The packaging sector in France
The packaging sector in France is very broad: it includes machines for filling, dosing, packaging, capping, boxing, closing, palletising, etc. These services are requested by all sectors of the activity, although the most in demand are the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.
It is therefore a successful and growing market: it has a turnover of $35 billion worldwide and this figure is expected to double in the next 10 years.
And the packaging sector in France is no less so, ranking seventh in the world market for packaging machines.
Some highlights on the packaging sector in France
- Innovation and Sustainability: In recent years, there has been a strong focus on sustainability. Many companies are adopting recyclable and biodegradable materials, as well as more sustainable production practices. This responds to growing consumer demand for products that are environmentally friendly.
- Advanced Technology: Digitalisation and automation are transforming the packaging sector. 3D printing, the use of artificial intelligence and packaging personalisation are trends that are gaining ground, allowing companies to offer more innovative solutions tailored to market needs.
- Regulations: France has strict regulations regarding the safety and sustainability of packaging, especially in the food sector. Regulations on the use of plastics and waste management are driving companies to look for greener alternatives.
- Diversity of Materials: The industry uses a wide range of materials, including plastic, paper, cardboard, glass and metal. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the type of product, target market and sustainability considerations.
- Growing market: As the French economy recovers and evolves, the packaging sector is also experiencing growth. Demand for attractive and functional packaging continues to rise, driven by e-commerce and the need for differentiation in a competitive market.
- Collaborations and Alliances: Many companies are forming strategic alliances to innovate in packaging design and production. These collaborations can range from designers to material suppliers, allowing for greater creativity and efficiency.
- Consumer Trends: Changes in consumer habits, such as the rise of online shopping and a preference for local and organic products, are influencing packaging design and functionality. Consumers are looking for packaging that is practical, attractive and reflects their values.
However, there are a few considerations to bear in mind about the packaging sector in France
The first is R&D
In fact, the technological revolution in machinery has already taken place, so it is difficult to innovate further in this field. The main areas of development in the packaging sector are now focused on productivity and packaging materials. These are the demands made by customers and not anticipated by manufacturers.
The second is export related.
Especially with the problem of establishing an after-sales service. It is more complicated to provide a maintenance service for packaging machines, where there is often a language barrier, than the barrier of geographical distance.
There are also questions related to marketing and communication.
Finally, the low renewal rate of this type of equipment limits market growth. Here we find that promotional marketing is gaining strength, but strategic marketing is not very present and there is no real competitive intelligence.
Finally, regulatory aspects and eco-design are also increasingly present in all sectors combined, and are also relevant to the packaging sector.
Therefore, having ISO 9001 certification is not a prerequisite for customers, but most companies in the packaging sector in France apply these standards.
The main figures of the packaging sector in France are:
- France has 284 suppliers in the packaging and packaging machine manufacturing sector, 33 of them in Ile-de-France.
- The total turnover of the French sector is 912 million euros in the manufacture of packaging, packaging and weighing equipment, 53% in 2012.
- The global market volume is $35 billion for packaging machines, a figure that is expected to double in the next 10 years.
Thus, the packaging sector in France is a market that, although there are still many possible improvements to be made, is full of expectations and business opportunities for the coming years.
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