< PreviousI K 2025: world premiere of the Allrounder 475 V The Allrounder 475 V will have its world premiere at the K 2025 trade fair. It boasts high energy efficiency, a small installation area and an attractive price/performance ra- tio. Sales will commence worldwide in January 2026. The new vertical machine from Arburg can be used flexibly and is ideal for both manual and automated overmoulding of inserts. The installation area is especially small: despite its small footprint, the new vertical machine offers extra space even for larger moulds. The standard installation height is 250 millimetres and can be extended by 100 or 200 millimetres as an option. Side doors and the closing cylinder, which is positioned higher up, ensure easy access to the mould and the ejector. An off-centre ejector is available as an option. The table height is 900 millimetres for improved ergonom- ic working. The Allrounder 475 V has a clamping force of 1,000 kN and can be equipped with hydraulic injection units rang- ing in size from 100 to 400. For energy-efficient operation, the machine is equipped as standard with Arburg servo- hydraulics (ASH), which continuously adjusts the water- cooled, speed-regulated servo motors to the actual power requirement. This minimises no-load losses and reduces specific energy requirement by up to 60% compared to conventional hydraulic machines. If required, the vertical machine can be flexibly automat- ed, e.g. with a six-axis or linear Multilift robotic system. Whether simple sprue removal, difficult component han- dling or a tailored automation system for complex project systems including upstream or downstream process steps – Arburg can fulfil almost any customer specifications. The turnkey experts supply machines, including automation and peripherals, in compliance with CE standards, all from a sin- gle source. At booth 13A13, the Allrounder 475 V can be seen as part of a turnkey system that produces, labels, and finishes high- quality covers for car remote keys from PC/ABS recycled material in combination with in-mould decoration (IMD). Coveris has expanded its portfolio under its No Waste mis- sion with the introduction of MonoFlexBP, a resealable monomaterial tray developed for refrigerated foods. The solution is positioned as an alternative to non-recyclable, mixed-material packs and is designed to combine recycla- bility with everyday handling. The tray incorporates a reclosure system that allows mul- tiple openings and closures to support portion-by-portion use and help reduce food waste. To complement the tray format, Coveris also supplies thermoformable bottom films that provide product protection and help secure optimal shelf life across a range of chilled contents. For applications that require elevated oxygen barriers, the company offers a PET- and PA-free lidding film that seals, peels and reseals on PP trays while delivering a high gas barrier, a parameter that is essential for preserving the freshness of perishable goods. According to the company, the combination of re- cyclable MonoFlexBP trays and reclosable lidding films is intended to balance sustainability requirements with func- tional performance and consumer convenience. The trays are described as fully recyclable monomaterial packs and are compatible with existing packaging machinery, enabling implementation without line changes. “We are extremely pleased to launch MonoFlexBP tray for refrigerated goods. With this sustainable alternative to non-recyclable materials, Coveris continues to lead the way in circular packaging innovation, offering high-performance solutions that address both environmental impact and con- sumer demand”, said Katja Killian, BU Flexibles Business Development Director at Coveris. The solution is suited for processed meats, sausages, dairy products, cheese and other chilled or refrigerated items. To meet branding and shelf differentiation needs, trays can be printed using gravure or flexographic methods and offered with matt or paper-effect lacquer finishes. I Coveris launches monomaterial resealable tray for chilled foods Plast Echo20Entries are now open for the Plastics Recycling Awards Eu- rope 2026, inviting organisations across the European plas- tics recycling value chain to present solutions that advance circular use of plastics. The programme covers 7 categories spanning product applications and technology, and is open to brand owners, retailers, product designers, manufactur- ers, packaging and recycling machinery producers, raw ma- terial suppliers and suppliers of recycled plastic products. The deadline for entries is Friday, 5 December 2025. Win- ners will be announced on the second day of the Plastics Recycling Show Europe 2026 at the RAI in Amsterdam, on 5 and 6 May 2026, marking the 10th edition of PRS Europe. The awards are jointly organised by Plastics Recyclers Eu- rope and Crain Communications. Eligible entries must be designed, developed or manufactured in Europe. Products must contain at least 50% recycled content and all sub- missions must contribute to sustainability and the circular economy. “These awards provide a platform to celebrate the ingenuity of companies and individuals who are pushing boundaries and creating real impact. Each entry is a sign of progress, showing how innovation and collaboration are helping Eu- rope to move closer to a truly circular plastics economy”, said Ton Emans, President of Plastics Recyclers Europe. “The Plastics Recycling Awards are not only a celebration of success but also a catalyst for change. Reaching the 10th edition of PRS Europe underlines the growth and in- fluence of this community. We invite organisations across the value chain to participate, demonstrate their leadership, and showcase solutions that will define the next decade of sustainable plastics use”, added Matt Barber, Global Events Director at Crain Communications. I Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2026 open for entries International Edition – K 2025 21Plast EchoK trade fair sets the direction for the plastics industry What scale will this year’s K trade fair reach – both in terms of exhibitor numbers and international reach? Which re- gions of the world will be particularly visible in the halls of Messe Düsseldorf? By the end of the official registration period in May 2024, it was already clear that all leading companies from the global plastics and rubber sector would be taking part in this premier industry event. Once again, all 18 halls of the Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre, along with the outdoor areas – equivalent to the size of 25 football fields – will be fully occupied. More than 3,100 exhibitors from 63 countries are expected. Europe will be especially well represented at this year’s K, with strong participation from Germany, Italy, Turkey, Aus- tria, as well as the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain. At the same time, K clearly reflects the ongoing shifts in the global market: the number of companies from Asia and the exhibition space they occupy has remained at a consistently high level for years. Particularly impressive participation is expected from China, India, and Taiwan. What innovations will debut at K 2025, and how will they address the key challenges currently facing the plas- tics industry? In these challenging times, K in Düsseldorf once again confirms its status as the world’s leading trade fair for the plastics and rubber industry. It is here that the entire sec- tor comes together to showcase the highest levels of in- novation and expertise. Nowhere else will you find as many world premieres as at K – which is why many exhibitors keep their new technologies and breakthrough solutions under wraps until the show begins. I am confident that the upcoming edition will deliver significant progress in the key areas driving the industry forward. The official motto of K 2025 – “The Power of Plastics! Green – Smart – Responsible” – reflects the 3 core themes shaping the industry today. Sustainability will be the top priority at nearly every exhibi- tor’s stand. Plastics are indispensable across numerous sec- tors of the economy, driving innovation and progress, and their role in building a sustainable future cannot be over- stated. One of the central themes of K 2025 is “creating a circular economy” – a concept that is increasingly defining the industry’s development. Recycling, reuse, and plastic waste reduction are the cornerstones of this transforma- tion. Circularity will also take center stage at the VDMA Forum, located outdoors between Halls 10 and 16. There, VDMA and its member companies will demonstrate how technology can actively support the implementation of cir- cular systems and will create a space for discussion inside the specially designed VDMA Dome. It is also worth highlighting the other 2 guiding themes of K2025, both closely tied to sustainability. The first is digi- talisation – as it enables increased efficiency of machines and products and supports sustainable practices such as material tracking and sorting for re-entry into the value chain. The second is social responsibility – emphasising re- sponsible resource management and environmental care. This includes supporting young talent and creating long- term career perspectives for future generations in the plas- tics and rubber sector. All three of these themes will be reflected in the official special show “Plastics shape the future,” organised by Plas- tics Europe Deutschland in Hall 6. The program will include theme days, expert panels, a Career Day, and a start-up competition – all showcasing visions and tangible techno- logical solutions for the future. What specific changes can we expect at K 2025 compared to the 2022 edition – both for exhibitors and visitors? What kind of new features will we see in the event pro- gram and layout? Naturally, we are building on the proven and successful concept of K 2022, while at the same time enhancing and refining it to meet the current needs of the industry. One Interview with Thomas Franken, Director of K Show K 2025 is not just a trade fair – it’s a benchmark event for the entire plastics industry. Thomas Franken, Director of the event, discusses the key innovations, priorities, and significance of this year’s edition, scheduled to take place from 8 to 15 October in Düsseldorf International Edition – K 2025 23Plast Echoexample is the new approach to the Science Campus, which will make it easier for institutes from around the world to participate. Universities, research institutions, and higher education facilities will present their latest findings on plas- tics science and technology. Following its successful debut in 2022, the Start-up Zone will also be expanded – offering a space where young, innovative companies can showcase their ideas. Notably, for the first time, the Science Campus will be located directly next to the Start-up Zone in Hall 7, creating new synergies between science and business. Rubber Street, the dedicated area for rubber and elasto- mers, will return as well – but with a completely redesigned layout in 2025. This transformation is being carried out in collaboration with the German Rubber Manufacturers As- sociation (wdk) and aims to highlight the innovation poten- tial of the rubber sector. A brand-new feature at K 2025 will be the Young Talents Lounge – a dedicated space for young professionals of- fering interactive presentations of educational programs and career development opportunities. This area is being organised by the German Association for Plastics Proces- sors (GKV). Another first will be a networking event titled “Women in Plastics”, designed specifically for women work- ing in the plastics industry. Does size matter? What makes K – and not the larger Chi- naplas – the event that sets the direction for the plastics industry today? It’s quality that counts, not just quantity. In Düsseldorf, we offer the global plastics and rubber industry the lead- ing trade fair worldwide – the most important platform for information, communication, and business. Exhibitors and visitors from all continents come together here to show- case industry capabilities, discuss current trends, and shape the future. Nowhere else will you see as many machines running live at the same time. Only in Düsseldorf you can experience and compare such a diverse and international range of innova- tions, solutions, and product premieres. K underlines its unique status not just through the immense interest it at- tracts from the global industry, but also through its willing- ness to tackle the most pressing contemporary challenges – especially those facing the plastics sector. It is a benchmark for the entire industry and a global platform for innovation. What has been the most striking transformation or mo- ment that has stayed with you over the years at K? Can you share an example that truly surprised you? One of the most striking transformations I’ve witnessed at K has been its increasing globalisation – a reflection of the dynamic changes within the plastics and rubber indus- try itself. What started as a primarily European-focused event has evolved into a truly global forum, with a steadily growing presence from Asia, where new market leaders are emerging. This shift has not only increased the diversity of exhibitors but also raised the level of innovation and com- petition across the fair. Another transformation that made a deep impression on me is the industry’s growing willingness to confront global challenges. K has always mirrored the heartbeat of the sec- tor, but I was genuinely surprised by how many companies have begun to adopt a proactive approach – taking respon- sibility and offering concrete solutions across the entire value chain. This is particularly evident in the topics addressed by our special shows: until 2013, they focused mainly on techno- logical and economic trends. Since then, they have increas- ingly tackled social and environmental issues. We intro- duced themes such as marine litter, and more recently, the concept of a circular economy. It’s a clear signal that the industry is taking sustainability seriously and recognises its role in building a better future. Witnessing these changes – both geographical and mental – has been incredibly moving. It shows that K is not just a trade fair, but also a platform for transformation and a re- flection of the industry’s growing maturity. What should first-time visitors to K keep in mind? How can they best plan their visit to make the most of this event? First and foremost, it’s important to arrange your ticket and accommodation well in advance. Online ticket sales are already available at www.k-online.de. K is a massive event with an extremely broad thematic scope, so careful planning is essential. The best way to prepare is by visiting www.k-online.com, where you’ll find a full exhibitor data- base, hall plans, a hotel booking tool, and many other use- ful resources. It’s also highly recommended to download the K mobile app, available since May. It’s the perfect companion for K underlines its unique status not just through the immense interest it attracts from the global industry, but also through its willingness to tackle the most pressing contemporary chal- lenges – especially those facing the plastics sector Plast Echo24fot.: Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann your visit – with interactive maps and hall layouts to help you navigate the fairgrounds. With a single tap, you can en- ter a specific hall, zoom in on individual booths, and view detailed exhibitor profiles and product offerings. The full database is fully searchable using a keyword function. We’ve also enhanced our matchmaking tool, FairMatch, which helps both visitors and exhibitors make their par- ticipation at K 2025 even more productive. From August 2025, you’ll be able to use this tool on the K website and in the app to identify relevant business partners and products. The system will suggest the best matches and allow you to schedule meetings in advance. In times of economic uncertainty – with rising costs, regu- latory changes, and global tensions – companies are mak- ing investment decisions with great caution. What makes participation in K especially valuable right now? That’s a very accurate observation. Indeed, in the face of economic slowdown, trade tensions, and increasingly com- plex regulations, many companies are approaching invest- ment decisions with heightened caution. It is precisely in this kind of environment that K takes on even great- er importance. First, K remains the place where the entire sector comes together to gain a concentrated overview of where the industry is heading – both technologically and in terms of market dynamics. This gives businesses not only orienta- tion, but also greater confidence that their investment deci- sions align with current trends and market needs. Second, attending the fair is a unique opportunity for direct engagement – with business partners, suppliers, experts, and even competitors. In uncertain times, building relation- ships and trust becomes more essential than ever. And finally, K is not just an exhibition – it is also a platform for dialogue: a space for sharing knowledge, experience, and inspiration, where the future of the entire industry is actively shaped, especially in the context of digitalisation, sustainability, and global economic challenges. We are cautiously optimistic about the signs of recovery that began to appear in the European economy in the first half of the year – whether in industrial production figures or in the growing interest in innovative solutions. Although uncertainty still shapes the business landscape, more and more companies are once again looking to the future with openness and readiness to act. We hope that by October this positive momentum will have strengthened even fur- ther – and that it will be reflected at K 2025: in the number of conversations held, the quality of relationships formed, and the scale of decisions made. We firmly believe that here in Düsseldorf, many companies will find the spark for their next step forward – be it new investments, technological implementations, or strategic partnerships that will shape the future of plastics process- ing in the years to come. K has always been the place where innovation meets real business – and we are convinced that this will be more evi- dent than ever this year. • International Edition – K 2025 25Plast EchoInnovation has been part of the history of plastics from the very beginning. In the relatively short time since plastics came into wide- spread use, they have revo- lutionised nearly every area of our lives. Drivers now use safer, lighter cars that consume less fuel. Farm- ers have increased yields while using less water and fewer pesticides. Secure packaging has improved food safety and extended shelf life. Patients have benefited from medical breakthroughs once unim- aginable, like a man blind for more than ten years who regained his sight thanks to the world’s first synthetic cornea implant. These are just a few of a long list of examples of how the hard work of sci- entists, chemists, engineers, technologists, design- ers and other experts specialising in narrow fields using plastics has allowed to create innovative in- ventions without which it is hard for us to imagine everyday life today. The innovative DNA of plastics industry Plastics Europe’s main ambition is to build a fully sustainable plastics system in Eu- rope which continues to meet consumer and societal needs, support the transfor- mation of other sectors and remain a strategic resource for the European economy. This path is far from simple, yet our industry has creativity and innovation deeply embedded in its DNA. For decades these qualities have enabled breakthrough dis- coveries and pioneering solutions. K, the largest plastics trade fair in Europe, offers an excellent opportunity to recall this progressive spirit and to appreciate once again the transformative nature of the industry and the material itself Anna Kozera-Szałkowska Managing Director, Plastics Europe Polska Plast Echo26In the 21st century, policymakers, business and so- ciety have become fully aware of the global scale of the challenges connected with economic growth. Climate change and plastic waste have become pressing issues that demand urgent solutions. The European plastics industry is already providing such solutions and is determined to do more. Plastics Europe and its member companies share public concerns about the impact of plastics on climate change and environment pollution, and we rec- ognise the need to support the sustainable use of plastics. We believe that developing a circular econ- omy for plastics, which preserves natural resources, reduces waste, keeps valuable materials in circula- tion through better production, design, reuse and recycling, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions, is the most effective way to address these challenges. This is why the circular and net-zero transition of the plastics industry has become the main focus of our sector’s creativity and innovation. The vision is set out in our 2023 roadmap, The Plastics Transition. It shows that with the right measures, greenhouse gas emissions from the plastics value chain could be reduced by 28% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. It also foresees the gradual replacement of fossil-based plastics, estimating that circular plastics from mechanical and chemical recycling, biobased feedstocks and carbon capture and uti- lisation technologies could meet 25% of European demand by 2030 and 65% by 2050. Making this scenario happen will not be possible without fresh ideas, bold thinking and pioneering technologies, which form the foundation of this transition. Yet circular innovations face major obstacles, with decline of European economy competitiveness on the top. Europe’s share of the global market has been shrinking steadily, and the situation is becoming increasingly difficult. The plastics value chain supports around 1.5 million jobs across more than 50,000 companies in the EU. Plastics, used across almost every sector of industry, are essen- tial to the European economy. When we say that Europe needs a strong and competitive plastics in- dustry, we are at the same time speaking about all the strategic sectors that cannot function without plastics. And without competitiveness innovation becomes difficult. Budgets for research, develop- ment and technological modernisation are shrink- ing. When the priority is survival, extra spending is suspended. The weakening competitiveness of Europe’s plastics industry therefore poses a serious threat to the development of circular innovations and to the goals of sustainable transition. For this reason, although Plastics Europe and its members are strongly committed to the vision of the roadmap, the success of our efforts depends on cooperation across the entire value chain and, above all, on clear political support from the EU and its Member States. Europe needs policy frame- works that truly enable competitiveness. These should include reducing regulatory burdens by simplifying procedures and cutting bureaucracy, especially for permitting low-emission and circu- lar industrial installations. Material neutrality and legal clarity for innovative recycling technologies need to be ensured, as well as level playing field, for example through separate customs codes for imported plastics and increased monitoring and controls at EU borders. Europe must also support investments in circular plastics with economic and financial tools such as tax incentives, and adopt ambitious and binding recycled content targets for plastic packaging before 2030. Finally, we need to modernise and connect the EU’s energy grids and secure access to affordable raw materials to renew and expand Europe’s industrial base. Taking these steps without delay is essential to maintain com- petitiveness, safeguard strategic autonomy, unlock innovative potential and accelerate the circular transition of the plastics industry. Every three years in Düsseldorf, K Fairs offer the chance to witness the results of our industry’s creativity and to rediscover its innovative spirit. In addition to practical innovations, visitors will hope- fully experience something more – the energy, mo- tivation and ambition of our industry to adapt, re- spond to global needs and continuously improve. • Plastics Europe Polska represents plastics producers in Poland. It is the local branch of Plastics Europe: the pan-European associa- tion of plastics manufacturers with offices across Europe. For over 100 years, science and innovation have been the DNA that cuts across our in- dustry. With members producing over 90% of all polymers across EU27+3 (Norway, Switzerland, UK) we are the catalyst for the industry with a responsibility to openly en- gage with stakeholders and deliver solutions which are safe, circular and sustainable. We are committed to implementing long-lasting positive change. International Edition – K 2025 27Plast EchoThe iceberg effect: what lies beneath the crisis in Europe’s plastics recycling sector? The European plastics recycling sector is sliding into one of its deepest crises to date. By the end of 2025, Europe will have lost nearly one million tonnes of recycling capacity since 2023. Alarming figures show that in the first 7 months of 2025 alone, almost as much capacity disappeared as dur- ing the whole of 2024 – and by year’s end, closures will have tripled compared to 2023 With fore- casts point- ing to zero net growth in 2025, Europe’s recycling ca- pacity is at a standstill af- ter years of steady expan- sion. At current pace, Europe risks falling irreversibly behind on its environmental ambitions, as the plas- tic recycling capacity would need to double by 2030 if the recycled content targets are to be achieved. The decrease in Europe’s industrial facilities translates into reduced stra- tegic and resources independence, as well as accumulating difficulty in competing at the global level. Yet the current crisis, alarming as it already is, is the exposed face of a much larger iceberg. Beneath the surface lie far-reaching issues that have been eroding the in- dustry for the last years – an increase in unverified and low-priced imports of recycled plastics, a decrease in the demand for European recyclates, mounting economic pressures, lack of enforcement of existing regulation and excessive red tape. The plastics recycling sector has sounded the alarm time and again, but action has fallen short. Although important pieces of legislation aim at advancing plastics circularity – such as the PPWR, the SUP Directive or the ongoing revision of the ELV Direc- tive – they have failed to address the competitiveness crisis hitting the plas- tics recycling industry. Even legislation designed to safeguard citizens, such as food contact applications of recycled plastics, is left unenforced. I Uncovering the iceberg: the issues fueling Europe’s competitiveness & plastic recycling crisis One of the most pressing challenges currently facing the European plastics recycling value chain is the increase in unverified imports of plastics. Paired with the lack of enforcement mecha- nisms, these imports do not undergo verification to determine whether the material is recycled, and if it is, whether it meetsthe same regulatory requirements as materials produced in Europe. The additional advantage of cheaper production costs in these countries makes it virtually impos- sible to remain competitive for Eu- ropean plastics recyclers, while the non-compliant imported plastics gain a free pass into the Single Market, posing a risk to the environment and consumers. The recent announcement of US tariffs to be imposed on PET imports could lead to an added influx of materials to European markets, coming from South and South-East Asian countries – further exacerbating existing market distortions. Mounting economic pressures – in- cluding some of the highest energy prices worldwide – accrue to the burden for European recyclers. This consequently leaves them at great disadvantage in a global market which is increasingly competitive and fierce. These factors are resulting in market distortions, which are driving down demand for plastic recyclates pro- duced in Europe. The global overca- pacity for polymer production will further aggravate the situation, driving production away from Europe. With oil prices softening, virgin plas- tics have become cheaper, luring con- verters away from recyclates. Buyers are once again turning to fossil-based feedstock, leaving recyclers with un- sold volumes. Besides the external factors, Euro- pean plastics recyclers face mountains of paperwork and lengthy waits to obtain and renew recycling permits. Together with regulatory inconsisten- cies and lack of proper enforcement of existing legislation, these have created a hostile environment for investments. This not only puts at serious risk the millions of euros that have been dedi- cated to advancing circularity and improving recycling practices in the last decades but also obstructs future developments and innovations in the sector, undermining progress towards a circular economy in Europe. I Immediate action needed to reach safe waters Europe’s recyclers are not failing from lack of ambition or technology. They are being outcompeted, undercut, and Ton Emans President of Plastics Recyclers Europe Plast Echo28overregulated in their home market. To steer clear of the collapse of the Eu- ropean plastics recycling sector, action must be swift and coordinated. Reviv- ing demand for recyclates produced in Europe, preventing further closures, and ensuring continued innovation require a comprehensive response. Trade defence tools are essential to shield the sector from non-compliant imports that do not meet the EU’s standards. These must include ro- bust mirror clauses, stronger third- party verification, tariff adjustment mechanisms for recycled plastics and products with recycled content, and reinforced customs controls backed by harmonised penalties and certifica- tion rules. At the same time, European plastics recyclers need urgent access to af- fordable, clean energy and targeted fiscal relief through subsidies and in- centives. Harmonised Extended Pro- ducer Responsibility (EPR) schemes across Member States would contrib- ute to strengthening local sourcing of recyclates and providing stability to the plastics recycling value chain. Tackling raw material price volatility, accelerating and simplifying permit- ting processes, and streamlining re- porting obligations would encourage the much-needed investments in the sector. Enhanced consistency in the imple- mentation and enforcement of exist- ing EU legislation is also vital. Recy- cled content targets contained in key pieces of legislation – such as the PPWR or the SUPD – must be upheld through third-party certification, le- gal clarity, and uniform implementa- tion. Only a transparent, predictable, and fair regulatory environment can de-risk investments, restore com- petitiveness, and allow the European plastics recycling value chain to con- tinue innovating. Plastics recycling is not a niche indus- try. It is a strategic sector for Europe’s autonomy, and a prerequisite for reaching climate and circular economy goals. Europe’s capacity to respond to the current crisis will determine its ability to remain at the forefront of the global transition to a sustain- able future, to regain competitiveness in an increasingly challenging market, and to uphold the values on which its policies are built. With immediate, co- ordinated, and forward-looking action, Europe can successfully navigate this iceberg and enable its plastics recy- cling sector to emerge from the crisis stronger and more resilient.• International Edition – K 2025 29Plast EchoNext >