Plastics Processing Machinery Market
By Type;
Extruder Machines, Injection Molding Machines, Blow Molding Machines, Vacuum Forming, and OthersBy Material;
Polyolefin, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), and OthersBy End-User Industry;
Packaging, Automotive, Construction, Consumer Goods, and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Plastics Processing Machinery Market Overview
Plastics Processing Machinery Market (USD Million)
Plastics Processing Machinery Market was valued at USD 42,293.76 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 55,282.18 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.9%.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 3.9 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 | 
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 | 
| CAGR (%) | 3.9 % | 
| Market Size (2024) | USD 42,293.76 Million | 
| Market Size (2031) | USD 55,282.18 Million | 
| Market Concentration | High | 
| Report Pages | 312 | 
Major Players
- Arburg GmbH + Co KG
 - Engel Austria GmbH
 - Haitian International Holdings Limited
 - KraussMaffei Group GmbH
 - Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH
 - Milacron Holdings Corp.
 - SABIC
 - Chen Hsong Holdings Limited
 - Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd.
 - Wittmann Battenfeld GmbH
 
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Plastics Processing Machinery Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Plastics Processing Machinery Market is growing steadily as industries adopt advanced systems to enhance efficiency and product quality. Around 54% of manufacturers now rely on automated machinery to achieve higher consistency and productivity. This reflects the essential role of plastics processing technology in supporting modern manufacturing.
Increasing Focus on Production Efficiency
The use of plastics processing machinery is rising, with nearly 47% of companies emphasizing equipment that enables greater output with fewer resources. Approximately 38% of businesses report significant gains in operational efficiency and reduced downtime after adopting upgraded machinery. This shift highlights the importance of modernization.
Innovation Strengthening Market Dynamics
Advancements in machinery technology are shaping the industry. Close to 42% of new equipment features automation, robotics, and digital precision systems to enhance production accuracy. At the same time, nearly 34% of innovations target energy-saving capabilities, aligning with sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Broad Adoption Across Sectors
Applications of plastics processing machinery extend to multiple industries. Nearly 49% of demand is generated by packaging and automotive sectors, while about 41% is driven by construction, consumer products, and electronics. This wide adoption base underscores the significance of processing machinery in diverse applications.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market Key Takeaways
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The shift toward Industry 4.0-enabled machinery featuring automation, IoT integration, and predictive maintenance is transforming production efficiency and capital investment strategies.
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Asia Pacific remains the leading and fastest-growing region, driven by rapid industrialization, expanding packaging demand, and growth in automotive and manufacturing sectors.
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Injection molding machines continue to dominate due to their versatility, while blow molding and extrusion technologies are expanding in packaging and infrastructure applications.
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Rising focus on sustainability and circular economy practices is boosting demand for energy-efficient machinery and systems capable of processing recycled and bio-based plastics.
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The packaging industry represents the largest end-use segment, supported by strong demand for high-speed production of flexible and rigid plastic formats.
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Challenges such as high equipment costs, volatile raw material prices, and tightening plastic regulations continue to limit profitability for some manufacturers.
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Leading suppliers are prioritizing modular machine designs, hybrid drive technologies, and localized after-sales support to enhance global competitiveness and operational reliability.
 
Plastics Processing Machinery Market Recent Developments
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In February 2025, Bain Capital announced a majority-stake investment in Milacron to enhance its position in the Plastics Processing Machinery Market. The investment focuses on advancing injection molding and extrusion technologies to support next-generation manufacturing solutions.
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In March 2025, Milacron finalized its transaction with Bain Capital, marking a key step in expanding its global presence and innovation capabilities. This collaboration aims to strengthen Milacron’s ability to serve the automotive, packaging, and consumer goods industries with cutting-edge processing technologies.
 
Plastics Processing Machinery Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Plastics Processing Machinery Market has been segmented by Type, Material, End-User Industry and Geography.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market, Segmentation by Type
The market is structured by Type to reflect production methods and performance requirements across downstream applications. Decision-makers evaluate throughput, precision, automation, and energy efficiency alongside capex/opex trade-offs, influencing procurement and upgrade cycles. Emerging themes include digitalization, predictive maintenance, and lightweighting trends that shift demand toward versatile systems while addressing regulatory compliance and workforce productivity challenges over the forecast horizon.
Extruder Machines
Extruder Machines are favored for continuous production of films, sheets, pipes, and profiles, where line speed, melt homogeneity, and screw/barrel design drive competitive differentiation. Investments focus on advanced controls, gravimetric dosing, and energy-optimized drives to curb operating costs while improving quality. As recyclate usage rises, processors adopt enhanced degassing and filtration to manage variability, supporting circular economy goals with stable output and reduced scrap.
Injection Molding Machines
Injection Molding Machines dominate high-volume, high-precision components in automotive and consumer goods, where cycle time, repeatability, and clamping force are critical. Growth is underpinned by electric and hybrid drives that deliver lower energy use and cleaner operations, aligning with factory ESG targets. Tooling integration, quick-change capabilities, and automation cells enable shorter time-to-market and mitigate labor constraints in multi-cavity, thin-wall applications.
Blow Molding Machines
Blow Molding Machines address hollow articles such as bottles and containers, balancing material efficiency, wall thickness control, and barrier performance. Demand tracks packaging innovation and regulatory shifts toward recyclability, prompting upgrades to handle rPET and bio-based resins. Producers emphasize changeover speed and integrated quality inspection to support SKU proliferation while maintaining consistent mechanical properties and aesthetics.
Vacuum Forming
Vacuum Forming offers cost-effective forming of sheets into durable parts for transport, construction, and display uses, valued for tooling economy and short runs. Growth is supported by demand for customized panels and protective packaging where moderate tooling costs and design flexibility matter. Process improvements focus on heating control, material utilization, and integration with CNC trimming to enhance surface quality and reduce post-processing waste.
Others
The Others category includes complementary technologies such as compression molding, rotational molding, and specialized systems tailored to niche formulations. Adoption is typically driven by part geometry, mechanical performance, or batch economics not suited to mainstream processes. Vendors compete via application engineering, aftermarket services, and modular options that align with evolving sustainability and automation requirements.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market, Segmentation by Material
Segmentation by Material reflects resin behavior under heat and shear, dictating machinery selection, screw design, and downstream handling. Procurement strategies increasingly account for recycled content and bio-derivatives, necessitating broader processing windows and robust quality control. Market participants prioritize process stability, additive compatibility, and regulatory approvals to meet application-specific performance and sustainability targets.
Polyolefin
Polyolefin (notably PE and PP) remains a workhorse due to favorable cost-to-performance and broad convertibility across extrusion, molding, and forming. Equipment demand centers on high-throughput lines with improved cooling and die designs that minimize neck-in and warpage. As packaging shifts toward recyclable monomaterials, processors adopt advanced blending and inline inspection to maintain clarity and impact resistance with higher recyclate content.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET processing focuses on preform molding and stretch blow molding, where intrinsic viscosity management and dehumidifying are essential. Upgrades target energy-efficient ovens, precision molds, and closed-loop controls to enhance bottle performance and lightweighting. The shift to food-grade rPET increases interest in machinery capable of handling variable feedstock while sustaining optical properties and mechanical strength.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC requires careful thermal stability and compounding, with calendering, extrusion, and injection systems tuned to rigid and flexible grades. Investments highlight temperature control, venting, and corrosion-resistant metallurgy to extend uptime. Construction-led applications such as profiles, pipes, and flooring favor lines that ensure dimensional accuracy and surface finish while meeting evolving compliance and additive restrictions.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
ABS is valued for toughness and aesthetic finish in automotive interiors and consumer electronics, driving demand for molding systems with tight tolerances and color control. Processors emphasize gate design, cooling uniformity, and surface replication to achieve premium textures and gloss. As OEMs pursue lightweighting and design complexity, integrated automation and in-mold decoration capabilities become differentiators.
Others
The Others segment spans engineering resins and blends tailored to high-heat, chemical, or impact requirements beyond commodity polymers. Equipment choices hinge on screw geometry, residence time, and pressure control to protect polymer integrity. Suppliers winning share pair application support with data-rich controls that stabilize processing windows for specialty and recycled inputs.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market, Segmentation by End-User Industry
By End-User Industry, demand aligns with application lifecycles, product redesign cadence, and compliance regimes across sectors. Buyers weigh total cost of ownership, automation readiness, and quality assurance to meet throughput and traceability goals. Vendor strategies focus on turnkey cells, retrofits, and service agreements that de-risk adoption and improve uptime for mission-critical production lines.
Packaging
Packaging leads machinery utilization for films, containers, and protective formats, prioritizing speed, material efficiency, and lightweighting. Systems that accommodate recyclable monomaterials and rising recycled content gain traction. Integrated quality control and fast changeovers support SKU proliferation in food, beverage, and personal care, where shelf appeal and barrier performance remain key.
Automotive
Automotive applications emphasize dimensional stability, surface quality, and functional integration in interior, exterior, and under-hood parts. Electrification trends stimulate needs for precision molding, thermal management components, and lightweight structures. Tier suppliers seek automation and traceability features to meet OEM quality systems while balancing cost with complex tooling and multi-material compatibility.
Construction
Construction demand spans pipes, profiles, sheets, and insulation where durability and regulatory compliance drive specifications. Processors invest in extrusion and calendering lines with robust cooling and gauging to ensure consistency at scale. Market growth correlates with infrastructure cycles and retrofitting, favoring equipment that delivers energy efficiency and consistent output in harsh operating environments.
Consumer Goods
Consumer Goods require design agility and aesthetic finishes for appliances, electronics, and household items. Manufacturers adopt molding cells with quick-tool change, robotics, and in-line inspection to maintain quality across diverse SKUs. Differentiation stems from shorter development cycles, decorative technologies, and materials handling systems that ensure color and texture consistency.
Others
The Others category includes specialized segments such as healthcare disposables, agriculture components, and industrial goods. Purchasing decisions focus on validation, material traceability, and sanitary design where applicable. Suppliers succeed by tailoring process parameters, after-sales service, and training programs to niche production requirements.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Plastics Processing Machinery Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America prioritizes advanced automation, energy-efficient drives, and strong aftermarket services, reflecting high labor costs and stringent quality standards. Replacement cycles favor electric and hybrid systems with integrated analytics and traceability. Sustainability initiatives and brand owner commitments support upgrades that handle higher recycled content without compromising throughput or aesthetics.
Europe
Europe demonstrates strong adoption of circular economy practices, emphasizing equipment that processes recyclates and bio-based feedstocks with stable output. Tight environmental regulations and premium engineering drive demand for precision, low-energy solutions and closed-loop controls. Vendors compete on process innovation, digitization, and lifecycle service models that reduce downtime and ensure compliance.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is characterized by capacity additions, localization, and expanding packaging, automotive, and consumer goods manufacturing bases. Buyers balance cost competitiveness with the transition to more sophisticated, automated systems to improve yields and consistency. Supply chains favor scalable platforms and modular upgrades that support rapid product launches and rising quality expectations.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa demand is shaped by diversification initiatives, infrastructure development, and investment in packaging and construction value chains. Processors seek robust, easy-to-maintain machinery with reliable service support and training. Opportunities concentrate in projects that enhance local conversion capacity, supported by government programs and industrial clusters.
Latin America
Latin America focuses on improving manufacturing resilience, with interest in energy-efficient and automation-ready equipment to mitigate cost volatility. Regional packaging and consumer sectors encourage upgrades that enable shorter runs and higher recyclate use. Partnerships with technology providers and financing options are key to accelerating modernization and reducing total cost of ownership.
Plastics Processing Machinery Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Plastics Processing Machinery Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential | 
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development | 
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance | 
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances | 
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Growing demand for plastic products in various industries
 - Advancements in machinery technology and automation
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Increasing investments in infrastructure and construction - The global plastics processing machinery market is experiencing significant growth, driven largely by increasing investments in infrastructure and construction. Governments and private investors alike are injecting substantial funds into building and upgrading infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and residential and commercial buildings. This surge in construction activity creates a higher demand for plastics in various applications, such as pipes, fittings, insulation materials, and structural components.
Plastics processing machinery plays a critical role in meeting this demand by facilitating the efficient production of these materials. Advances in technology and innovation within this sector are enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of machinery, making it more cost-effective and suitable for large-scale production. As a result, the construction industry benefits from improved material quality and performance, further driving the growth of the plastics processing machinery market.
The trend towards sustainable construction practices is also influencing the market. There is an increasing emphasis on using recyclable and eco-friendly plastics, which requires specialized processing machinery. This shift not only supports environmental goals but also opens new opportunities for manufacturers to develop and offer advanced machinery solutions tailored to these evolving needs. Consequently, investments in infrastructure and construction continue to bolster the plastics processing machinery market, highlighting its integral role in supporting global development efforts.
 
Restraints
- Environmental regulations and sustainability concerns
 - High initial investment and maintenance costs
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Fluctuations in raw material prices - The global plastics processing machinery market is significantly influenced by fluctuations in raw material prices. Raw materials, such as polymers, resins, and additives, constitute a substantial portion of the production costs for plastics processing machinery. When the prices of these raw materials rise, manufacturers often face increased costs, which can be passed on to end-users in the form of higher prices for machinery. This price volatility can create uncertainty in the market, impacting both the purchasing decisions of companies and the overall demand for new machinery.
Fluctuations in raw material prices can also affect the technological advancements and innovations in plastics processing machinery. Manufacturers may need to adjust their product development strategies in response to cost changes, potentially slowing down the introduction of new technologies or affecting the quality and performance of the machinery. This can lead to delays in meeting industry demands and hinder the competitive edge of companies in the market.
The instability in raw material prices can influence investment and expansion plans within the plastics processing machinery sector. Companies may become more cautious with their capital expenditures and strategic investments, opting for cost-saving measures rather than pursuing new projects or upgrading existing machinery. This cautious approach can lead to a slowdown in market growth and innovation, affecting the overall dynamics of the global plastics processing machinery market.
 
Opportunities
- Emerging markets and increasing industrialization
 - Technological innovations such as 3D printing and smart machinery
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Expansion in the automotive and healthcare sectors - The global plastics processing machinery market is experiencing significant expansion, driven by robust growth in the automotive and healthcare sectors. In the automotive industry, the demand for lightweight and durable plastic components is on the rise. Automakers are increasingly turning to advanced plastics for applications such as interior trims, bumpers, and engine parts to enhance fuel efficiency and safety. This surge in automotive applications is stimulating growth in the plastics processing machinery market, as manufacturers invest in advanced machinery to meet the industry's evolving needs.
The healthcare sector's rapid expansion is contributing to the growth of the plastics processing machinery market. The demand for medical devices, packaging, and diagnostic equipment, which often require high-precision plastic components, is growing. Innovations in medical technology and an increased focus on improving patient care are driving the need for more sophisticated plastics processing equipment. This includes machinery capable of producing high-quality, sterile, and customizable plastic products essential for modern healthcare applications.
The convergence of these two sectors—automotive and healthcare—demonstrates the versatile role of plastics processing machinery in meeting diverse industry needs. As both sectors continue to innovate and expand, the demand for advanced machinery that can produce high-performance plastic components is expected to grow. This presents opportunities for market players to invest in cutting-edge technology and expand their capabilities to cater to these dynamic and evolving industries.
 
Plastics Processing Machinery Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Plastics Processing Machinery Market is witnessing growing competition as equipment manufacturers emphasize innovation, production expansion, and strategic collaboration with automotive, packaging, and consumer goods industries. Nearly 63% of the market share is dominated by established machinery providers, while smaller firms focus on cost-efficient, customized, and specialized equipment. Strategic partnerships and selective merger initiatives are strengthening distribution networks and supporting sustainable growth.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market demonstrates moderate consolidation, with around 65% of revenues managed by top-tier plastics processing machinery manufacturers. Larger firms adopt advanced strategies in injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and thermoforming machinery, while smaller companies target niche applications and regional markets. Rising merger activity and industry collaboration are reinforcing concentration and ensuring steady growth across sectors.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Close to 56% of plastics processing machinery is supplied through direct sales contracts with OEMs and industrial manufacturers, while distributors and equipment dealers handle the remainder. Branding strategies emphasize reliability, precision, and energy efficiency. Strong partnerships with downstream industries and digital collaboration platforms are broadening adoption and driving consistent growth.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
More than 52% of manufacturers invest in R&D to drive innovation in automation, energy-efficient operations, and advanced materials handling. Technological advancements in IoT integration, AI-based process control, and smart maintenance systems are reshaping machinery performance. Strategic collaboration with industrial research institutes and end-user industries accelerates innovation and ensures sustainable growth.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Asia Pacific accounts for nearly 47% of the plastics processing machinery market, driven by strong industrial manufacturing and packaging demand. North America demonstrates steady growth with technological strategies, while Europe shows expansion through automation and high-performance machinery adoption. Regional partnerships and localized production hubs are strengthening competitiveness globally.
Future Outlook
The plastics processing machinery industry is projected to sustain robust growth, with over 61% of stakeholders anticipating stronger consolidation. Rising merger initiatives, continuous product innovation, and broader collaboration with manufacturing sectors will define competitiveness. Long-term expansion into smart, automated, and energy-efficient machinery ensures a progressive future outlook for this market.
Key players in Plastics Processing Machinery Market include :
- Arburg GmbH + Co KG
 - Engel Austria GmbH
 - Haitian International Holdings Limited
 - KraussMaffei Group GmbH
 - Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH
 - Milacron Holdings Corp.
 - SABIC
 - Chen Hsong Holdings Limited
 - Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd.
 - Wittmann Battenfeld GmbH
 
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
 - Key Developments
 - Financial Overview
 - Strategies
 - Company SWOT Analysis
 
- Introduction 
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
 - Research Methodology
 - Abbreviations
 
 - Market Definition & Study Scope
 - Executive Summary 
- Market Snapshot, By Type
 - Market Snapshot, By Material
 - Market Snapshot, By End-User Industry
 - Market Snapshot, By Region
 
 - Plastics Processing Machinery Market Dynamics 
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
- Drivers 
- Growing demand for plastic products in various industries
 - Advancements in machinery technology and automation
 - Increasing investments in infrastructure and construction
 
 - Restraints 
- Environmental regulations and sustainability concerns
 - High initial investment and maintenance costs
 - Fluctuations in raw material prices
 
 - Opportunities 
- Emerging markets and increasing industrialization
 - Technological innovations such as 3D printing and smart machinery
 - Expansion in the automotive and healthcare sectors
 
 
 - Drivers 
 - PEST Analysis 
- Political Analysis
 - Economic Analysis
 - Social Analysis
 - Technological Analysis
 
 - Porter's Analysis 
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
 - Bargaining Power of Buyers
 - Threat of Substitutes
 - Threat of New Entrants
 - Competitive Rivalry
 
 
 - Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
 - Market Segmentation 
- Plastics Processing Machinery Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Extruder Machines
 - Injection Molding Machines
 - Blow Molding Machines
 - Vacuum Forming
 - Others
 
 - Plastics Processing Machinery Market, By Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Polyolefin
 - Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
 - Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
 - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
 - Others
 
 - Plastics Processing Machinery Market, By End-User Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Packaging
 - Automotive
 - Construction
 - Consumer Goods
 - Other
 
 - Plastics Processing Machinery Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- North America 
- United States
 - Canada
 
 - Europe 
- Germany
 - United Kingdom
 - France
 - Italy
 - Spain
 - Nordic
 - Benelux
 - Rest of Europe
 
 - Asia Pacific 
- Japan
 - China
 - India
 - Australia & New Zealand
 - South Korea
 - ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
 - Rest of Asia Pacific
 
 - Middle East & Africa 
- GCC
 - Israel
 - South Africa
 - Rest of Middle East & Africa
 
 - Latin America 
- Brazil
 - Mexico
 - Argentina
 - Rest of Latin America
 
 
 - North America 
 
 - Plastics Processing Machinery Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
 - Competitive Landscape 
- Company Profiles 
- Haitian International Holdings
 - ARBURG GmbH & Co KG
 - ENGEL Austria GmbH
 - Milacron
 - The Japan Steel Works (JSW)
 - Sumitomo Heavy Industries
 - KraussMaffei Group
 - Chen Hsong Holdings
 - Husky Injection Molding Systems
 - Nissei Plastic Industrial
 - Wittmann Battenfeld
 - Brown Machine Group
 - Battenfeld-Cincinnati
 - Reifenhäuser Group
 - Persimmon Technologies
 
 
 - Company Profiles 
 - Analyst Views
 - Future Outlook of the Market
 

