Market dynamics, valuation trends, and M&A activity shaping the packaging sector in 2025
The packaging sector faced a more complex operating environment in 2025, as softer macroeconomic conditions, rising input costs, and the global tariff crisis weighed on public market valuations. At the same time, private market dynamics told a different story, with transaction multiples remaining resilient and strategic buyers continuing to pay premiums for scale and synergies.
In our 2025 Packaging Sector Year in Review report, Brian Barrett, Managing Director at FOCUS Capital Partners, provides an overview of the key trends shaping the global packaging markets.
The report explores the growing divergence between public valuations and private company transaction valuations, declining global transaction volumes amid greater buyer selectivity, and the continued importance of consolidation as a long-term value driver.
The review also spotlights cross-border M&A activity within the Irish packaging market, where deal volumes declined year-on-year but strategic interest in geographic expansion and operational synergies remained evident.
Download the full report for insights into 2025 market performance, and what it means for packaging companies heading into 2026.
About FOCUS
FOCUS is an international corporate finance advisory firm specialising in M&A, capital raising and tax advisory services. With a team of 100+ professionals in offices across the UK, Ireland and the USA, FOCUS delivers world-class advisory services to middle-market companies with its client-first philosophy, personalised service, deep industry knowledge, and results-driven solutions. FOCUS operates as FOCUS Capital Partners in Europe and FOCUS Investment Banking in the USA.
