Interactive QR Packaging Market Size - By Packaging Type, QR Code Functionality, Material Type, Technology in QR Codes, End Use Industry Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Report ID: GMI13430
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Published Date: April 2025
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Report Format: PDF

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Interactive QR Packaging Market Size

The global interactive QR packaging market was valued at USD 5.2 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% to reach USD 9.8 billion by 2034.
 

Interactive QR Packaging

Rising consumer needs for intelligent packaging solutions are propelling substantial growth in the Interactive QR Packaging market. This goes hand in hand with the consumer need for increased transparency, responsiveness, and product engagement. QR codes easily enable the consumer's demand for detailed information regarding the product’s origin, its components, and the sustainability efforts which accompany it. Moreover, the use of QR capable packages is driven by the need for the consumption of digital content and interactive experiences such as augmented reality.
 

With the help of this technology, brands can build direct digital connections with customers, which enhances brand loyalty and products experience. As consumers become more sophisticated technologically, environmentally conscious, and smart, the market will increase the importance of QR codes which will, in turn, increase the necessity for informative, engaging, multi-functional, and eco-friendly packaging.   
 

The rapid growth of e-commerce, as well as the greater use of contactless payments, are driving the interactive QR packaging market growth. E-commerce sellers need effective product verification and detailed communication which QR codes facilitate by instantly providing information about the product, its origin, and instructions to use it. Transactional interaction, which has been driven by health and safety concerns, has made the application of QR codes for payments and information retrieval very common.
 

This familiarity extends to packaging, where there is an expectation for frictionless digital engagement. Besides improving the online shopping experience, brands can provide post-purchase support, collect consumer insights, and personalize marketing campaigns through package integrated QR codes. According to the International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, the worldwide business to business B2B E-commerce market will reach USD 36 trillion by the year 2026. The Asia Pacific region is forecasted to account for 80% of the share. Business to consumer B2C eCommerce is estimated to grow to USD 5.5 trillion with India witnessing exponential growth by the year 2027.
 

Interactive QR Packaging Market Trends

  • The implementation of Interactive QR Packaging has notably increased because of personalized consumer dynamic QR codes. Undoubtedly, there is a major move towards the application of these codes for product authentication and supply chain transparency, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food and beverage sectors. Instead of static QR codes, brands now utilize dynamic ones because they can change the set information, track the product, and personalize marketing campaigns for the customers. This is further enhanced by the increasing adoption of green packaging whereby eco-friendly and recycling aids information QR codes help in communicating the desired eco messages.
     
  • Various sectors are aggressively adopting the interactive packaging which is helping drive robust growth across the markets. The shift towards direct-to-consumer (DTC) approaches by most brands who want non mediated digital interaction with customers further propels this growth. Investments are increasing for both enterprise-grade platforms that facilitate automated QR code provisioned integration and managed services for data-driven analytics. In addition, embedding QR codes to enable augmented reality (AR) brand experiences is growing as it motivates deeper interactions with products and brands. Collaboration between corporations providing packaging and other technology contractors who provide specialized services integrated with QR codes is another emerging trend in the market.
     

Interactive QR Packaging Market Analysis

Interactive QR Packaging Market , By Packaging Type, 2021-2034, (USD Billion)

Based on the packaging type, the market is segmented into primary packaging, secondary packaging, and tertiary packaging.
 

  • Primary packaging segment accounted for USD 2.1 billion in 2023. Primary packaging integrates QR codes for mobile authentication, augmented reality, and ingredient information while encasing products directly. Sectors such as food, medicine, and cosmetology use it to improve transparency, adherence to statute, and consumer involvement.
     
  • Secondary packaging segment accounted for USD 1.6 billion in 2022. Secondary packaging covers the use of shrink wraps and cartons which use QR codes for tracking inventories, conducting promotional activities, and ensuring transparency in the supply chain. Retail and e-commerce use it for personalization as well as public relations and consumer engagement activities.

 

Interactive QR Packaging Market Share, By QR Code Functionality, 2024

Based on QR code functionality, the interactive QR packaging market is divided into authentication & anti-counterfeiting, product information & transparency, consumer engagement & gamification, loyalty programs & discounts, track & trace solutions, and smart packaging with AR/VR integration.
 

  • The authentication & anti-counterfeiting segment is expected to account for 24.6% of the global market in 2024. Through scanning QR codes, products can be authenticated which helps alleviate the counterfeiting problem in the pharmaceutical and luxury industries. In addition, real-time verification through QR codes increases trust brands, adheres to regulations, and ensures safety in the supply chain, which is achieved through tamper-proof packaging.
     
  • The product information & transparency segment is expected to account for 25.6% of the global market in 2034. Consumers are able to scan QR codes and obtain product information such as the ingredients, certificates, and sustainability information, which leads to informed purchasing choices. This increases trust in the brand as well as meeting the necessary legal and consumer transparency standards.
     

Based on material type, the interactive QR packaging market is segmented into paper & paperboard, plastics, glass, and metal.
 

  • The paper & paperboard segment dominated the market accounting for USD 1.5 billion in 2024.  Paper based QR packing provides significant sustainability and is highly recyclable, making it ideal for ecofriendly brands. It increases product transparency, further assists biodegradable solutions, and meets tough environmental compliance standards while being cost effective.
     
  • The plastics segment accounted for USD 1.6 billion in 2023. Plastic-derived QR Codes enables flexibility, affordability, and longevity across several industries. It allows for the printing of interactive engaging QRs, while still tending to sustainability issues using biodegradable, recycled, and reusable plastics.
     

Based on technology in QR codes, the interactive QR packaging market is segmented into static QR codes, dynamic QR codes, and blockchain-based QR codes.
 

  • The static QR codes segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period. Static QR codes are a price efficient method for encoding websites and product information. Currently, they are superbly common in marketing, authentication and consumer interactions, but are not capable of being updated in real time.
     
  • The dynamic QR codes segment will grow at a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period. The improvement includes the integration of personalized interactions, advanced analytic capabilities, and updated content features from anywhere across the globe as facilitated through the use of dynamic QR codes. Additionally, they allow modifications to be made to marketing campaigns, product transparency, and loyalty programs. All these changes can be effected without changing the printed code.
     

Based on end-use industry, the interactive QR packaging market is segmented into industrial, automotive, food & beverages, healthcare, electronics, and others.
 

  • The food & beverages segment dominated the market, accounting for USD 1.3 billion in 2024. The integration of Interactive QR codes in the food and beverage packaging automates transparency, traceability, and increases consumer participation. It contributes to branding through providing nutrition, origin, advertisement, brand protection, and even regulatory compliance along with anti-counterfeit safeguards.
     
  • In 2024, the healthcare segment accounted for USD 925.8 million. The healthcare industry employs interactive QR packaging for medicine verification, dosage guidance, and patient teaching. It aids in safeguarding the supply chain, fighting counterfeiting and meeting fierce security and safety regulations.

 

U.S. Interactive QR Packaging Market Size, 2021-2034 (USD Million)
  • In 2024, the U.S. interactive QR packaging market accounted for USD 1.1 billion. The modernized U.S. market is sustained by high-level technology integration usage, consumer participation, and high-level anti-counterfeiting practices. The rising e-commerce coupled with legal compliance is the reason for adoption in food, healthcare, and retail industries.
     
  • The Germany interactive QR packaging market is expected to reach USD 248 million by 2034. Germany's market is propelled by sustainability, Industry 4.0 initiatives, and severe labeling policies. The use of interactive QR packaging improves traceability, authentication, and supply chain management in medicine, automotive, and high-end products.
     
  • The China interactive QR packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% during the forecast period. China has one of the major automotive manufacturers bases that is supporting the market expansion. According to the International Trade Administration (ITA), China is the largest automobile market in the world in terms of both yearly sales and manufacturing output. By 2025, it is anticipated that domestic production will account for around 35 million vehicles. Moreover, the presence of large electronics manufacturing ecosystem, as well as shift towards smart home technologies, is also contributing to the demand for interactive QR packaging.
     
  • Japan is expected to account for a share of 12.3% of the interactive QR packaging market in Asia Pacific. Japan is poised to take maximum advantage of technological developments, consumer faith in QR systems, and their inclination towards highly interactive products. Japan has robust adoption in food safety, cosmetics, and electronics, fuelled by strict regulations.
     
  • South Korea interactive QR packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period. The market of South Korea grows because of its digital innovations, strong e-commerce activities, and competent users. Consumers in the cosmetics, electronics, and retail industries have their brand engagement, product authenticity recognition, and marketing strategies enhanced through QR-enabled packaging.
     

Interactive QR Packaging Market Share

The market is competitive and highly fragmented with the presence of established global players as well as local players and startups. The top 3 companies in the global interactive QR packaging industry are Tetra Pak, Berry Global Inc., and Amcor plc, collectively accounting for a share of 19.3%. The competition in the interactive QR packaging industry is very fierce and it is stimulated by technological advancement, regulatory compliance, and consumer interaction strategies.
 

The major participants are adopting advanced features of QR codes, like adding dynamic codes, blockchain technology, and integration of modern technologies such as augmented reality. Market frontrunners channel funding into R & D activities in order to improve security, personalization, and real-time tracking features for clients belonging to the food and beverage, healthcare, and electronics industries.
 

The competitive landscape is formed by strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions which allow for the expansion in market scope and technology. Domestic companies focus on lower cost services and regional marketing, while international companies focus on their wide distribution networks. Established brands and new start-ups face increasing competition due to rapid technological innovation aimed at meeting rising needs for authentication, anti-counterfeiting, and sustainable packaging solutions.
 

Tetra Pak is leveraging interactive QR packaging to enhance consumer engagement and sustainability education, aligning with the growing trend of gamification in marketing. For instance, in July 2024, Tetra Pak launched interactive QR-enabled gaming on its packaging in Europe, developed with Appetite Creative, to enhance consumer education on sustainability. Available in Spain, Portugal, Germany, and Austria, the games boost engagement and brand loyalty. Tetra Pak claims connected packaging increases sales by 20%, with higher scan rates than digital ads, strengthening consumer interaction and sustainability awareness.
 

Smart, QR-enabled packaging is the future smart packaging integrates Berry Global, enables consumer engagement and traceability. The use of sustainable materials and sophisticated printing allows the firm to align interactive packaging with compliance and circular economy goals.
 

Amcor uses QR codes for authentication, brand engagement, and transparency as a form of digitalized packaging. Some of the other issues covered under its strategic focus are custom interactive experiences, improved sustainability, and smart supply chain solutions for omni-channel consumer fulfillment.
 

Interactive QR Packaging Market Companies

The top 3 companies operating in the interactive QR packaging industry are:

  • Tetra Pak
  • Berry Global Inc.
  • Amcor plc
     

Interactive QR Packaging Industry News

  • In February 2025, Polytag launches QR Squared, a GS1-powered digital service enabling brands to upgrade barcodes to interactive QR codes for seamless consumer engagement and supply chain optimization. The platform tracks real-time consumer interactions, supports Digital Product Passports, and enhances on-pack marketing. With easy-to-update landing pages, it ensures dynamic brand communication while future-proofing packaging compliance.
     
  • In February 2025, Kezzler acquired Scanbuy’s Smart Packaging and QR Code engagement business, enhancing interactive QR packaging and product traceability solutions. The deal expands Kezzler’s global presence, offering advanced transparency, compliance, and consumer engagement for brands like PepsiCo and Mondelez. Scanbuy’s SmartLabels, used on 100,000+ product lines, now integrate with Kezzler’s traceability platform for scalable digital experiences.
     
  • In February 2025, Polytag announced the launch of QR Squared, a platform transforming barcodes into interactive QR packaging for brands. Powered by GS1 standards, it enables real-time updates, analytics, and batch-level management. Brands can enhance consumer engagement, track interactions, and optimize marketing as Digital Product Passports gain momentum.
     
  • In November 2023, Lipton launched QR code-enabled packaging in partnership with Appetite Creative, transforming consumer engagement through interactive digital content. Smart packaging provides personalized experiences, gamified promotions, and sustainability education, while also collecting real-time consumer insights. This initiative reinforces packaging as a direct communication channel, modernizing brand interaction and promoting eco-conscious consumer behavior across global markets.
     

This interactive QR packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) & (Unit) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

Market, By Packaging Type

  • Primary packaging
    • Bottles
    • Cans
    • Cartons
    • Pouches
    • Sachets 
  • Secondary packaging
    • Boxes
    • Trays
    • Wraps
  • Tertiary packaging
    • Palletized packaging
    • Corrugated bulk containers

Market, By QR Code Functionality

  • Authentication & anti-counterfeiting
  • Product information & transparency
  • Consumer engagement & gamification
  • Loyalty programs & discounts
  • Track & trace solutions
  • Smart packaging with AR/VR integration

Market, By Material Type

  • Paper & paperboard
  • Plastics
  • Glass
  • Metal

Market, By Technology in QR Codes

  • Static QR codes
  • Dynamic QR codes 
  • Blockchain-based QR codes

Market, By End Use Industry

  • Industrial
  • Automotive 
  • Food & beverages
  • Healthcare
  • Electronics
  • Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • UK
    • Germany
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Russia
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • South Korea
    • ANZ 
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico 
  • MEA
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • South Africa

 

Authors: Suraj Gujar, Saptadeep Das
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) :
What is the size of paper & paperboard segment in the interactive QR packaging industry?
The paper & paperboard segment generated over USD 1.5 billion in 2024.
How big is the interactive QR packaging market?
How much is the U.S. interactive QR packaging market worth in 2024?
Who are the key players in interactive QR packaging industry?
Interactive QR Packaging Market Scope
  • Interactive QR Packaging Market Size
  • Interactive QR Packaging Market Trends
  • Interactive QR Packaging Market Analysis
  • Interactive QR Packaging Market Share
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    Base Year: 2024

    Companies covered: 18

    Tables & Figures: 770

    Countries covered: 18

    Pages: 190

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