IMAP Germany Plastic Recycling Sector Report

The plastic recycling industry is undergoing significant changes: Economic slowdowns, increased raw material prices, and delays in implementing political regulations temporarily affected the plastic recycling machinery, plant and component industry. Since 2024, an upturn in the M&A market has been recognizable, driven by persistently high ESG requirements, growing demand for circular packaging solutions, and long-term sustainability goals such as the European “Green Deal.”

Our report offers exclusive insights into the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges in the industry and highlights the role of machinery manufacturers in this dynamic environment. Stay informed and gain valuable insights into the latest M&A trends and market dynamics, benefiting from well-founded analyses and strategic perspectives!

Key Highlights:

• The share of recycled plastic waste is expected to increase to 20% by 2030 (+7.2% CAGR 2020–30) and to 45% by 2050 (+5.1% CAGR 2020–50)
• Crucial to this growth are technologies for plastic recycling and extrusion, which are developed by specialized machinery and components manufacturers
• These players are critical in meeting the long-term and rising demand for sustainable plastic solutions
• Global investors and strategic buyers are targeting ESG-focused companies to drive innovation and competitiveness in sustainable solutions
• Machinery and component manufacturers with strong technological differentiation and market position are in the focus
• IMAP currently observes multiples between ~7x to ~9x EBITDA for machinery and component manufacturers in the plastic recycling and extrusion sector, if proprietary technologies and strong market positions exist
• For smaller companies with regional presence, lower vertical integration and profitability, discounts on multiples are possible (~6x to ~7x EBITDA)