Despite declining sales, the Swiss packaging industry recorded an increase in production volumes in 2024. This is according to the latest annual report from the Swiss Paper, Board and Film Manufacturers' Association (SPKF). The Model Group and Swiss Quality Paper in particular show how investments and a focus on product ranges can contribute to growth.
The Swiss packaging industry can look back on a challenging year: energy prices, declining demand in Europe and global uncertainties had a significant impact on business. Nevertheless, the industry was able to increase its production volume. According to the SPKF Annual Report 2024, member companies produced a total of 966,074 tonnes of paper and cardboard - nine per cent more than in the previous year. However, turnover fell by five per cent to CHF 834.5 million.
The Model Group grew particularly strongly. Despite a six per cent drop in sales to CHF 862 million, it was able to increase its sales volume of corrugated cardboard packaging by seven per cent. A total of 1.37 billion square metres of packaging were produced - an increase of four per cent compared to 2023. The company invested CHF 158 million, including in the new paper mill in Eilenburg and modern printing technologies in Weinfelden.
Swiss Quality Paper was also able to significantly increase sales in the packaging sector - by 55 per cent compared to the previous year. With 21,890 tonnes produced, the company is a positive example of targeted market positioning, according to the Zurich-based company.
In the recycling sector Another stable foundation for the packaging industryThe use of waste paper in Swiss factories increased by 10.16 per cent in 2024, with a recycling rate of 68.85 per cent. According to the SPKF, the use of packaging paper reached 323,580 tonnes, an increase of 6.75% compared to the previous year.
Nevertheless, the industry remains under pressure. According to the SPKF and IGEB, energy and environmental costs as well as unequal competitive conditions in international comparison are causing growing locational disadvantages. In order to avoid production relocations, the association is calling for compensatory measures, for example with regard to network costs and border adjustment systems.
Source: SPKF (Swiss Paper, Board and Film Manufacturers Association)
