The European tube market was stable in the first half of 2023. The European Tube Manufacturers Association (etma) reported growth in deliveries of just under two per cent to a total volume of around 6.2 billion units. However, there are bottlenecks in the availability of high-quality post-consumer recycling materials.
Growth was driven by deliveries to the pharmaceutical market, which grew by a good five per cent. Demand from the cosmetics and dental care markets also developed positively, with an increase of around two per cent in each case. Deliveries to the food sector stagnated, while demand for Tubes for household and technical products declined significantly by around 20 per cent.
„Overall, we are very satisfied with the result in the first half of the year, as the sales markets that dominate in terms of volume in particular have developed positively.“ Mark Aegler, etma President
As part of their sustainability concepts, customers are increasingly pushing for the Use of recycled material in tubes. However, there are bottlenecks in the availability of high-quality post-consumer recycling materials.
„In the case of plastic tubes, it will certainly not be possible to realise the required quantities through mechanical recycling of used plastic packaging alone. Chemical recycling can be an additional option for closing the gap, especially for complex composite structures. Appropriate political guidelines are required at European level so that the necessary investments in recycling capacities can take place.“
Mark Aegler
The situation on the commodity and energy markets has eased further. However, prices are still above pre-corona and pre-war levels. The situation is also still extremely tense the situation regarding labour costs and the availability of labour. In addition, the weak economy in Europe and continued high inflation are weighing on consumers' purchasing power and mood.
„The political and economic conditions remain difficult. Despite a still high order backlog, some tube manufacturers are now experiencing slight decline in incoming orders. Although there is currently no reason to complain, forecasts for market development in the second half of the year are subject to considerable uncertainty,“ summarises Aegler.
Source: etma
