Stretch Film Industry in DACH Poised for Growth with Sustainability and Innovation at the Forefront

The stretch film industry in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) is gearing up for steady expansion, underpinned by rising demand for efficient packaging solutions, sustainability-driven innovation, and the fast-evolving dynamics of logistics and e-commerce. According to market projections, the sector is expected to climb from USD 363.4 million in 2025 to USD 472.5 million by 2035, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.7% during the forecast period.

This growth story reflects how the region’s packaging sector is transforming in response to consumer expectations, regulatory pressures, and technological advancements. Both established leaders and emerging manufacturers are actively leveraging this shift to expand their footprint and innovate with next-generation solutions.

Market Momentum and Key Growth Drivers

Stretch films are becoming indispensable in industries ranging from food and beverage to logistics and pharmaceuticals, primarily due to their durability, load stability, and ability to protect goods during transportation. The DACH region, with its strong industrial base and advanced supply chain networks, is uniquely positioned to drive adoption.

E-commerce has emerged as a key catalyst, especially in Austria and Germany, where safe palletization and product integrity are critical. At the same time, regulatory frameworks pushing for eco-friendly packaging solutions have spurred innovation in recyclable and compostable film materials.

Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. With about 70% of plastics ending up as waste within a short span of their lifecycle, governments and corporations are under pressure to transition to recyclable, lightweight, and durable films. This opens significant opportunities for companies investing in eco-friendly innovation, a trend already embraced by several top players in the region.

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Segmental Insights

By Material

Polyethylene (PE) holds the lion’s share, accounting for nearly 48.6% of the market in 2025. Its dominance comes from its cost-effectiveness, versatility, and superior mechanical properties. The segment benefits from innovations in co-extrusion and multilayer films that offer enhanced puncture resistance and load retention.

However, bio-plastics are emerging as the fastest-growing material type, expected to outpace conventional materials with a CAGR of 3.2%. This reflects the growing awareness of environmental sustainability and regulatory encouragement across Europe. Both established manufacturers and new entrants are focusing on this space, investing heavily in R&D to bring advanced bio-based stretch films to the market.

By End Use

The food and beverage sector leads with 35.4% market share, fueled by stringent hygiene standards, cold chain expansion, and rising demand for extended shelf life. High-performance stretch films help ensure product safety while minimizing waste, making them critical for food logistics.

Cosmetics and personal care are also emerging as fast-growing end-use sectors, with a projected CAGR of 3.6%. As consumers demand visually appealing, transparent, and hygienic packaging, stretch films are gaining traction in this segment.

By Sales Channel

Distributors dominate with 42.7% share, offering flexible supply chains, localized support, and strong relationships with end-users. Their role has been especially crucial in ensuring responsiveness to fluctuating demand in sectors like retail, logistics, and foodservice. Moving forward, partnerships between manufacturers and distributors will remain a cornerstone for expanding market reach across DACH.

Regional Highlights

Germany: Precision and Efficiency in Packaging

Germany’s advanced manufacturing sectors, such as automotive, machinery, and logistics, create strong demand for stretch films to ensure safe palletization. Sustainability initiatives are also shaping adoption, with manufacturers focusing on films made from recycled or renewable materials. Germany is expected to maintain steady growth at a CAGR of 2.1%, supported by its strong industrial base and push for eco-friendly solutions.

Austria: The E-Commerce Powerhouse

Austria is forecasted to lead the region with a CAGR of 3.9%. The booming e-commerce sector and growing preference for online shopping are fueling demand for stretch films to secure and protect shipments. With more retailers investing in packaging innovation, manufacturers see Austria as a lucrative market for advanced, lightweight, and sustainable stretch films.

Switzerland: Innovation Hub for Specialty Films

Switzerland is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6%, driven by its strong logistics sector and innovation-focused economy. Local companies are investing in films with advanced properties such as UV resistance, puncture strength, and superior clarity, making them ideal for specialized applications across industries.

Historical Growth and Future Outlook

From 2020 to 2025, the DACH stretch film market grew at a modest CAGR of 1.5%, rising from USD 318.7 million in 2020 to USD 363.4 million in 2025. This steady trajectory highlights the resilience of the industry, even in the face of economic and supply chain challenges.

Looking ahead, innovation and sustainability are set to accelerate growth. Semi-annual analysis suggests a gradual pick-up in momentum, with CAGR rising to 2.9% in the latter half of the forecast period, reflecting strong demand from evolving industries and consumer trends.

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Competitive Landscape

The competitive environment in the DACH stretch film industry is characterized by a mix of global leaders and regional specialists.

• Polifilm Group continues to innovate in protective films, recently unveiling advanced products designed for fiber laser processing.
• Coveris Holdings Inc. launched a lightweight, next-generation stretch film line containing at least 30% recycled material, aligning with European sustainability regulations.
• Intertape Polymer Group Inc., The Ergis Group, and Scientex Berhad are strengthening their positions with R&D investments and partnerships.
• Regional players like Gebr. Dürrbeck Kunststoffe GmbH, Manupackaging Deutschland GmbH, and Duoplast AG are focusing on niche markets, leveraging localized expertise and distribution strength.

The presence of both established manufacturers and new entrants underscores the dynamic nature of the industry. While large players focus on scale, efficiency, and compliance, emerging firms are carving out market share with bio-based innovations, design differentiation, and customer-focused offerings.

Key Dynamics Shaping the Market

1. Durability and Tear Resistance: Industrial sectors increasingly demand films that can withstand stress while ensuring load stability.
2. Transparent Packaging Appeal: With consumers making quick, on-site purchase decisions, transparent and glossy packaging is becoming a critical differentiator.
3. Plastic Waste Awareness: Recycling initiatives and government mandates are accelerating the shift toward recyclable and reusable films.

Conclusion

The stretch film industry in the DACH region is set on a growth trajectory, driven by sustainability, innovation, and the evolving needs of modern supply chains. As established leaders strengthen their market positions and emerging manufacturers innovate with eco-friendly and specialized solutions, the industry is well-positioned to meet rising demand across food, logistics, retail, and consumer goods.

With Austria’s e-commerce boom, Germany’s industrial precision, and Switzerland’s innovation in specialty films, the region is poised to become a hub for next-generation stretch film solutions. The coming decade promises a dynamic market environment where adaptability, collaboration, and sustainability will define success.

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