Report shows growth of glass packaging production in EU

According to a new report from the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE), the European production of glass packaging for food and beverage continues to grow.

The increase of 2 percent in tonnes and 1.9 percent in units (representing an increase of 748 million units) recorded in the first half of 2019 corresponds to the best performance over the past four years, the report shows. From 2016-2019, half year production increased by 3.5 percent.

FEVE points out that this strong growth is particularly noteworthy given broader macroeconomic trends in the EU according to consultancy Vivid Economics. “2019 was a challenging year for many major European economies. However, container glass’ impressive production and sales figures are indicative of a healthy, robust and dynamic industry,” said Paul Sammon, Industry Lead at Vivid Economics which reports and analyses data for FEVE. “The increase in growth suggests the sector remains an attractive one for customers and investors and that container glass will be central to a sustainable, circular economy.”

According to a publicly available report by Nielsen, FEVE said, within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) space, it’s now common practice for shoppers to look for a product which is good for them, but also for the environment.

“Today, growth opportunities for brands are into the ability to combine what is good for the environment with what is good for consumers,” added Michel Giannuzzi, President of FEVE. “This increased demand for glass reflects the increasing consumer quest for a healthy and sustainable lifestyle also when it comes to packaging choice.” 

Glass packaging is the leading packaging material for many sectors like beer, still and sparkling wines, spirits and it is steadily recovering market share in food, water and soft drinks markets, FEVE said.