Top 10 Representative Packaging Companies in Japan

Japan's packaging industry is diverse and continuously evolving, covering materials such as plastics, paper, metals, and glass. In recent years, the industry has undergone significant changes driven by increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues and sustainability.

Market Size: In 2023, Japan's packaging market reached 170.2 billion units, with an expected annual growth rate of less than 1% until 2028.

Plastic Packaging: Japan's plastic packaging market is expected to reach 5.18 million tons by 2024 and grow to 6.46 million tons by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 4.52%.

Paper Packaging: The paper packaging market is expected to reach $24.3 billion by 2024 and grow to $31.56 billion by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 5.37%.

Fresh Food Packaging: The fresh food packaging market is expected to be valued at $4.939 billion in 2024 and reach $5.987 billion by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 3.92%.

Food and Beverage Industry: The food and beverage sector is the primary driver of Japan's packaging market. With the increasing consumption of fast food and convenience foods, the demand for various types of packaging continues to rise. Japan is one of the largest food retail markets globally, with a retail value of $326.57 billion in 2022.

Environmental Awareness: Growing concerns over plastic waste are pushing consumers toward more environmentally friendly packaging materials, such as glass and aluminum. The Japanese government has also implemented policies to reduce single-use plastic, aiming for a 25% reduction in plastic usage by 2030.

Sustainability: The Japanese packaging industry is actively transitioning towards sustainability. Many companies are developing recyclable and biodegradable materials to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly products. For example, Nestlé Japan aims to achieve 100% recyclable packaging by 2025.

Technological Innovation: The adoption of new technologies, such as heat-stable PET bottles and recycled BOPP films, is driving market growth. Companies like Coca-Cola Japan are enhancing their production capabilities to meet growing demand.

Rise of Flexible Packaging: Flexible packaging is favored for its light weight and convenience. Many manufacturers are exploring innovative materials to improve the sustainability of flexible packaging.

This article highlights 10 representative packaging companies in Japan to provide an understanding of their business, market performance, and the flourishing development potential of Japan's packaging industry.

Overview: Founded in 1917, Toyo Seikan Group is one of Japan's largest packaging companies, focusing on the production of metal, plastic, and paper packaging. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under the stock code 5901. Toyo Seikan provides innovative packaging solutions for industries such as food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals. The company holds around 35% of the market share for metal cans and 30% for PET bottles in Japan.

Brands/Products: Toyo Seikan, Toyo Can

Revenue: ¥1.2 trillion as of FY2023

Overview: Established in 1900, Toppan Printing is a global leader in integrated printing and information solutions. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under stock code 7911. Toppan's business spans printing, information communications, electronic components, lifestyle products, and high-tech materials. The company is committed to environmental protection and the development of sustainable materials.

Brands/Products: Toppan, Toppan Security

Revenue: ¥1.5 trillion as of FY2023

Overview: Founded in 1873, Oji Holdings is one of the world's largest manufacturers of paper products and packaging materials. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under stock code 3321. Oji Holdings produces paper pulp, paper, packaging materials, wood products, and chemical products. It ensures high product quality and stable supply through vertically integrated supply chain management.

Brands/Products: Oji Paper, Oji Packaging

Revenue: ¥1.3 trillion as of FY2023

Overview: Established in 1949, Nippon Paper Industries is a leading manufacturer of paper products and packaging materials in Japan. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under stock code 3863. It produces various types of paper, develops specialty papers, and manufactures packaging materials, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability.

Brands/Products: Nippon Paper, Nippon Paper Crecia

Revenue: ¥800 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Founded in 1949, Japan Pulp and Paper is a global pulp and paper trading company engaged in the import and export of paper, cardboard, pulp, and related products. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under stock code 8032.

Brands/Products: Japan Pulp and Paper

Revenue: ¥50 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Founded in 1975, Superbag Co. specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-performance packaging materials. Their main business includes high-strength plastic bags, composite packaging materials, eco-friendly packaging solutions, and custom packaging products.

Brands/Products: Superbag

Revenue: ¥25 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Established in 1907, Rengo is one of Japan’s largest paper factory groups and a leading global supplier of paper products and packaging materials. The company is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under stock code 5233. Rengo produces various types of paper, packaging materials, eco-friendly paper products, and provides related trade and logistics services.

Brands/Products: Rengo, Kraft Paper Boxes

Revenue: ¥600 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Founded in 1960, Fuji Seal International specializes in sealing technologies and packaging solutions. Its main business includes the development and production of high-performance sealing materials, food packaging seals, industrial seals, and medical device sealing technologies.

Brands/Products: Fuji Seal, Shrink Sleeve Labels

Revenue: ¥100 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Established in 1960, Sealed Air is known for its innovative protective packaging solutions, particularly in food and liquid packaging. Its products include bubble wrap and automated packaging systems, aimed at improving supply chain efficiency and reducing waste.

Brands/Products: Bubble Wrap, Cryovac

Revenue: ¥50 billion as of FY2023

Overview: Founded in 1867, Amcor is a global leader in flexible and rigid packaging manufacturing. The company provides various high-performance packaging solutions for industries such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals in the Japanese market. Amcor is committed to innovation and sustainability, offering high-quality, safe, and eco-friendly packaging options.

Brands/Products: Amcor Flexibles, Amcor Rigid Plastics

Revenue: ¥80 billion as of FY2023