Tray Former Machines Market Summary

The global tray former machines market size was estimated at USD 1,905.9 million in 2024, and it is projected to reach USD 2,822.3 million by 2033, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2025 to 2033. The increasing global demand for packaged food and beverages is a major factor propelling the growth of the tray former machines industry.

As consumer lifestyles evolve and the preference for convenience and ready-to-eat food products continues to rise, manufacturers are investing in advanced, high-speed packaging solutions to meet this growing need. This trend is particularly visible in urbanized regions, where busy lifestyles demand greater convenience in meal consumption. Additionally, beyond the food and beverage sector, the increasing emphasis on automation and enhanced operational efficiency across industries has significantly contributed to the widespread adoption of tray former machines.

Companies are embracing automated packaging systems to increase output, ensure consistent tray construction quality, and minimize human error. Tray former machines offer precise and dependable operation, and they can be effortlessly incorporated into existing production lines. This compatibility aligns with the principles of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives, and the ongoing demand for automation is anticipated to remain a primary growth driver for the tray former machines industry worldwide.

Key Market Trends & Insights

  • In 2024, the fully automatic segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 57.20%. This dominance is attributed to its high levels of efficiency, operational speed, and reduced dependence on manual labor. Fully automatic machines are especially suited for large-scale production environments where maintaining consistent throughput and precision is critical to operational success.
  • The food and beverage sector led the market with the largest revenue share of 63.54% in 2024. This was largely due to the soaring demand for packaged and ready-to-eat food items. These products require sanitary, efficient, and dependable packaging methods to ensure product integrity and shelf life, making tray forming machines indispensable in this sector.
  • Corrugated trays held the largest market share of 56.9% in 2024. Their popularity stems from their high strength, durability, and cushioning capabilities, which make them particularly suitable for the safe transportation of heavy and fragile items across various sectors.
  • Regionally, the tray former machines market in North America secured a substantial market share in 2024. This is largely due to its well-established manufacturing infrastructure and robust demand from the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries, which have long relied on advanced packaging technologies.
  • The United States is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2033. This growth trajectory is driven by the country’s advanced production capabilities, significant demand from key industrial sectors, and continuous investment in packaging automation.
  • In Europe, the tray former machines market also holds a strong share, bolstered by stringent environmental policies and a notable push toward sustainable packaging solutions. A mature packaging industry and an accelerated move toward automation further strengthen the region’s market positioning.
  • Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant region in 2024, accounting for the largest revenue share of 36.9%. The region's growth is underpinned by rapid industrialization, urban expansion, and increasing disposable income levels, particularly in populous nations such as China and India. The booming food processing and pharmaceutical sectors in these countries are driving substantial demand for efficient and modern packaging equipment.
  • In the Middle East and Africa, market trends are being shaped by rising consumption of packaged foods and pharmaceuticals, driven by population growth and urbanization. The region is also experiencing a boost in industrial development and government-backed diversification initiatives, encouraging the uptake of advanced packaging machinery.
  • Latin America is poised for notable growth over the forecast period, with a promising CAGR. This expansion is driven by rising investments in the food and beverage manufacturing sectors and the steady growth of the pharmaceutical industry across the region.

Order a free sample PDF of the Tray Former Machines Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Market Size & Forecast

  • 2024 Market Size: USD 1,905.9 Million
  • 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 2,822.3 Million
  • CAGR (2025-2033): 4.7%
  • Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024
  • Latin America: Fastest growing region

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Prominent players operating within the global tray former machines market include Wayne Automation, Wexxar Packaging, Inc., and AFA Systems Inc.

  • Wayne Automation stands out as a leading manufacturer in the packaging machinery domain, known for its specialization in the design and production of high-performance case and tray forming equipment. It serves a diverse client base spanning food, beverage, and consumer goods industries, with a strong focus on automation and system reliability. With decades of expertise, Wayne Automation is recognized for delivering tailored packaging solutions and maintains long-term relationships with major clients throughout North America.
  • Wexxar Packaging, Inc., a ProMach division, is renowned for its solutions in case and tray forming, sealing, and packaging, primarily catering to the food, beverage, and healthcare industries. The company is well-regarded for its dependable and adaptable machinery, capable of supporting both fully automatic and semi-automatic operations. With a solid presence across North America and extended global outreach through ProMach’s extensive network, Wexxar emphasizes equipment durability, ease of maintenance, and integration capabilities suited to both high-volume and small-scale production environments.

Key Players

  • Wayne Automation
  • Wexxar Packaging, Inc.
  • AFA Systems Inc.
  • ADCO Manufacturing.
  • Combi Packaging Systems, LLC
  • Paxiom
  • Crown Packaging Corp.
  • Sacmi
  • DS Smith
  • Gietz 
  • Econcorp
  • Boix Maquinaria, S.L.
  • Mibox
  • Heiber + Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH
  • W. H. Leary

Explore Horizon Databook – The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research.

Conclusion

The global tray former machines market is on a steady growth path, supported by robust demand from the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Increasing automation, coupled with the rising need for hygienic and efficient packaging, continues to drive adoption. Fully automatic tray formers and corrugated trays dominate due to their operational advantages. Regional growth is led by Asia Pacific, while North America and Europe maintain strong market positions. With advancements in manufacturing technologies and a shift toward smart factories, the market outlook remains positive. Continued innovation and investment by key players will further shape the market landscape in the coming years.