Europe MDO-PE Film Industry Outlook from 2024 to 2034

Sales of MDO-PE films in Europe are estimated to be valued at USD 225.8 million in 2024 and further soar at 2.4% CAGR during the assessment period. By 2034, the MDO-PE film industry size in Europe is projected to reach USD 285.2 million.

Revenue generated by MDO PE films across Europe in 2023 was USD 221 million and is anticipated to exhibit Y-o-Y growth of 2.2% in 2024. For the next ten years, the MDO PE film industry outlook in the European Union looks bright, growing around 1.3X through 2034.

MDO-PE film’s ability to withstand temperature changes, adhere to surfaces, and resistance towards moisture is leading to its increased usage. Among packaging formats, tapes and labels segment leads the industry, holding a share of 23% in 2024, and is set to advance at a rate of 1.4% over the forecast period.

Blown film category holds around 3/5th of the Europe MDO-PE film industry share and is expected to total USD 195.4 million in 2034. Food sector is anticipated to remain a prominent consumer of machine direction orientation polyethylene films, accounting for s share of around 36% in 2034.

MDO PE films are used at a large scale for industrial packaging, consumer packaging, and medical products packaging. This is providing a strong impetus for sales growth.

Growing need for efficient food packaging solutions and growing demand for extended shelf-life products are key growth drivers for MDO PE films. Subsequently, escalating interest in sustainable packaging will propel demand for MDO PE films in Europe.

Machine direction orientation polyethylene films (MDO PE) are gaining immense traction owing to multiple advantages over traditional PE films. For instance, MDO PE films offer improved strength, better optical clarity, and excellent barrier properties.

Many packaging giants across Europe are shifting towards developing laminating films in full PE with MDO technology. Surging demand for flexible packaging solutions from industries like food and beverages, consumer electronics, and healthcare is set to boost sales growth.

Rise in MDO PE film exports from Europe is anticipated to play a key role in improving European MDO PE Film industry size and share. Leading producers of MDO PE films in Europe will also likely benefit from rapid industrial growth.

Attributes Description
Estimated Europe MDO-PE Film Industry Size (2024E) USD 225.8 million
Projected Europe MDO-PE Film Industry Value (2034F) USD 285.2 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 2.4%

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Key Industry Highlights

Increasing Safety Measures in Medical Sector Propelling MDO-PE Film Demand

The utilization of MDO-PE films in the medical sector is one of the emerging growth-shaping trends in Europe. These films are gaining importance in the production of protective clothing in the medical and healthcare sectors.

Characteristics of MDO PE films contribute to the high-end quality and increased durability and protection in the manufacturing of protective clothing. MDO-PE film-made clothing not only adheres to industry standards but also provides genuine and long-lasting protection against foreign matter during various medical treatments.

Incorporating MDO PE films in meeting the safety measures in the medical sector is set to boost growth of MDO-PE film industry in Europe. Similarly, growing usage of MDO-LLDPE films in medical device packaging will likely boost sales growth.

MDO-PE film’s distinct mechanical properties make the product a most suitable material for a variety of purposes in the medical sector. The recycling rate of other materials like (biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPET) and biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) films is very low as compared to MDO PE films.

Compatibility with Diverse Range of Products Facilitates Growth

MDO-PE films have a great ability to be adapted according to the type of available machine. This unique ability leads to less updating expenses in machinery and complete integration, thus becoming a first-choice material for manufacturers engaged in packaging solutions.

The flexibility of MDO PE films can be used for different types of packaging formats, which include pouches, bags, sacks, tubes, sachets, wraps, and many more. By using MDO-PE as a primary material, manufacturers can offer solutions as per the changing demands of the end users without investing in high costs and delays in delivery.

Several end-use industries are employing MDO-PE films as the ideal packaging option due to high adaptability and customization features. This will likely play a key role in creating growth prospects for MDO PE film companies in Europe.

Industries like food and beverage, healthcare, home care, personal care, and medicine require packaging solutions with varied sizes, shapes, and types. MDO PE films satisfy the needs of end users without requiring any additional investment in developmental costs.

Availability of Substitutes Limiting Growth

The availability of substitute films such as bio-based films, PLA films, and other highly recyclable films is expected to negatively impact sales growth. Implementation of regulations by authorities has increased the adoption of alternative materials that are eco-friendly and sustainable.

As consumers and businesses are moving towards alternative materials such as paper, this change will directly impact the sales of MDO-PE films. To address this, leading MDO PE film companies in Europe will look to create more sustainable and cost-effective products.

2019 to 2023 Europe MDO-PE Film Sales Analysis Compared to Demand Forecast for 2024 to 2034

The machine-direction orientation (MDO) polyethylene film industry in Europe recorded a CAGR of 1% during the historical period, with total revenue reaching USD 221 million in 2023. This sluggish growth was due to a reduction in manufacturing activities and disruption of supply chain and logistic operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking forward, the Europe MDO PE film industry forecast looks bright amid a 1.4% spike in future CAGR compared to the historical growth rate. Growing concerns about environmental conditions and stringent regulations over usage of non-recyclable plastic are set to fuel MDO PE film demand in Europe.

Awareness regarding sustainability and eco-friendly packaging among countries like Germany and the United Kingdom is another key factor impacting growth. The ability of MDO-PE films to be recycled easily is encouraging adoption across many European countries.

Packaging solutions, especially single-use plastic, can lead to increased pollution levels. This is prompting companies in the region to opt for sustainable and recyclable packaging options like machine-direction orientation polyethylene films.

Increasing regulations around non-biodegradable materials are significantly contributing to sales growth. MDO PE films, being easily recyclable, make these suitable for sustainability purposes. These films are helping European countries maintain maximum sustainability factor.

MOD-PE films possess high rigidity which ultimately assists in maintaining the integrity and intactness of the product. Packaging companies use MDO PE films for brand signatures, taglines, and company trademarks because of excellent printability.

MOD PE films possessing transparency offer visibility for anything printed on film thus playing an essential role for branding purposes. The focus on sustainability is expected to create MDO PE film industry opportunities in Europe.

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Ismail Sutaria

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Country-wise Insights

The section below covers the future forecast for MDO-PE films in terms of countries. Benelux and Poland are set to witness high MDO PE film consumption, recording CAGRs of 4.3% and 4%, respectively, through 2034. The section also aims to explore current trends in MDO PE films sector across key European countries.

Countries CAGR 2024 to 2034
Benelux 4.3%
Poland 4%
Nordics 3.9%
Germany 1.5%
United Kingdom 1.3%

Implementation of Strict Environmental Regulations Fueling Growth in Germany

Germany dominates the European MDO-PE film industry with a value of USD 42.6 million in 2024. This is attributable to escalating demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions and stringent regulations over the reduction of greenhouse emissions.

According to the report by Clean Energy Wire, the Federal Government of Germany has aimed to cut down greenhouse emissions by at least 65% by the end of 2030 and 88% by 2040. MDO-PE films are recyclable, thus becoming the first choice of material for providing packaging solutions for several industries across Germany.

MDO-PE films produced by the blown manufacturing process are flexible in nature and cost-effective in comparison with other mono-material packaging types. Thus, factors like cost-effectiveness and enforcement of stringent regulations are set to boost growth in Germany.

Thriving Food Sector in the United Kingdom to Boost MDO-PE Film Demand

The United Kingdom is projected to record a CAGR of 1.3% during the assessment period. By 2034, MDO-PE film sales in the nation are forecast to total USD 39.4 million, owing to booming food sector.

The food sector is witnessing remarkable growth in the United Kingdom. According to the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), exports of foods and drinks contributed around USD 26.68 billion to the economy in 2022.

Superior packaging is the most important factor in the food sector due to the rise in online food deliveries and packaged food items. MDO-PE films have been the ideal choice for packaging due to inherent properties and ability to maintain the quality, safety, and freshness of the product to its ideal level.

Growing Demand for Flexible Packaging Boosting Sales Growth in Poland

Sales of MDO-PE films in Poland are poised to increase at a CAGR of 4% during the assessment period. This is attributable to booming pharmaceutical sector and increasing preference and demand for flexible packaging.

Amid growing environmental concerns, consumers across Poland prefer lightweight and sustainable packaging solutions. This, in turn, is anticipated to encourage adoption of MDO PE films in flexible packaging formats like bags, pouches, and wraps, leading to sales growth.

Category-wise Insights

The section contains information about the leading segments. In terms of material, linear-low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is estimated to account for a share of 40.6% by 2034. By end-use, the food segment is projected to lead, holding a share of 36.2% in 2034.

Exceptional Properties of LLDPE to Bolster Demand for the Material

Segment Linear-low Density Polyethylene (Material)
Value Share (2034) 40.6%

When it comes to material, linear-low-density polyethylene is mostly preferred owing to its exceptional properties. The target segment is projected to register a CAGR of 2.1% during the forecast period, holding around 40.6% of the machine-direction orientation (MDO) polyethylene film industry in Europe.

Exceptional properties offered by LLDPE, like the balance between strength and flexibility and improved sealing ability, have led to its use at large scale for a variety of purposes. Linear-low density polyethylene possesses superior strength and elasticity than other materials. As a result, this material is widely used for making MDO-PE films, leading to the segment’s growth.

Growing end-user preference for MDO-LLDPE films is another key factor boosting the target segment. MDO-LLDPE films offer superior toughness and puncture resistance, which is improving popularity and usage across diverse sectors.

Food Sector Remains a Prominent Consumer of MDO-LLDPE

Segment Food (End-use)
Value Share (2034) 36.2%

The food segment is anticipated to advance at 2.9% CAGR during the projection period, accounting for a revenue share of 36.2% in 2034. This is attributable to growing demand for efficient packaging like machine direction orientation polyethylene films in the food sector.

The shift towards MDO-PE films for packaging purposes in the ever-increasing food sector is set to boost segment growth. MDO-Pe films are becoming ideal packaging solutions for protecting freshness of food products as well as extending shelf life.

Efficient, safe, and attractive packaging is considered a key factor in the food sector. This is due to the reason for maintaining the quality, integrity, and freshness of the product and also for logistics and safe transportation.

MDO-PE films, being mechanically strong, tough, and possessing superior printability and optical properties, offer the required packaging solution for the food sector. Right from fresh produce to baked goods and snacks, MDO PE films can be adjusted for strength, breathability and clarity, depending on specific needs.

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Competition Outlook

As the competition becomes fiercer, leading manufacturers of MDO-PW films in Europe are engaging in various strategies to stay ahead. For instance, MDO PE film industry players in EU are constantly developing novel solutions to meet escalating demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

Several leading MDO PE film players in Europe are highlighting the sustainability aspect of machine direction orientation polyethylene films to attract eco-conscious customers. New films are being created for diverse sectors, including medical.

Companies are constantly investing in advanced technologies to ensure consistent quality and reduce production costs. Similarly, strategies like acquisitions, new facility establishments, collaborations, mergers, and distribution agreements are becoming prevalent.

Industry Updates

  • In May 2023, Germany-based RKW Group launched RKW Horizon, the new generation of sustainable PE plastic films based on state-of-the-art MDO technology. The novel portfolio would enable the company to provide transparent print carriers and MDO films.
  • In June 2023, United Kingdom-based Klockner Pentaplast launched a fully recyclable vacuum film in collaboration with Dow Co. to ensure optimal food protection.
  • In November 2023, Austria-based Coveris Holdings introduced new thermoforming film packaging called MonoFlex Thermoform. The product would offer an eco-friendly alternative to non-recyclable items used in the global food sector.

Leading MDO-PE Film Brands in Europe

  • Coveris Holdings Inc.
  • Avery Dennison Corporation
  • Saes Coated Films S.P.A.
  • Lenzing Plastics Gmbh & Co, RKW Group
  • NOWOFOL
  • Klockner Pentaplast Group
  • Camvac Limited
  • Plasbel Plasticos S.A.U.
  • Polysack Flexible Packaging
  • Polythene UK Ltd.
  • Adapa Group
  • RKW Group
  • MANTZARIS SA.

Key Segments of Industry Report

By Material:

As per material, the report has been categorized into high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and linear-low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). Linear-low-density polyethylene is further sub-categorized into conventional LLDPE, metallocene LLDPE, high-alpha olefin (HAO) LLDPE, and medium-density LLDPE.

By Manufacturing Process:

In terms of manufacturing process, the report is segmented into cast films and blown films.

By Packaging Format:

Different packaging formats include pouches, bags and sacks, tubes, liners, lidding films, sachets and stick packs, tapes, labels, and wraps/rolls.

By End-use:

Based on end-use, the report is segmented into food, hygiene, beverages, home care, personal care, healthcare, and electronics and electricals. Food is further sub-categorized into meat, seafood, and poultry, ready-to-eat meals, dairy, bakery and confectionery, and fresh produce.

Hygiene is further divided into disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, incontinence products, underpads, and swimming diapers. Beverages are further sub-categorized into alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic beverages.

By Country:

Analysis has been carried out in key countries of Europe, which include Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Benelux, the United Kingdom, Russia, Poland, Nordics, and the Rest of Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the MDO-PE film industry in Europe?

Revenue in Europe is forecast to total USD 225.8 million in 2024.

What is the demand outlook for Europe?

Demand in Europe is projected to surge at 2.4% CAGR through 2034.

What is the future forecast for the target sector?

Sales in Europe are set to total USD 285.2 million by 2034.

Which country will showcase significant growth?

BENELUX is set to record a CAGR of 4.3% in the assessment period.

Who are the key manufacturers of MDO-PE films in Europe?

Avery Dennison Corporation, Plasbel Plásticos S.A.U., Adapa Group, and RKW Group.

What is the price of MDO-PE films?

Around Rs 260/Kg in nations like India.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Industry Introduction
	3. Industry Trends and Success Factors
	4. Industry Background
	5. Industry Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	6. Pricing Analysis
	7. Industry Value (USD) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	8. Industry Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Material
		8.1. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
		8.2. Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
		8.3. Liner-low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
			8.3.1. Conventional LLDPE
			8.3.2. Metallocene LLDPE
			8.3.3. High-alpha Olefin (HAO) LLDPE
			8.3.4. Medium Density LLDPE
	9. Industry Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Manufacturing Process
		9.1. Cast Film
		9.2. Blow Film
	10. Industry Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Packaging Format
		10.1. Pouches
		10.2. Bags and Sacks
		10.3. Tubes
		10.4. Liner and Lidding Film
		10.5. Sachets & Stick Packs
		10.6. Tapes & Labels
		10.7. Wraps/Rolls
	11. Industry Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by End Use
		11.1. Food
			11.1.1. Meat, Sea Food, and Poultry
			11.1.2. Ready to Eat Meals
			11.1.3. Dairy
			11.1.4. Bakery & Confectionery
			11.1.5. Fresh Produce
		11.2. Hygiene
			11.2.1. Disposable Diapers
			11.2.2. Sanitary Napkins
			11.2.3. Incontinence Products
			11.2.4. Under Pads
			11.2.5. Swimming Diapers
		11.3. Beverages
			11.3.1. Alcoholic Beverages
			11.3.2. Non-alcoholic Beverages
		11.4. Homecare
		11.5. Personal Care
		11.6. Healthcare
		11.7. Electronics and Electricals
	12. Industry Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Country
		12.1. Germany
		12.2. France
		12.3. Spain
		12.4. Italy
		12.5. United Kingdom
		12.6. BENELUX
		12.7. Nordics
		12.8. Poland
		12.9. Russia
		12.10. Rest of Europe
	13. Germany Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	14. France Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	15. Spain Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	16. Italy Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	17. United Kingdom Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	18. Benelux Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	19. Nordics Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	20. Poland Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	21. Russia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Industry Segments
	22. Competition Outlook, including Industry Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
	23. Company Profile
		23.1. Coveris Holdings Inc.
		23.2. Avery Dennison Corporation
		23.3. Saes Coated Film S.P.A.
		23.4. Lenzing Plastics Gmbh & Co
		23.5. RKW Group
		23.6. NOWOFOL
		23.7. Klockner Pentaplast Group
		23.8. Camvac Limited
		23.9. Plasbel Plasticos S.A.U.
		23.10. Polysack Flexible Packaging
		23.11. Polythene UK Ltd.
		23.12. Adapa Group
		23.13. MANTZARIS SA
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