Metal Cans Market Size - By Material, By Product, By Closure Type, By Capacity, By Application - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Metal Cans Market Size

The global metal cans market size was valued at USD 77.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at 5.9% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. The demand for metal cans is growing significantly owing to increasing craft beer sales and expansion of e-commerce.
 

The surge in demand for craft beer is driving the growth of market. In particular, independent breweries are increasingly turning to the use of aluminum cans due to their portability, sustainability, and the ability to maintain freshness. Metal cans are advantageous for craft beer manufacturers as they give unparalleled protection from oxygen and light, thereby saving the flavor and quality.
 

Metal cans are easily recyclable which is helpful to the environment, making them favorable to both the consumers and the producers. For instance, according to Brewers Association report, U.S. retail dollar sales of craft beer have grown by 3%, totaling USD 28.9 billion. The craft beer accounted for 24.7% of United States total beer sales that boost the demand for additional metal packaging.  As the craft beer industry grows even larger, the need for other alternatives, like metal cans, will continue to grow.
 

Metal can manufacturers should focus on producing high-grade, eco-friendly aluminium cans with specific design modifications for the craft beer market. Metal can producers should also experiment with customizable can shapes and brand designs to cater to the increased number of independent breweries who are seeking for unique packaging.
 

The growth of e-commerce has spurred the need for metal cans, especially in the drinks and beverage sector. Consumers can easily buy packaged beverages such as beer, soft drinks, and energy drinks from e-commerce platforms. This has increased the demand for light weight and durable packaging materials.
 

The ease of transport, prolonged shelf life, and superior product protection offered by metal cans make them a common choice for e-commerce distribution. This trend will continue, which will contribute to market growth. Cans made from metal are the best solution as they protect goods, have a long shelf life and are easy to carry, thus the metal cans market will continue to grow through e-commerce.
 

Metal can manufacturers need to create light, robust, and e-commerce-enabled packaging solutions to respond to increasing demand from online consumption of beverages. They need to concentrate on improving can designs for improved robustness during transport without compromising on product integrity and longer shelf life. Manufacturers can collaborate with beverage companies to provide innovative, sustainable packaging solutions that align with increasing consumer demand for convenient and green e-commerce packaging.
 

Metal Cans Market Trends

• The market is observing a notable trend toward sustainable and convenient packaging solutions due to the consumers and manufacturers preference for eco-friendly alternatives. There is an increased demand for novel packaging formats which have a blend of sustainability and convenience, especially in the beverage industry where companies are looking for substitutes for plastic and glass bottles. For example, in February 2024, Sao Geraldo’s partnered with CANPACK Brazil, to introduce its flagship beverage in 350ml aluminum cans, this marks a significant development in the metal packaging industry, especially in the beverage market. Cans are gaining popularity over traditional glass and PET bottles as part of the larger sustainable packaging movement.
   
• Another major trend in the metal cans market is the expansion of premium and customized design packaging. Marketers are increasingly adopting exclusivity and unique designs to capture the attention of consumers through advanced prints and packaging. Technological advancements in digital printing, embossing, and laser-etching technologies are revolutionizing the metal cans industry, allowing brands to produce personalized, high-impact packaging. High-end printing capabilities provide brighter colors, 360-degree designs, and greater branding opportunities, increasing the appeal of metal cans for premium product packaging.
   

Metal Cans Market Analysis

Based on material, the market is bifurcated into aluminum and steel.
 

• The aluminum market is anticipated to reach USD 89.3 billion by 2034. The demand for aluminum cans is increasing because of their lightweight nature, recyclability, and eco-friendliness. Aluminum is used by various beverage sectors and personal care industries since it preserves the product while reducing its carbon footprint. Furthermore, other environmental factors and supportive regulation are pushing the shift towards aluminum packaging over glass and plastic packaging.  
   
• The steel market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% by 2034. Steel cans are still the preferred packaging for food and aerosol products because of their strength and high barrier properties. The innovation in the market for steel cans is driven by the development of corrosion-resistant coatings and higher usage in pressure vessels. The trend in the market for sustainable and reusable packaging are guiding innovations in manufacturing processes for steel cans. 
   

Based on product, the metal cans market is divided into 2-piece cans and 3-piece cans.
 

• The 2-piece cans segment held a market share of 68.6% in 2024. 2-piece cans are becoming increasingly common in the food and beverage industry because they are easy to use and reduce material usage. They are becoming popular choice of packaging for carbonated soft drinks and convenience foods because of the shift in packaging trends towards lightweight, eco-friendly, and more affordable solutions. 
   
• 3-piece cans market is projected to reach USD 37.8 billion by 2034. The use of 3-piece cans is expanding due to improved sealing techniques and use of thinner materials which increases both cost-effectiveness and shelf appeal. These cans are a preferred choice for packaging of food and industrial applications due to their strength and resistance to high-pressure processing.
   

On the basis of closure type, the metal cans market is divided into easy-open end (EOE), peel-off end (POE) and others.
 

• Easy-open end (EOE) dominated the global market accounting for 65% market share in 2024. In metal cans packaging, easy open ends have become common as consumers demand convenience, therefore, EOE technology has been embraced by beverage, food, and personal care brands to improve convenience and enhance user experience. The advancements in can lid designs which improves sealing and enables ease of use are also contributing to this trend.     
   
• The peel-off end market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% by 2034. Tamper-proof and user-friendly peel-off ends are being adopted widely in the food and pharmaceutical industry. The shift towards using POE for pharmaceutical products that require airtight packaging is on the rise. Innovations in the coating of the material to make POE solutions more durable and recyclable is also being observed in the market.
   

Based on capacity, the metal cans market is divided into up to below 250ml, 250ml - 1 liter, and above 1 liter.
 

• The below 250ml market is projected to reach USD 36.4 billion by 2034. Cans below 250 ml are gaining traction owing to the increased demand for single serve and on-the-go products. Many beverage and personal care brands have started using these cans for energy drinks, coffee, and skincare sprays. This is mainly because of the consumer preference for compact, handy packaging which promotes waste reduction and promotes portion control.
   
• The 250ml - 1 liter segment held 53.5% market share in 2024. The adoption of 250ml to 1-liter metal cans is growing rapidly within household products and beverages. This growth is fuelled by bulk packaging, premium branding, as well as sustainability initiatives. The 250ml to 1-liter metal cans are gaining popularity among the beverage brands that sell craft beers, functional drinks, and dairy based beverages.  
   

On the basis of application, the metal cans market is divided into food, beverages, cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceuticals and others.
 

• Beverages dominated the global market accounting for 72.7% market share in 2024. Metal cans, particularly alumnium cans are becoming increasingly popular in the beverage industry because of the recyclability of the material and its ability to preserve beverages for a longer period. Brands are shifting from plastic and glass to cans as part of their sustainability initiatives and the increasing need for environmentally friendly packaging. Custom branding and can designing are also becoming popular.     
   
• The cosmetics and personal care market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% by 2034. There is a noticeable increase in the use of metal cans among brands operating in the cosmetics and personal care sector for aerosol and environmentally friendly packaging. Sustainable beauty brands are switching to aluminum and steel cans in order to meet the circular economy goals. This trend is supported by advancements in can coatings that increases safety and product compatibility.
   

North America held a market share of 25% in 2024. The demand for green and recyclable packaging and growing consumption is redefining the North America metal cans market. The changing consumer preferences for green options are compelling beverage companies to shift from plastic bottles to aluminum cans, as a result of improved efficiency. Government programs combined with business sustainability initiatives enables this change by driving the adoption of metal cans across sectors.   
 

• The U.S. metal cans market is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 26.2 billion by 2034. In the United States, the alcohol industry is still on the boom, which has resulted in a surge in the use of metal cans for the beer and ready to drink cocktail markets. According to Statista, in 2022, the sales of alcoholic beverages in the United States amounted to over USD 259.8 billion, which is higher than the than sales recorded during the pandemic. Such trends are encouraging numerous beverage companies to move towards more contemporary and sustainable packaging types, including lightweight and portable aluminum cans, that can withstand regular handling and enhance the overall quality of stored alcoholic products.
   
• Canada metal cans market is expected to reach a CAGR of 6.6% by 2034. In Canada, the health and wellness trend is affecting the consumption patterns for non-alcoholic and functional beverages. Organic, plant-based, fortified drinks are in high demand, which leads brand owners to switch to environmentally friendly packaging. In Canada, metal cans are increasingly being used as they maintain the quality of the products while conforming to the country’s sustainability and recycling policies.
   

Europe metal cans market held a significant market share of 20.4% in 2024. There is an increase in demand among European consumers for premium and artisanal products and this is molding the market for good quality metal can packaging. Craft beer and various niche drink brands are marketing their products in metal cans as it enhances visibility and preservation.  Additionally, stringent environmental regulations is propelling companies to switch from single-use plastic to recyclable metal.
 

• Germany metal cans market is expected to reach a CAGR of 4.5% by 2034. In Germany, the growth of metal can is supplemented by the deposit return system and high recycling rate. The popularity of circle economy approaches has motivated beverage companies to adopt the use of aluminum cans to ensure ease of recycling and low carbon footprint in their production. Environmentally aware consumers are actively promoting brands that utilize eco-friendly packaging.   
   
• The UK market is expected to reach a CAGR of 4.2% by 2034. The UK market is experiencing an increase in the consumption of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages such as canned cocktails, flavored water, and coffee. Metal cans are being favored due to the convenience and portability they provide, and the trend has further gained strength due to the campaign by the UK government against single-use plastic.
   
• France metal cans market is expected reach a CAGR of 3.9% by 2034. Premium and luxury packaging trend in France is transforming the beauty and personal care industries. The trend of using metal cans, especially aluminum, is increasing in the beauty sector due to its stylish look and recyclability. Premium beauty companies are now offering their products in metal cans because there is a move towards sustainable luxury beauty products.  
   
• Italy metal cans industry accounted for 12.5% of the share in 2024. Italy’s market is witnessing an increasing demand for locally sourced organic food and beverages. Premium olive oils, artisanal beverages, and gourmet food are branded using metal cans because they help maintain product quality and freshness. This shift is being driven by the increased consumer demand for sustainable authentic packaging.    
   
• Spain metal cans market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% by 2034. There is increased demand of energy and sports drinks in Spain which has led to the increased use of metal cans. An enhanced fitness culture and hectic lifestyles are driving the consumption of ready-to-drink beverages. Metal cans are selected for their light weight and durability and for their capability to seal carbonation and flavor in.     
   

Asia Pacific metal cans market is projected to grow at a strong pace at a CAGR of 7.5% by 2034. Rising urbanization and convenience-based lifestyles are fueling the demand for sustainable packaging within the Asia Pacific Region. Metal cans, which are easy to recycle and have long shelf life, are becoming popular as beverage and personal care packaging. Further, growth in e-commerce is compelling companies to use metal packaging to provide superior product protection during transit.
 

• China metal cans market accounted for 35.1% of the market share in 2024. China’s market is adopting premium innovative solutions in the beverage and personal care sectors. The increase in disposable income has made consumers more willing to spend on aesthetic appeal and functional packaging. Metal cans are increasingly favored since they are affordable, safe, and eco-friendly, making the product look premium.         
• The metal cans industry in India is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9% by 2034. The e-commerce market is growing rapidly in India, which in driving the demand for sustainable and protective packaging for beauty and beverage products. As per IBEF, India’s e-commerce market is expected to reach USD 325 billion by 2030. This surge will lead to more beverage and personal care products being packaged in protective and sturdy metal cans. The need for online purchases to be tamper-proof while being light weight is driving demand for metal cans.   
   
• Japan metal cans market held a share of 17.2% in 2024. The demand for metal cans in Japan is rising due to the growing preference for healthier and premium beverages. There has been a noticeable shift toward functional drinks, teas, and non-alcoholic beverages, which has led brands to adopt cans that are more convenient to carry and better preserve the drinks. Furthermore, Japan’s emphasis on quality packaging is motivating companies to switch to prettier, sturdier, and more environmentally friendly metal cans to improve product appeal and sustainability.
   

Latin America held a share of 9.5% of the global metal cans market in 2024. There is a notable increase in the consumption of energy drinks and carbonated beverages among younger people in Latin America. The region’s hot weather and rising income levels are increasing demand for ready to drink cold beverages. Metal cans are increasingly becoming the popular choice since they are able to retain carbonation and keep drinks cold for longer duration.
 

Middle East & Africa market is projected to grow at a strong pace with a CAGR of 6.7% by 2034. The Middle East and Africa is gradually transitioning to eco-friendly packaging because of the laws imposed by the government and the growing environmental awareness. Several food and beverage companies are transitioning from using plastic packaging to aluminum cans to minimize recycling challenges and waste products. This is also complemented by a growing emphasis on imported and premium beverages which always necessitate high-grade packaging.
 

Metal Cans Market Share

The market is highly competitive. The top 5 players in the market are Ardagh Group, Ball Corporation, Can-Pack Group, Crown Holdings, and Silgan Holdings accounting for a significant share of over 38% in the market.
 

To solidify their market position, the top players in the metal cans market are focused on sustainability, innovation, and expansion. To meet consumer preferences for sustainable packaging, many are investing in recyclable materials, designs for lightweight cans, and eco-friendly coatings. Companies are also leveraging strategic alliances with beverage and food brands to help in expanding their market reach, while the latest technologies in can manufacturing are boosting manufacturing efficiency and reducing costs.
 

Businesses are shifting focus on branding along with the differentiation of products via customization. Premium brands are being targeted through the use of innovative printing technologies, embossed designs, and specialty finishes that augment visual appeal. In addition, manufacturers are increasing their production capacity by penetrating into newly emerging markets. Mergers and acquisitions are done extensively to enhance strategic capabilities, shares in the market, and to gain access to advanced technologies.
 

Ardagh Group strategy emphasizes sustainability, technological advancements, and innovation to reinforce its market position. The company invests in the development of light weight and recyclable metal cans, as well as improving efficiency with emerging production technologies. The company also collaborates with large beverage corporations to create eco-friendly packaging solutions that meet specific requirements. 
 

Ball Corporation adopts a strategy focusing on expansion and sustainability by increasing production capacity and developing eco-friendly cans. Aiming to satisfy the growing consumer and regulatory demand for sustainable packaging, the company invests in new facilities, sources aluminum with a low carbon footprint and adopts refillable and infinitely recyclable metal cans.
 

Metal Cans Market Companies

Some of the prominent market participants operating in the metal cans industry include:

• Ardagh Group
• Ball Corporation
• Can-Pack Group
• Crown Holdings
• Silgan Holdings
   

Metal Cans Industry News

• In January 2024, Coca-Cola’s Glaceau smartwater introduced a new line of 12-ounce aluminum cans which significantly impacted the bottled water market. The launch was made as consumer interest in sustainable packaging increased, particularly as the beverage industry heads toward sustainable options.
   
• In January 2023, Ardagh Metal Packaging North America (AMP) expanded its product line with a new 19.2 oz (568ml) aluminum beverage can. This launch is a significant addition to the beverage company's product line. This new single serve can size is the first of its kind to be manufactured in the USA by AMP.
   
• In December 2023, Ball Corporation has partnered with Dabur India Limited to launch Real Bites, a new juice product that comes in fully recyclable aluminum cans. The purpose is to promote sustainability while simultaneously addressing the increasing demand for healthy drinks in India.         
   

The metal cans market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Material

• Aluminum
• Steel  

Market, By Product

• 2-Piece cans
• 3-Piece cans 

Market, By Closure Type  

• Easy-open end (EOE)
• Peel-off end (POE)
• Others

Market, By Capacity

• Below 250ml
• 250ml - 1 liter
• Above 1 liter

Market, By Application

• Food  
  • Fruits & vegetables
  • Convenience foods
  • Pet foods
  • Meat & seafood
  • Others
• Beverages    
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Carbonated soft drinks
  • Sports & energy drinks
  • Others
• Cosmetics and personal care        
• Pharmaceuticals      
• Others

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

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada 
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands 
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE