Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market
Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market by Chemistry (Acrylic, Rubber, Silicone), Technology (Water-Based, Solvent-Based, Hot-Melt), Application (Tapes, Labels, Graphics), End-Use Industry (Packaging, Automotive), and Country - Forecast to 2030
OVERVIEW
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
The market for pressure sensitive adhesives in Europe is seeing consistent growth, which is mainly fueled by various industries such as packaging, construction, automotive, healthcare, and electronics. The market is supported by the strong manufacturing base in countries such as Germany, France, Italy, the UK, and Spain. Europe's market trend has been altered by stringent environmental laws, favoring low-VOC and eco-friendly adhesive solutions. Major players have been investing heavily in advanced formulations, including acrylic, silicone, and water-based products. Furthermore, renovation activities, weight reduction using PSAs, and their increased application in tapes, labels, and graphic fields are all contributing to the positive outlook for the market until 2030.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
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BY CHEMISTRYThe acrylic segment is projected to be the fastest-growing chemistry in the overall pressure sensitive adhesives market in Europe with a CAGR of 3.05%, in terms of value, between 2025 and 2030.
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BY APPLICATIONThe graphics application is projected to register the highest CAGR of 2.64%, in terms of value, during the forecast period.
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BY END-USE INDUSTRYThe medical & healthcare industry is projected to register the highest CAGR of 2.56%, in terms of value, during the forecast period.
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BY COUNTRYGermany dominates the Europe's pressure sensitive adhesives market in 2025, accounting for a market share of 17.57%, in terms of value.
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COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE - KEY PLAYERSArkema S.A., Henkel AG & Co., KGaA, Scapa Group PLC, and Wacker Chemie AG are identified as key players in the Europe pressure sensitive adhesives market. These companies have strong market presence and extensive product portfolios.
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COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE - STARTUPSRepsol–Acteco Advanced Materials and Plantics BV are among the emerging players that have carved out solid positions within specialized niche segments, highlighting their potential to evolve into future market leaders.
The Europe market for pressure sensitive adhesives shows the characteristics of a mature market. Sustainability, performance, and regulatory compliance are the three main factors influencing the market. Environmental regulations are prompting manufacturers to produce adhesives that are less harmful to the environment. However, end-use industries are seeking adhesives that provide reliable bonding, are efficient, and allow for design flexibility. The market is characterized by strong demand from sectors such as packaging, tapes, graphics, healthcare, and industrial applications. With continuous innovation in acrylic and silicone chemistries, as well as the increasing use of environmentally friendly materials, Europe is expected to be a major region for both technological advancements and new value-driven growth in the pressure-sensitive adhesive industry.
TRENDS & DISRUPTIONS IMPACTING CUSTOMERS' CUSTOMERS
The customers' businesses in the market for pressure sensitive adhesives are influenced by the quick transitions towards sustainability, conformity with regulations, and innovation in materials. The stricter chemical and environmental regulations implemented by the EU are forcing customers to shift from solvent-based adhesives to water-based, low-VOC, and recyclable solutions, which, in turn, affect the product design and procurement strategies. Moreover, the demand for lightweight materials, digital printing, and customized packaging is contributing to the need for high-performance and specialty PSAs. Disruptions in customer operations caused by supply chain volatility, rising raw material costs, and pressure to support circular economy goals are leading to an increase in collaborations with adhesive suppliers and the use of next-generation PSA technologies.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
MARKET DYNAMICS
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Stringent environmental regulations promoting low-VOC and sustainable adhesives
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Strong demand from packaging, construction, automotive, and industrial applications
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Volatility in raw material prices and supply availability
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Higher cost of sustainable and specialty PSA formulations
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Growing demand for sustainable, recyclable, and bio-based PSAs
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Expansion of graphics, medical, and specialty tape applications
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Balancing sustainability requirements with high-performance expectations
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Technical complexity and long qualification cycles for end-use applications
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Driver: Stringent environmental regulations promoting low-VOC and sustainable adhesives
One significant factor contributing to the pressure sensitive adhesives market is Europe’s strict environmental and chemical regulations, such as REACH and other general sustainability policies. The regulations not only put a cap on the usage of solvent-based and high-emission materials but also drive both manufacturers and end users to adopt water-based, low-VOC, and bio-based PSA formulations. This has led to faster innovation and demand for replacement in packaging, labels, tapes, and construction applications. Customers are increasingly seeking suppliers that can offer eco-friendly PSA solutions, thereby enabling the market to grow steadily and long-term demand to remain stable.
Restraint: Volatility in raw material prices and supply availability
The volatility in the costs of main raw materials, which include acrylic monomers, tackifiers, resins, and specialty additives, is a major restraint in the market. The prices of these materials are often tied to petrochemical feedstocks or energy-intensive production processes, and thus, are very sensitive to geopolitical tensions, energy prices, and supply-chain disruptions. For adhesive makers, this price fluctuation means that they are undergoing a squeeze on margins and are also facing uncertainty in the pricing of their products, while customers could either postpone buying or change suppliers. Small players are the most impacted since they do not have the ability to absorb cost increases like the large, integrated manufacturers.
Opportunity: Growing demand for sustainable, recyclable, and bio-based PSAs
The increasing focus on sustainability is a major opportunity for players in the Europe pressure sensitive adhesives market. Manufacturers and converters are increasingly seeking adhesive solutions that are recyclable, compostable, and bio-based to meet the circular economy targets. This results in considerable demand for developing acrylics, natural polymers, and hybrid PSA technologies that not only maintain their performance but also reduce their environmental impact. Suppliers of adhesives that can offer certified sustainable products without compromising on adhesion, durability, or process efficiency will have a competitive advantage in the market.
Challenge: Balancing sustainability requirements with high-performance expectations
The major challenge for players in Europe's PSA market is striking a balance between sustainability and performance. End-use industries seek adhesives that can bond extremely well, withstand high temperatures, last for extended periods, and be reliable. They also prioritize low emissions, recyclability, and compliance with regulations. Manufacturers are developing formulations that satisfy both criteria. However, this typically results in higher R&D costs, more complex material selection, and extended testing cycles. It is even more challenging in the automotive, electronics, and healthcare sectors, where performance requirements are extremely high, and product failure risks are also high.
EUROPE PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVES MARKET: COMMERCIAL USE CASES ACROSS INDUSTRIES
| COMPANY | USE CASE DESCRIPTION | BENEFITS |
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Uses pressure-sensitive adhesives for packaging labels, seals, and tapes, ensuring secure branding, traceability, and food-safe compliance | Enables efficient packaging, strong adhesion, regulatory compliance, high-speed labeling, improved shelf appeal, and compatibility with recyclable packaging formats |
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Applies PSA tapes for interior assembly, wire harnessing, surface protection, and lightweight bonding in automotive manufacturing processes | Reduces vehicle weight, improves assembly efficiency, enhances noise reduction, supports automation, and replaces mechanical fasteners in complex designs |
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Uses PSAs in electronics, insulation tapes, component labeling, and equipment assembly across industrial and electrical applications | Provides reliable bonding, electrical insulation, temperature resistance, process efficiency, and long-term performance under demanding industrial conditions |
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET ECOSYSTEM
The ecosystem of pressure sensitive adhesives in Europe is well-connected. It consists of suppliers of raw materials, producers of adhesives, distributors, and various end users. The main players in the chemical industry, starting from end users, supply the basic components for PSA formulations, namely acrylic monomers, silicones, tackifiers, and specialty additives. Adhesive manufacturers and specialized formulators are positioned in the middle; they utilize these inputs to create both commodity and high-performance PSA solutions tailored for various applications. Distributors play a crucial role in connecting the supply chain, maintaining availability in the area, providing technical support, and delivering goods as needed, especially in fragmented markets. On the other hand, users of the product from different industries like packaging, tapes, labels, graphics, healthcare, construction, automotive, and electronics not only keep the demand going but also become a very important source for the innovation of the products since their requirements regarding sustainability, performance, and regulatory compliance are always increasing.
Logos and trademarks shown above are the property of their respective owners. Their use here is for informational and illustrative purposes only.
MARKET SEGMENTS
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market, By Technology
Hot-melt technology is the second largest segment of the pressure-sensitive adhesives market in Europe because of its low cost, quick processing, and excellent initial tack. Hot-melt PSAs are used in many different areas, including packaging, tapes, labels, hygiene, and industrial applications, where very fast production and instant bonding are crucial. Their no solvent feature helps to be aligned with the strict environmental rules in Europe, and at the same time, continuous polymer formulation improvements have increased heat resistance and adhesion with no compromise. The constant demand for an efficient manufacturing process and recyclable packaging has been one of the main reasons why the use of hot-melt pressure-sensitive adhesives is growing steadily throughout the region.
Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market, By Application
In Europe, the labels segment holds the second largest market share in the application segment for pressure-sensitive adhesives. The major reason for this trend is the huge demand from the food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care, logistics, and other various sectors. PSA labels have become a major necessity for the region's top-tier packaging sector in terms of product identification, branding, traceability, and compliance with regulations. Furthermore, the retail, e-commerce, and pharmaceutical packaging industries all demand labeling that is high-quality, durable, and tamper-evident, which consequently helps to increase the market. The trend of sustainable packaging has also been responsible for bringing in the use of recyclable and wash-off label adhesives. All the above stated reasons contribute to the strong and clear conclusion that labels constitute a significant portion of the PSA market in Europe.
Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market, By End-use Industry
The packaging segment of the Europe pressure-sensitive adhesives market has the largest share, which is mainly attributable to the adoption of PSA-based labels, tapes, and flexible packaging solutions in large quantities. The consistent consumption of pressure-sensitive adhesives across the region is driven by the strong demand from food and beverage, pharmaceutical, personal care, and consumer goods packaging. PSAs provide high-speed labeling, secure sealing, and attractive branding, thus; they have become indispensable for modern packaging operations. Besides, the rapid growth of e-commerce and logistics has resulted in an increase in the adoption of carton-sealing and specialty packaging tapes. The transition towards sustainable and recyclable packaging materials is also a reason for the increased use of water-based and low-VOC pressure-sensitive adhesives in Europe.
REGION
Germany accounted for the largest share in Europe pressure sensitive adhesives market in 2024
Germany is the largest market for pressure sensitive adhesives in Europe. This is mainly attributed to its robust industrial base and excellence in manufacturing, engineering, and innovation. The country boasts a highly developed automotive, packaging, electronics, and construction industries that are the main consumers of PSA-based tapes, labels, and specialty adhesive solutions. Alongside the adhesive manufacturing and raw material supply giants, Germany boasts an advanced R&D infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce. Moreover, the combination of stringent environmental regulations and a considerable emphasis on eco-friendly materials has led to the quicker adoption of water-based and low-VOC pressure-sensitive adhesives in the country, further strengthening Germany's position as a market leader in Europe.
EUROPE PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVES MARKET: COMPANY EVALUATION MATRIX
In the Europe pressure sensitive adhesives market, Henkel AG & CO. KGaA is placed in the star category due to its strong market position, wide PSA portfolio, large manufacturing footprint, and ongoing activities for innovative and sustainable products. Scapa Group PLC is classified as an emerging leader, backed by its increasing participation in specialty pressure sensitive adhesives, especially in healthcare and industrial applications.
Source: Secondary Research, Interviews with Experts, MarketsandMarkets Analysis
KEY MARKET PLAYERS
MARKET SCOPE
| REPORT METRIC | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Market Size Value in 2024 | USD 3.07 Billion |
| Revenue Forecast in 2030 | USD 3.50 Billion |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 2.05% from 2025 to 2030 |
| Years Considered | 2021–2030 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025–2030 |
| Units Considered | Volume (Kiloton), Value (USD Million) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Segments Covered |
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| Regional Scope | Europe |
WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU: EUROPE PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVES MARKET REPORT CONTENT GUIDE
DELIVERED CUSTOMIZATIONS
We have successfully delivered the following deep-dive customizations:
| CLIENT REQUEST | CUSTOMIZATION DELIVERED | VALUE ADDS |
|---|---|---|
| Europe-specific market and regulatory understanding | In-depth regional analysis covering EU regulations, sustainability trends, and key demand drivers | Enables informed strategic planning and regulatory-compliant decision-making |
| Identification of high-growth segments and applications | Detailed segmentation by chemistry, technology, application, end-use industry, and country with growth insights | Helps prioritize investments and focus on the most attractive market opportunities |
| Competitive landscape and company positioning | Competitive benchmarking and company evaluation matrix for key European players | Strengthens market positioning, competitor monitoring, and go-to-market strategies |
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
- February 2024 : Loctite 4011S, introduced by Henkel AG & Co., achieves handling strength on most substrates in seconds and forms a robust bond across various materials. Following exposure to 248°F (120°Celsius) heat for multiple hours, these next-generation adhesives exhibit approximately 100% greater shear strength on steel than other instant adhesive formulations.
- October 2021 : WACKER, the Munich-based chemical company, acquired a 60 percent stake in SICO Performance Material Co., Ltd., located in Jining, China. The agreement, signed by WACKER and SICO, marks a strategic move to expand WACKER's silicone business globally.
Table of Contents
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Methodology
The study involved four major activities in estimating the current size of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market. Exhaustive secondary research was done to collect information on the market, peer market, and parent market. The next step was to validate these findings, assumptions, and sizing with industry experts across the value chain through primary research. Both top-down and bottom-up approaches were employed to estimate the complete market size. After that, market breakdown and data triangulation were used to estimate the market size of segments and subsegments.
Secondary Research
Secondary sources referred to for this research study include financial statements of companies offering europe pressure sensitive adhesives information from various trade, business, and professional associations. The secondary data was collected and analyzed to arrive at the overall size of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market, which was validated by primary respondents.
Primary Research
Extensive primary research was conducted after obtaining information regarding the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market scenario through secondary research. Several primary interviews were conducted with market experts from both, the demand and supply sides across major countries of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South America. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, emails, and telephonic interview. The primary sources from the supply side included various industry experts, such as Chief X Officers (CXOs), Vice Presidents (VPs), Directors, from business development, marketing, product development/innovation teams, and related key executives from europe pressure sensitive adhesives vendors; raw material suppliers; distributors; and key opinion leaders. Primary interviews were conducted to gather insights such as market statistics, data of revenue collected from the products and services, market breakdowns, market size estimations, market forecasting, and data triangulation. Primary research also helped in understanding the various trends related to chemistry, technology, application, end use industry, and region. Stakeholders from the demand side, such as CIOs, CTOs, and CSOs, and installation teams of the customer/end users who are using europe pressure sensitive adhesives were interviewed to understand the buyer’s perspective on the suppliers, products, component providers, and their current usage of europe pressure sensitive adhesives and future outlook of their business which will affect the overall market.
To know about the assumptions considered for the study, download the pdf brochure
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COMPANY NAME |
DESIGNATION |
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3M |
Director |
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Illinois Tool Works |
Project Manager |
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H.B. Fuller Company |
Individual Industry Expert |
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Wacker Chemie AG |
Project Manager |
Market Size Estimation
The research methodology used to estimate the size of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market includes the following details. The market sizing of the market was undertaken from the demand side. The market was upsized based on procurements and modernizations in the end-use industries at a regional level. Such procurements provide information on the demand aspects of europe pressure sensitive adhesives.
Data Triangulation
After arriving at the overall size from the market size estimation process explained above, the total market was split into several segments and subsegments. The data triangulation and market breakdown procedures explained below were implemented, wherever applicable, to complete the overall market engineering process and arrive at the exact statistics for various market segments and subsegments. The data was triangulated by studying various factors and trends from the demand and supply sides. Along with this, the market size was validated using both the top-down and bottom-up approaches.
Market Definition
According to the Adhesive and Sealant Council, “Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs) are adhesives with special formulations that form a bond on the application of slight pressure, and which remain tacky at room temperature without solvent or heat. These adhesives offer various properties, such as peel strength, cohesive strength, adhesive strength, shear resistance, and resistance to aging, chemicals, and humidity.
Key Stakeholders
- End User
- Raw Material Suppliers
- Senior Management
- Procurement Department
Report Objectives
- To define, describe, segment, and forecast the size of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market based on chemistry, technology, application, end use industry, and region.
- To forecast the market size of segments with respect to various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa, along with major countries in each region
- To identify and analyze key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the growth of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market
- To analyze technological advancements and product launches in the market
- To strategically analyze micro markets, with respect to their growth trends, prospects, and their contribution to the market
- To identify financial positions, key products, and key developments of leading companies in the market
- To provide a detailed competitive landscape of the market, along with market share analysis
- To provide a comprehensive analysis of business and corporate strategies adopted by the key players in the market
- To strategically profile key players in the market and comprehensively analyze their core competencies
Available Customizations
MarketsandMarkets offers the following customizations for this market report:
- Additional country-level analysis of the europe pressure sensitive adhesives market
- Profiling of additional market players (up to 5)
Product Analysis
- Product matrix, which provides a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of each company in the europe pressure sensitive adhesives Market
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Growth opportunities and latent adjacency in Europe Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market