New White Paper from Apenberg & Partner Highlights Packaging Market Trends Through 2026

Germany’s packaging industry is undergoing a profound structural transformation. After years of continuous growth, the market has been in sharp decline since 2023. Apenberg & Partner has published a new white paper titled “Market Development of the Packaging Industry 2024–2026”, providing an in-depth analysis of current conditions and expected future trends.

According to the white paper, the production value of the industry dropped to approximately €30 billion in 2024. By 2026, it is projected to fall further to €26 billion—a yearly decrease of around 5%. The steepest declines are seen in packaging made from paper, cardboard, and carton, as well as glass and metal. Plastic packaging shows a more mixed picture, with some segments shrinking significantly while others continue to grow.

The report also examines the impact of regulatory changes, particularly the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) set to take effect in 2026. Additionally, it highlights key data gaps in current market assessments, including areas such as composite packaging and sustainable substitute materials.