2025 Packaging Ink Market Dynamics: Consolidation, Sustainability & What’s Next with ArrowJet Technology

The packaging ink market is not what it used to be.
In 2025, inks are no longer just about color on paper or film. They are about compliance, sustainability, performance, and branding power.

At Arrow Systems, Inc., we see this transformation every day. With our ArrowJet water-based pigment inkjet printers, we’re helping brands and converters stay ahead—printing smarter, greener, and more cost-effectively.

So, what’s driving all this change? Let’s dive into the market dynamics shaping 2025 and explore how ArrowJet technology is right in the middle of it all.

Market Overview: A Growing Billion-Dollar Industry

Here’s the big picture.
The global packaging inks Market in 2025 is valued somewhere between USD 5.28 billion and USD 9.44 billion. Projections suggest steady growth, with annual rates of 3.7% to 8.1% over the next decade.

What’s fueling this?

The sheer demand for packaged food, drinks, and pharma products.
A shift to flexible packaging formats like stand-up pouches and paper-based wraps.
E-commerce packaging that needs durability and shelf appeal.
And of course—sustainability mandates that brands can’t afford to ignore.

Flexible packaging is at the forefront. By 2025, flexographic inks alone are hitting USD 13.3 billion, driven by demand for wrappers, pouches, and lightweight solutions.

Now, here’s where ArrowJet steps in. With 1600 dpi resolution, high-speed throughput, and water-based pigment inks, we’re providing the perfect bridge between growth opportunities and sustainability demands.

Consolidation: Bigger Players, Bigger Moves

The packaging ink industry is consolidating. Major names like Sun Chemical, DIC, Flint Group, and Siegwerk are expanding their reach, investing in R&D, and acquiring smaller players.

Why?
Because the future belongs to companies that can deliver innovation at scale—especially in eco-friendly inks.

But here’s the challenge: consolidation often leaves smaller converters dependent on a handful of large suppliers.

That’s where ArrowJet makes the difference. Instead of relying on giants, converters can adopt ArrowJet printers to take control of production. With options like the ArrowJet Nova 250R for short runs or the ArrowJet Bolt at 150 m/min for flexible packaging, brands can stay competitive, compliant, and agile.

Sustainability: The Non-Negotiable

Let’s be honest—sustainability isn’t optional anymore.

Consumers are asking for greener packaging. Regulators are tightening the rules. And brands are making big promises about carbon neutrality.

So what does that mean for inks?
It means a major shift away from solvent-based formulations toward water-based, UV-curable, and bio-based inks.

Why Water-Based Pigment Inks Lead the Way:

No VOCs → safer for workers and the planet.
Food-safe → low migration, compliant with EU and FDA standards.
Recyclable-friendly → works with paper pouches and compostable films.
Bright and durable → rich pigments that last.

This is exactly why ArrowJet printers run on water-based pigment inks. They’re Swiss-compliant, safe for food packaging, and compatible with both paper-based and flexible substrates.

It’s not just about meeting regulations. It’s about giving brands the confidence to promise their customers packaging that’s both beautiful and responsible.

Regulatory & Supply Chain Challenges

Regulations are reshaping the game.

The EU Green Deal is tightening VOC and chemical standards.
The FDA and EU authorities are stricter than ever on food-safe inks.
And in 2025, tariffs on specialty raw materials added new cost pressures for ink producers.

For converters, this creates a headache. Testing, compliance, certifications, sourcing—it all adds up.

ArrowJet offers a way through. With water-based pigment inks, converters don’t have to worry about solvents or restricted chemicals. On-demand digital printing reduces waste and inventory costs. And ArrowJet’s fast setup means jobs can move from design to print in minutes—not days.

In short, we help brands stay compliant while keeping costs under control.

Technology: More Than Just Color

The ink industry is getting smarter.

Digital printing is now mainstream, driven by short runs, customization, and seasonal packaging. Brands want QR codes, anti-counterfeit measures, and personalization, all powered by digital workflows.

At the same time, nanotechnology and advanced pigments are making inks more durable, more vibrant, and more versatile.

This is where ArrowJet shines.

Print at 1600 dpi for unmatched shelf appeal.
Run variable data jobs for personalized labels.
Switch between flexible packaging, labels and paper pouches with ease.
Cut downtime with fast job setup and minimal manual intervention.

Market Drivers in 2025

So, what’s pushing the packaging ink market forward this year?

More packaged goods consumption as urban lifestyles expand.
E-commerce growth demanding stronger, more appealing packaging.
Green packaging mandates from governments and retailers.
Digitalization of print workflows for faster turnaround.
Asia Pacific expansion, while Europe and North America push compliance.

And the trends?
Paper-based pouches, low-VOC inks, hybrid print systems, and smarter packaging.

ArrowJet is designed for all of this. Whether it’s running low MOQs, cutting costs, or helping brands experiment with seasonal designs, our printers make it possible—without compromising compliance or quality.

Why Brands Are Choosing ArrowJet

Let’s make it simple.

Traditional UV inks? Durable, yes. But they raise concerns about food safety, recyclability, and regulations.

ArrowJet water-based pigment inks?

Swiss-compliant and food-safe
VOC-free and eco-friendly
Brilliant, long-lasting colors
Compatible with paper and film
Fast, flexible, and cost-effective

This is why brands in food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals are making the switch. They want compliance, but they also want vibrant packaging that stands out. With ArrowJet, they don’t have to choose—they get both.

What’s Next: The Road to 2030

Looking ahead, one thing is clear: the packaging ink market is going greener, smarter, and faster.

Green chemistry will dominate product development.
Digital printing will keep growing for customization and agility.
Supply chains will localize to avoid raw material risks.
Brands will demand sustainable solutions without sacrificing performance.

And Arrow Systems, Inc. is ready. With our ArrowJet portfolio—from the Bolt to the Aqua 330R II—we deliver speed, quality, and sustainability in one package.

For converters, this means lower costs, less waste, and total compliance. For brands, it means packaging that’s not only eye-catching but future-ready.

Quick Recap: ArrowJet in the 2025 Ink Market

Market Trend	2025 Reality	ArrowJet Advantage
Market Size	USD 5.28–9.44B, steady CAGR	Scalable portfolio for every business size
Consolidation	Global majors dominate	Independent, agile partner with flexible solutions
Sustainability	Shift to water-based, bio-inks	VOC-free, food-safe, recyclable-friendly inks
Regulation	EU Green Deal, FDA compliance, tariffs	Swiss-compliant inks, no solvent reliance, local support
Technology	Digital printing, smart labels, nanotech	1600 dpi, variable data, high-speed, flexible media compatibility
Key Drivers	Packaged goods, e-commerce, sustainability, digitalization	On-demand, low MOQ, reduced costs, faster turnaround

Final Thoughts

The packaging ink industry in 2025 is not just evolving—it’s transforming.

Brands and converters are being asked to do more: comply with tougher rules, meet consumer sustainability expectations, and still produce packaging that sells on crowded shelves.

The good news? ArrowJet technology makes it possible.

With water-based pigment inks, high-resolution printing, and cost-saving digital workflows, ArrowJet is helping businesses print smarter, greener, and faster.

And as we look to 2030, one truth stands out: the winners will be those who embrace sustainability without compromising quality. With ArrowJet, you don’t have to choose—you can have it all.