Catalonia’s packaging industry reaches €12.2 billion with 855 companies and a strong global presence

Catalonia’s packaging industry has consolidated its position as one of the region’s most dynamic industrial sectors. According to the report "The packaging sector in Catalonia," prepared by ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment in collaboration with the Packaging Cluster, the sector comprises 855 companies generating a combined turnover of €12.227 billion and employing more than 36,500 professionals.

The study positions Catalonia within the global packaging landscape and analyzes the main technological innovations, structural shifts, and market trends impacting the industry. The sector covers the entire value chain, from packaging design to recycling, ensuring product protection, transport, communication, sustainability, and optimal use.

A strong industrial base with global reach

The report identifies five core segments within the ecosystem: manufacturers of packaging, containers, closures, and labels; machinery producers for packaging and end-of-line processes; raw material and component suppliers; co-packing and handling service providers; and graphic and industrial packaging design companies.

Notably, 70% of companies operate in the packaging and container manufacturing sector, accounting for 70% of total revenue and 71% of employment, highlighting Catalonia’s solid industrial backbone. The industry is also highly internationalized, with 65% of companies acting as regular exporters.

Geographically, 80% of firms are located in the province of Barcelona, with significant concentrations not only in the capital — home to around 90 packaging companies — but also in municipalities such as Terrassa, Barberà del Vallès, and Rubí.

Innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation

Beyond its industrial scale, the packaging sector in Catalonia benefits from a rich innovation ecosystem, including leading technology and research centres, active clusters, and specialized training institutions that strengthen competitiveness across the value chain.

The report points out several global trends reshaping the market: increasing sector concentration, greater demand complexity driven by sustainability and regulatory requirements, and the widespread deployment of artificial intelligence and digital tools.

Together, these factors position Catalonia as an innovative hub for advanced, sustainable, and internationally competitive packaging solutions in Europe.