Packaging Distribution M&A Market Poised for Growth in 2026
Packaging distributors are emerging as one of the most strategically advantaged segments in the packaging value chain, according to a industry report released by the Packaging investment banking team at Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL).
While converters and manufacturers have historically commanded more attention, distributors are increasingly positioned to capture share — leveraging their proximity to end customers, broad supplier networks, and ability to respond rapidly to changing market demands. Their model — blending sourcing and fulfillment with inventory management, customization, and just-in-time delivery — enables them to align seamlessly with many of the industry’s most powerful trends, among them supply chain resilience, e-commerce, sustainability, design, customization, and value-added services, making them indispensable partners for brands and manufacturers navigating cost pressures, operational uncertainty, and sustainability mandates.
Packaging Distribution Market Snapshot
The North American Packaging market is forecasted to be ~228 billion in 2025. Currently over $52 billion is sold through distribution channels or 23% of the market. Distribution is projected to grow at 4.9% compared to the broader packaging market at 3.5%.
Two segments of the Packaging Distribution Market
Primary packaging: Distributors specializing in rigid containers, closures, and dispensing systems that directly contact or protect the product. Typically serve brand-driven or regulated markets (e.g., food & beverage, personal care, healthcare, chemicals) with high customization, compliance, and branding requirements.
Full-line packaging: Broad-based distributors providing corrugated, flexible, and protective packaging, along with automation, equipment, and consumables with a focus on cost efficiency, supply chain integration, and standardization. Market bifurcates into industrial-focused and foodservice/Jan-San sub-channels.
Distributors are ideally aligned with packaging sector growth trends, with the channel expected to outpace growth of the overall market. The distribution M&A market is very active, and private equity platforms are aggressively consolidating the sector.
Contact Our Packaging Group
BGL’s Packaging investment banking team brings decades of transaction experience and deep industry expertise across a wide range of substrates, formats, end markets, and business models. We offer a nuanced understanding of the trends driving sector growth and the key differentiators that set leading businesses apart. Our approach blends sector-specific insight with extensive global relationships and world-class transaction execution to guide clients through packaging M&A, divestitures, and capital raises.