European tube production stable at high level in first half of 2018
The European tube market was particularly stable in the first half of 2018. The member companies of etma, the European tube manufacturers association, produced some 5.6 billion tubes during the six-month period. This figure is somewhat higher than the production in the corresponding period of the previous year, but when the figures are adjusted to take the production of new member companies into account the industry as a whole matched equal the very good level of last year.
Gregor Spengler, etma’s secretary general, concludes that the half-year’s figures show the tube is heading along a path of success again in 2018 and enjoying unbridled consumer popularity. Furthermore, the prospects for the sector are definitely promising given that the order intake for tubes at the beginning of the second half of the year is regarded as being satisfactory across the board. Tube manufacturers are therefore looking forward optimistically to the final figures for 2018 and are hoping to at least repeat 2017’s excellent result.
Moderate decline in demand for aluminium tubes
In the first half of 2018 there were light gains for laminate and plastic tubes, which was attributable primarily to buoyant demand from the cosmetics markets. The moderate decline in demand for aluminium tubes can be explained by the fact that some hair colouring products have been switched to laminate tubes. Overall, the tube is valued by consumers and manufacturers alike as a modern form of packaging that is abreast of the times and offers a wealth of practical and consumer-friendly functions and unique hygienic properties.
The European tube industry is also well placed to meet future demands regarding sustainability. The discussion concerning the growing pollution of the seas by plastic waste in particular has led to brand manufacturers and retailers worldwide adopting voluntary commitments. According to these, only recyclable or reusable packaging will be used from 2025 onwards. In addition, the fraction of recycled material in plastic packaging shall be increased further.
Demand for European aluminium foil remained well below 2022 levels throughout 2023, according to European Aluminium Foil Association’s recent figures.
Four members of the European Aluminium Packaging Group (EAPG) have signed an agreement to engage in a project to maximise the recycled content levels of beverage cans.
Several members of the London-based International Aluminium Institute (IAI) have signed on to the organization’s initiative to meet a new GHG emissions reduction target for all its member companies.