The plastic manufacturing industry in DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) plays a pivotal role in producing a wide variety of plastic products utilized across several sectors, including automotive, packaging, and healthcare. Companies in this space engage in innovative practices to develop sustainable solutions, emphasizing recycling and eco-friendly materials. As global demand surges for reduced plastic waste and alternative materials, the industry is adapting by integrating advanced technologies, like 3D printing and bioplastics. Notably, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on circular economy principles to minimize environmental impact, making DACH a hub for forward-thinking plastic manufacturing.


This list showcases a mix of investors active in the DACH region's plastic manufacturing space, ranging from corporate giants to venture capital firms. Headquartered in cities like Zurich, Hanover, and Frankfurt, these investors vary in size, from multinational corporations to nimble PE firms. Founded between 1864 and 2021, they contribute to innovation and growth, with deal counts in 2024 showcasing their active engagement. With a total of 38 deals between them, these investors underscore their commitment to enhancing the plastic manufacturing landscape and sustainability initiatives.


Top 16 Plastic Manufacturing Investors in DACH


1. Brenntag

  • Website: brenntag.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: brenntag

Brenntag SE, founded in 1874 and based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a leading global chemical distributor that connects chemical manufacturers and users. The company serves approximately 195,000 customers across various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, oil & gas, and potentially plastics, by simplifying access to complex supply chains. In recent years, Brenntag has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market presence and capabilities. Notable transactions include the acquisition of ALTIVIA Corporation for $125 million, which expanded their chemical distribution capabilities, and a joint venture with Raj Petro Specialities Pvt. Ltd. to strengthen their footprint in the Indian chemical market. Additionally, Brenntag acquired the chemical distribution business of Desbro Group in Kenya and the UAE, further solidifying their global reach. These transactions indicate Brenntag's commitment to enhancing its distribution network, which may include materials relevant to plastic manufacturing.


2. Amcor

  • Website: amcor.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1864
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: amcor

Amcor is a corporate investor based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 1864. As a leading packaging manufacturer, Amcor specializes in providing innovative and responsible packaging solutions across various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The company is committed to sustainability, with a goal to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025. Amcor has been actively involved in the plastic manufacturing sector, as evidenced by its acquisitions of companies like Nampak Flexible in 2015 and Phoenix Flexibles in 2023, which enhance its capabilities in flexible packaging. Additionally, Amcor Ventures participated in a funding round for PulPac, a company focused on replacing single-use plastics, further showcasing its commitment to sustainable practices within the plastic manufacturing industry.


3. BASF Venture Capital

  • Website: basf.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF Venture Capital, founded in 2001 and based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is the corporate venture capital arm of BASF, one of the world's largest chemical manufacturers. The firm focuses on investing in innovative companies that align with BASF's commitment to sustainability and product performance across various industries. Notably, BASF Venture Capital has participated in significant transactions relevant to the plastic manufacturing sector, such as DePoly, which raised $13.8 million to scale a chemical recycling process that converts plastics into raw materials without compromising quality. Additionally, they have invested in FRX Innovations, a company that produces environmentally friendly flame retardant plastics, showcasing their dedication to advancing sustainable solutions in the plastics industry. Through these investments, BASF Venture Capital aims to support innovations that address environmental challenges while enhancing the performance of plastic products.


4. Blue Horizon

  • Website: bluehorizon.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: bluehorizoncorp

Blue Horizon is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, dedicated to supporting sustainable food systems and the bioeconomy. The firm provides funding and resources to mission-aligned founders, particularly in the areas of alternative proteins and sustainable practices. Notably, Blue Horizon has invested in Tipa, an Israel-based company specializing in compostable flexible packaging solutions, which raised $25 million in a Series C funding round led by Blue Horizon. This investment highlights their interest in sustainable packaging alternatives to traditional plastics. Additionally, Blue Horizon has participated in funding rounds for other innovative companies like Polybion and Cubiq Foods, focusing on sustainable solutions in the food sector. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their investment strategy, which seeks to create impactful change in the food and packaging industries.


5. Capvis AG

  • Website: capvis.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: capvis

Capvis AG is a private equity firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1990. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including healthcare and industrial technology. Capvis partners with institutional investors, such as pension funds, to provide long-term capital and strategic growth opportunities. The firm focuses on enhancing the market position of its portfolio companies through effective management and consulting. Notably, Capvis has been involved in several relevant transactions, including the acquisition of Hennecke Group in 2016, a leading manufacturer of polyurethane machinery, which plays a significant role in the plastic manufacturing industry. Additionally, Capvis acquired Polytec Holding, which is also relevant to the plastics sector, further demonstrating their engagement in this field. Their strategic investments indicate a commitment to supporting growth in industries related to plastic manufacturing.


6. Deutsche Beteiligungs AG

  • Website: dbag.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1965
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-beteiligungs-ag

Deutsche Beteiligungs AG is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1965. The firm specializes in investments in mid-sized companies, providing capital and advisory services to enhance their growth potential. With over 55 years of experience, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG has developed a successful fund advisory business. Among their notable transactions, they acquired Coperion, a company that specializes in the manufacturing of equipment and systems for the plastics and polymer processing industries, for $408 million in 2007. Additionally, they acquired FRIMO Group, which focuses on manufacturing solutions for the plastics industry, through a management buy-out in 2016. These transactions highlight their involvement in the plastic manufacturing sector, alongside their broader investment strategy that includes telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare.


7. Basf

  • Website: basf.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 1865
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF SE, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is a leading multinational chemical manufacturer. The company provides a diverse range of products and solutions across various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and construction, with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. In the context of plastic manufacturing, BASF has been involved in several significant transactions. Notably, the acquisition of Lati's U.S. business enhances its capabilities in producing specialized plastic materials. Additionally, BASF's acquisition of ITWC, Inc., which specializes in cast elastomer polyurethane systems and polyester polyols, further demonstrates its commitment to expanding its portfolio in the plastics sector. These strategic moves highlight BASF's active engagement in the plastic manufacturing industry, making it a relevant investor in this field.


8. Hannover Finanz

  • Website: hannoverfinanz.de
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: hannoverfinanz

Hannover Finanz is a private equity firm based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in providing equity capital to medium-sized family businesses in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, focusing on sustainable growth through strategic investments and consulting services. Hannover Finanz has been involved in several notable transactions, including the acquisition of RADO Gummi in 2005, a company that operates in the rubber and plastic sector. Additionally, they acquired Koller-Gruppe in 2015 and MOESCHTER GROUP GmbH in 2016, both of which may have relevance to the plastic manufacturing industry. Their investment strategy emphasizes helping businesses navigate challenges related to succession, growth, and restructuring, which can be particularly beneficial for companies in the plastic manufacturing sector.


9. Possible Ventures

  • Website: possible.ventures
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: possible-vc

Possible Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm focuses on innovative investment opportunities across various sectors. One of their notable transactions includes participation in the seed round for ULUU, an Australian company dedicated to developing alternatives to traditional plastics, which raised $8 million in November 2022. This investment highlights Possible Ventures' commitment to supporting sustainable solutions in the plastic industry. Additionally, they have been involved in other transactions such as FLO.materials and Epoch Biodesign, although these are less directly related to plastic manufacturing. Overall, Possible Ventures is positioned as a forward-thinking investor with a growing portfolio that includes significant interest in the plastics sector.


10. Borealis

  • Website: borealisgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: borealis

Borealis AG is a prominent Austrian plastics manufacturer founded in 1994, headquartered in Vienna, Austria. The company specializes in polyolefins and base chemicals, serving various industries including energy, healthcare, and consumer products. Borealis is dedicated to providing innovative and sustainable solutions, with a strong commitment to advancing a circular economy and minimizing environmental impact. In recent years, Borealis has made significant strides in the plastic manufacturing sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in June 2023, they announced the acquisition of Rialti S.p.A., a leading European producer of recycled polypropylene compounds. In 2016, they fully acquired mtm plastics GmbH and mtm compact GmbH, both of which are involved in plastics recycling. Additionally, in July 2018, Borealis acquired 100% of shares in Ecoplast Kunststoffrecycling GmbH, further solidifying their position in the recycling segment of the plastics industry. These transactions highlight Borealis's active engagement in enhancing their capabilities within the plastic manufacturing landscape, particularly in sustainable practices.


11. ALPLA Group

  • Website: alpla.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hard, Vorarlberg, Austria
  • Founded year: 1955
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: alpla

ALPLA Group is a corporate investor based in Hard, Vorarlberg, Austria, founded in 1955. The company specializes in innovative plastic packaging solutions and serves a diverse range of industries, including food, beverage, beauty care, and pharmaceuticals. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, ALPLA operates globally and emphasizes sustainability and customer satisfaction in its operations. Notably, ALPLA has made significant investments in the plastic manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of Romanian PET preform manufacturer Star East Pet in 2017 to enhance production capacities in Eastern Europe. In 2021, they acquired Wolf Plastics Group to strengthen their product portfolio in Central and South-Eastern Europe. Additionally, in 2022, ALPLA acquired Texplast, a major PET bottle recycler in Germany, further solidifying their position in the recycling and sustainable packaging market. These transactions highlight ALPLA's active role in the plastic manufacturing industry and its commitment to expanding its capabilities and sustainability efforts.


12. eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS


eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS is a venture capital firm based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investing in technology companies across various sectors, including cleantech, software, and cybersecurity. eCAPITAL provides early to growth stage funding and strategic support to startups, helping them navigate challenges and achieve growth. Notably, eCAPITAL has made investments in companies relevant to the plastic manufacturing industry, such as amynova polymers, which raised $2,528,400 in a venture round in 2017, and Saperatec, which specializes in recycling high-tech composite materials. Their investment in Creapaper, a company focused on sustainable paper products, also aligns with their interest in innovative materials. These transactions highlight eCAPITAL's engagement in the plastic and recycling sectors, demonstrating their potential relevance to the plastic manufacturing industry.


13. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative investment strategies and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group acquired Dynacast International, a company involved in precision manufacturing, which may include plastic components, and Alltub Group, a significant player in the plastic packaging industry. Additionally, they have made strategic acquisitions in other sectors, such as Ammeraal Beltech, a conveyor belt manufacturer, and Velvet CARE, a manufacturer of hygiene paper products, showcasing their diverse investment portfolio while still maintaining a foothold in the manufacturing sector that encompasses plastics.


14. AM Ventures


AM Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Starnberg, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investments in additive manufacturing technologies, particularly in the industrial 3D printing sector. They provide funding and strategic guidance to startups and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and growth in this rapidly evolving industry. Notably, AM Ventures has invested in several companies relevant to plastic manufacturing, including Lean Plastics Technologies, which focuses on efficient plastic production methods, and DyeMansion, which specializes in post-processing solutions for 3D printed plastic parts. Their portfolio also includes Elementum 3D and Cubicure, both of which are involved in advanced materials and processes that can enhance plastic manufacturing capabilities. In 2024, they continued their investment strategy by supporting Fortius Metals, further emphasizing their commitment to innovative manufacturing technologies.


15. capiton

  • Website: capiton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: capiton

Capiton AG is a private equity firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic expertise to medium-sized companies in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, focusing on growth financing, management buy-outs, and restructuring services. While capiton primarily targets sectors such as High-Tech Industrials and Healthcare & Lifescience, they have made significant investments in the plastic manufacturing industry. Notably, they acquired Kautex Maschinenbau, a key player in the plastic manufacturing sector, in 2013, which highlights their engagement in this field. Additionally, capiton has invested in companies like Poli-Tape and Nora systems, which, while not exclusively plastic manufacturers, are involved in related industries. Their diverse portfolio and strategic approach to enhancing operational capabilities position them as a noteworthy investor in the plastic manufacturing landscape.


16. Evonik Venture Capital

  • Website: venturing.evonik.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Hanau, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: evonik

Evonik Venture Capital is a corporate venture capital unit of Evonik Industries, founded in 2012 and based in Hanau, Hesse, Germany. The firm specializes in investments in innovative start-ups within the specialty chemicals sector, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovative technologies. Evonik Venture Capital provides financial support, mentorship, and access to a broad network of industry experts to help start-ups grow and succeed. Notably, they have participated in significant funding rounds for companies like FRX Innovations, which focuses on environmentally friendly flame retardant plastics, and Strohm, a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic composite pipes. These investments highlight Evonik's commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the plastic manufacturing industry.



Plastic Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
BrenntagEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18748
AmcorZurich, Zurich, Switzerland10001+18640
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
Blue HorizonZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020162
Capvis AGBaar, Zug, Switzerland11-5019900
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
BasfLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+18651
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
Possible VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-1020219
BorealisVienna, Vienna, Austria5001-1000019940
ALPLA GroupHard, Vorarlberg, Austria10001+19552
eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERSNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-5019992
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
AM VenturesStarnberg, Bavaria, Germany1-1020153
capitonBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5019990
Evonik Venture CapitalHanau, Hesse, Germany11-5020123


Want to find more investors focusing on the plastic manufacturing industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the plastic manufacturingindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!