected to remain central to environmentally conscious packaging strategies.

Introduction

Multipack cartons are paperboard-based secondary packaging solutions used for bundling multiple individual products such as cans, bottles, or cartons into a single, easy-to-handle unit. In GCC, they are widely adopted across food, beverage, household, and personal care segments. These cartons offer branding space, structural strength, and efficient transportation, making them ideal for modern retail and e-commerce supply chains. Manufacturers are prioritizing renewable raw materials, automation, and lightweight designs to improve sustainability and cost efficiency. As consumer expectations evolve toward convenience and eco-responsibility, multipack cartons have emerged as a versatile and sustainable alternative to plastic wraps and shrink films.

Future Outlook

By 2031, multipack cartons in GCC will become a standard solution for sustainable secondary packaging across multiple sectors. The integration of digital printing, smart labels, and AR-based engagement features will enhance their marketing value. Innovations in water-resistant coatings and barrier layers will improve performance for chilled and moisture-prone products. Manufacturers will adopt closed-loop recycling systems to achieve zero-waste production goals. With increased automation and on-demand customization, multipack cartons will play a vital role in bridging functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability in GCC’s evolving packaging landscape.

GCC Multipack Carton Market Trends

• Rising Demand for Sustainable Fiber-based Packaging Solutions
  In GCC, consumers and manufacturers are increasingly turning toward paperboard-based multipack cartons as substitutes for plastic shrink wraps. Fiber-based materials offer biodegradability, recyclability, and reduced carbon footprints. Companies are innovating with lightweight yet durable carton grades to minimize raw material use. Sustainability certifications and eco-labels are becoming major marketing tools. This trend underscores the strong alignment between environmental goals and material innovation.

• Adoption of Advanced Printing and Customization Technologies
  The implementation of digital and flexographic printing technologies is revolutionizing multipack carton design in GCC. Brands can now achieve high-quality, vibrant prints with shorter lead times and minimal waste. Personalization and seasonal campaign designs are more feasible due to on-demand printing capabilities. Enhanced printing precision supports high-impact visual marketing in retail environments. This trend highlights how printing technology is driving differentiation and consumer engagement.

• Integration of Automation and Smart Assembly Systems
  Packaging manufacturers in GCC are investing in automated carton folding, gluing, and filling lines to enhance production efficiency. Robotics and computer vision systems ensure precise assembly, improving structural consistency and reducing labor costs. Automation also allows rapid changeovers for multiple SKUs. The trend reflects the industry’s shift toward smart manufacturing to meet growing packaging demand efficiently. This demonstrates how automation is optimizing productivity and scalability.

• Growth in Food and Beverage Multipack Applications
  The expanding beverage and ready-to-eat food sectors are fueling demand for multipack cartons in GCC. Packaging solutions for cans, bottled drinks, and snack products are being optimized for durability and ease of handling. Multipack formats help reduce transportation costs and offer enhanced shelf appeal. Manufacturers are developing moisture-resistant coatings to ensure performance under refrigeration conditions. This trend reinforces the strategic importance of multipack designs in the fast-moving consumer goods segment.

• Increasing Use of Eco-friendly Coatings and Barrier Technologies
  In GCC, companies are shifting toward water-based coatings, recyclable barriers, and bio-laminates to replace plastic linings in cartons. These coatings enhance grease, moisture, and heat resistance while maintaining recyclability. The development of polymer-free alternatives is gaining traction among premium food and beverage brands. Innovation in this area ensures compliance with sustainability regulations and supports brand reputation. This trend indicates how material science advancements are redefining carton functionality.

Market Growth Drivers

• Growing Focus on Sustainable Packaging and Circular Economy
  Governments and consumers in GCC are emphasizing the reduction of plastic waste and promotion of paper-based alternatives. Multipack cartons align perfectly with these goals due to their recyclability and renewable sourcing. Companies are committing to 100% sustainable packaging pledges, driving large-scale adoption. Recycled fiber usage is also becoming a key selling point for brands. This driver reflects the synergy between environmental policy and market demand.

• Expanding Retail and E-commerce Distribution Networks
  The rise of organized retail and online shopping in GCC is accelerating the need for robust secondary packaging. Multipack cartons provide superior stacking strength and tamper resistance, ideal for transportation and storage. Retail-ready designs improve product visibility and merchandising efficiency. E-commerce packaging optimization has also increased carton adoption for bundled sales. This driver highlights the critical role of multipack packaging in modern supply chains.

• Technological Advancements in Carton Manufacturing
  Continuous improvements in carton die-cutting, folding, and barrier coating technology are enhancing product performance. In GCC, manufacturers are deploying high-speed machinery and energy-efficient processes to optimize throughput. The introduction of automated inspection systems ensures precision and quality control. These innovations reduce material waste and operational downtime. This driver underscores how technology enhances both sustainability and cost competitiveness.

• Rising Consumption of Packaged Beverages and Food Products
  The growing popularity of convenience foods and multipack beverage bundles is boosting carton demand in GCC. Beverage manufacturers prefer multipack cartons for their easy handling, branding potential, and sustainability credentials. Food producers are using cartons for snacks, cereals, and dairy products that require both protection and visual appeal. Rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles further support consumption growth. This driver illustrates how consumer behavior directly influences packaging market expansion.

• Increased Adoption of Premium and Branded Packaging
  As competition intensifies, companies in GCC are using packaging as a brand-building tool. Multipack cartons provide an effective platform for visual storytelling and value perception. Enhanced printing, embossing, and design innovation are being utilized to differentiate products. Premium packaging also drives customer loyalty and repeat purchases. This driver highlights the intersection of branding and structural design in packaging strategy.

Challenges in the Market

• High Cost of Raw Materials and Coatings
  The increasing prices of paperboard, adhesives, and barrier coatings raise production costs. In GCC, fluctuations in pulp supply and energy expenses further exacerbate cost pressures. Smaller packaging firms struggle to maintain profitability under volatile input costs. Manufacturers must balance premium quality with affordability to remain competitive. This challenge highlights the ongoing tension between cost management and product innovation.

• Limited Recycling Infrastructure for Coated Cartons
  Despite their recyclability, multipack cartons with polymer coatings pose challenges for material recovery. In GCC, recycling systems often lack the technology to separate layered components effectively. This creates inconsistencies in recycling rates and environmental performance claims. The development of mono-material or water-based coated solutions remains a top priority. This challenge demonstrates the need for stronger recycling ecosystems to support sustainability goals.

• Stringent Packaging and Food Safety Regulations
  Compliance with evolving safety and labeling standards can increase testing and certification costs. In GCC, different sectors such as food and beverage require specific regulatory adherence for contact materials. Delays in certification can impact time-to-market and supply chain agility. Manufacturers must continuously adapt to meet both domestic and export compliance requirements. This challenge underscores the regulatory complexity influencing the packaging industry.

• Operational Challenges in High-speed Production Lines
  Automated carton production lines demand precise calibration and skilled labor to ensure consistent output. In GCC, technical issues such as misalignment or glue failures can lead to downtime and waste. Continuous investment in training and maintenance is required to sustain efficiency. Limited access to skilled operators remains an obstacle for some regions. This challenge emphasizes the need for workforce development in advanced packaging operations.

• Competition from Alternative Packaging Formats
  Flexible plastic films and shrink wraps continue to compete with multipack cartons on cost and convenience. In GCC, low-cost plastic packaging retains dominance in certain beverage and snack categories. Carton producers must innovate to match cost efficiency while emphasizing environmental benefits. Brand education and consumer awareness are vital to shift preferences toward sustainable options. This challenge reflects the competitive landscape shaping material choice decisions.

GCC Multipack Carton Market Segmentation

By Type

• Folded Cartons

• Wrap-around Cartons

• Sleeve Cartons

• Rigid Boxes

By Material

• Paperboard

• Corrugated Board

• Kraft Paper

• Recycled Fiber

By End-use Industry

• Food & Beverage

• Personal Care & Household Products

• Pharmaceuticals

• E-commerce & Retail

• Others

By Printing Technology

• Flexography

• Lithography

• Digital Printing

• Gravure

Leading Key Players

• WestRock Company

• Mondi Group

• DS Smith Plc

• Smurfit Kappa Group

• International Paper Company

• Stora Enso Oyj

• AR Packaging Group AB

• Graphic Packaging International, LLC

• Sonoco Products Company

• Huhtamaki Oyj

Recent Developments

• WestRock Company launched a lightweight fiber-based multipack carton solution in GCC for beverage can packaging.

• Mondi Group introduced water-based coated cartons in GCC that are fully recyclable and moisture-resistant.

• DS Smith Plc partnered with local retailers in GCC to develop shelf-ready multipack cartons for snack foods.

• Smurfit Kappa Group invested in a digital printing line in GCC for high-quality customized carton production.

• Stora Enso Oyj expanded its sustainable packaging portfolio in GCC with recyclable, renewable fiber-based carton solutions.

This Market Report Will Answer the Following Questions

1. What is the projected size and CAGR of the GCC Multipack Carton Market by 2031?

2. Which sectors are driving the highest adoption of multipack cartons in GCC?

3. How are sustainability and automation influencing carton design and production?

4. What challenges do manufacturers face with costs and recycling infrastructure?

5. Who are the leading players shaping innovation in the multipack carton industry in GCC?