13th PIE Market Survey: How is the European plastics industry doing? / White paper with the results of our latest economic survey

Every year, Plastics Information Europe (PIE) surveys companies in the European plastics industry as part of the PIE Market Survey to find out their thoughts and experiences on the economic situation in the past 12 months. The most recent survey was conducted at the turn of 2025/26. More than 155 companies took part and the results are now available.

For most companies in the European plastics industry, 2025 was a year of consolidation, marked by restrained employment development and persistent economic concerns. Among our respondents, fewer than a quarter reported an increase in number of employees compared with 2024, while around 45% kept staffing levels unchanged. At the same time, nearly a third reduced their workforce, underlining the continued pressure across the value chain. Plastics processing companies were among those most affected, with almost 39% reporting job losses.

Despite the headwinds, the majority of survey participants continue to look towards the future with optimism. Almost half of the respondents expect business performance to improve in 2026 compared with the previous year.

Only 12.9% of those surveyed remain pessimistic about their prospects in 2026. Our survey also revealed that around 40% of companies foresee stronger conditions in the domestic market – which is saying something, given the note that 2025 ended on. All in all, it’s safe to say that improvements are expected across the board in 2025.