The plastic packaging industry in Europe consists of numerous companies that design and produce a wide range of packaging solutions, including flexible and rigid packaging, often focused on enhancing usability and reducing waste. This industry serves various sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods, with significant emphasis on sustainability. As environmental concerns grow, many European firms are shifting towards innovative materials and recycling techniques to minimize plastic waste. Forecasted growth in e-commerce and a rising demand for sustainable packaging alternatives indicate where the industry's future is heading, promoting a healthier environment while meeting consumer needs.


The investors in this listing include venture capital firms, private equity groups, and corporate investors, primarily headquartered in key finance hubs such as London, Stockholm, and Paris. Most investors have formed since the late 20th century and typically vary in size from small companies to large institutions, handling an array of committed investments; in 2024, these investors collectively accounted for 415 deals across the plastic packaging sector. Their strategies range from funding start-ups to acquiring established firms, spanning various threshold investments to incentivize innovation in packaging solutions.


Top 19 Plastic Packaging Investors in Europe


1. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. In recent transactions, the EIC has been involved in funding companies like Paptic, a Finnish packaging company that focuses on sustainable packaging solutions. Paptic received both grant funding and equity investment from the EIC, highlighting the council's commitment to fostering innovation in the packaging sector. Additionally, the EIC has supported other innovative companies through grants, such as IonKraft and RAIKU, which further demonstrates its role in promoting technological advancements that can impact various industries, including plastic packaging. The EIC's funding initiatives, which combine grants and equity investments, are designed to accelerate the growth of innovative companies, making it a significant player in the landscape of investors interested in sustainable packaging solutions.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the plastic packaging industry, such as its investment in Coqli, a start-up specializing in custom cardboard packaging, and Lactips, which raised significant funding for its innovative packaging solutions. These investments highlight Bpifrance's commitment to supporting companies that contribute to advancements in the packaging sector.


3. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a crowdfunding platform based in London, England, founded in 2010. It enables businesses, particularly startups and SMEs, to raise capital through equity investments by connecting them with potential investors. The platform emphasizes promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the plastic packaging industry, including Flexi-Hex, which raised over $1 million in 2023 and focuses on sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, they have supported other companies like Aeropowder, which also aligns with sustainability in packaging. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's active role in facilitating investments in the plastic packaging sector.


4. Bunzl UK and Ireland

  • Website: bunzl.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1854
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: bunzl

Bunzl UK and Ireland, a corporate investor based in London, England, is a distribution and outsourcing company founded in 1854. The company specializes in providing essential items necessary for businesses to operate, with a focus on tailored solutions across various industries. In recent years, Bunzl has expanded its footprint in the plastic packaging sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in July 2024, Bunzl acquired Sistemas De Embalaje Anper, a distributor of industrial packaging in Spain, and Holland Packaging, which specializes in customized packaging products in the Netherlands. These acquisitions, along with previous ones like Tecnopacking and Meier Verpackungen, highlight Bunzl's commitment to enhancing its operations in the packaging industry, making it a significant player in the plastic packaging market.


5. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses through tailored financial solutions and guidance. In recent years, Almi has participated in several transactions that are relevant to the plastic packaging industry. For example, they backed GAIA BioMaterials in a funding round aimed at expanding its global network, which may include applications in sustainable packaging. They also invested in Biofiber Tech Sweden, which focuses on developing bio-based materials, potentially applicable in the packaging sector. These transactions highlight Almi's engagement with innovative companies that could influence the future of plastic packaging.


6. 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 packaging manufacturer, Amcor specializes in innovative and responsible packaging solutions for various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The company has made significant investments in the plastic packaging sector, including the acquisition of Nampak Flexible in 2015 for $22 million, which bolstered their flexible packaging capabilities. In 2016, Amcor acquired Sonoco, further expanding their market presence. More recently, in 2023, Amcor signed a definitive agreement to acquire Moda Systems, a New Zealand-based manufacturer of automated protein packaging machines, enhancing their end-to-end packaging solutions for the meat, poultry, and dairy industries. Additionally, Amcor has participated in funding rounds for companies like ePac Flexible Packaging and Nfinite Nanotech, indicating their active engagement in the plastic packaging landscape. Amcor's commitment to sustainability, aiming to make all products recyclable or reusable by 2025, positions them as a forward-thinking investor in the plastic packaging industry.


7. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm founded in 1994, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant strides in the plastic packaging industry, particularly through their acquisition of Færch Plast A/S in February 2014, which is recognized as a market leader in rigid plastic packaging solutions. This acquisition highlights EQT's commitment to investing in companies that are pivotal in the plastic packaging sector. Additionally, their involvement with GPA Global and other companies further demonstrates their active participation in the broader packaging and materials market.


8. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC has made significant investments in the plastic packaging sector, including the acquisition of AR Packaging, which reported sales of approximately €560 million in 2015, highlighting their commitment to this industry. Additionally, their involvement with Elopak, a company known for its packaging solutions, further emphasizes their engagement in the plastic packaging market. CVC's diverse investment portfolio, while spanning various sectors, includes key players in the plastic packaging industry, reinforcing their relevance in this space.


9. Crédit Mutuel Equity


Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic support to businesses, helping them grow and transform by integrating economic and ESG considerations into their strategies. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in companies relevant to the plastic packaging industry, such as Emballages RÉUNIS, which focuses on packaging solutions, and Serac, Inc., known for its expertise in packaging technology. These investments highlight Crédit Mutuel Equity's engagement in the plastic packaging sector, alongside their broader investment strategy that spans various industries.


10. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1996, based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions, Ardian provides tailored investment strategies to institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds, focusing on high-quality private market investments. The firm has a global presence and emphasizes sustainable finance to create lasting value for its clients. Among its notable transactions, Ardian acquired Revere Plastics Systems, a leading U.S. plastic injection molding manufacturer, showcasing their investment in the plastic sector. Additionally, Ardian's acquisition of a minority stake in Nutripack Ecocup, a company specializing in food packaging, further highlights their engagement in the plastic packaging industry. These strategic investments reflect Ardian's commitment to diversifying their portfolio while actively participating in the plastic packaging market.


11. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has made significant investments in the plastic packaging sector, including the acquisition of a majority stake in Weener Plastic Packaging Group for €250 million in 2015, aimed at accelerating the company's growth through further acquisitions and expansion. Additionally, 3i's investment in Geka, a packaging manufacturer for the cosmetic industry, highlights their involvement in the broader packaging market. These transactions illustrate 3i's commitment to the plastic packaging industry and its potential for future growth.


12. Indutrade Life Science

  • Website: indutrade.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 14
  • LinkedIn: indutrade-life-science

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of an industrial group that focuses on developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various sectors, including technology and industrial products. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from the group's resources. Notably, Indutrade has made significant acquisitions in the plastic packaging sector, including Verbeeck Packaging NV in 2014 and PRP-Plastic Oy, Modul Plastic Oy in 2006. These transactions highlight Indutrade's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the plastic packaging industry, making it a relevant player in this market.


13. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg that provides financial services, including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services, to support sustainable projects across various sectors. Founded in 1958, the EIB aims to promote growth and job creation through its funding initiatives. In recent years, the EIB has been involved in notable transactions within the plastic packaging context, such as a EUR 435 million loan to Stora Enso to support its investment in renewable, fiber-based consumer packaging board at its Oulu mill in Finland. This project is expected to enhance sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, the EIB participated in a €40 million Series B funding round for Packhelp, a custom and sustainable packaging marketplace, which aims to develop new sustainable products and expand operations in Europe. These transactions reflect the EIB's commitment to financing projects that align with sustainable practices in the packaging industry.


14. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. They focus on tech startups that address global challenges, particularly in sectors like climate-tech and ocean-tech. Katapult provides investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship to early-stage companies. Notably, they have invested in Better Packaging Co., which raised $5 million in a Series A funding round to expand its sustainable packaging solutions globally. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for other innovative companies, such as Fortuna Cools, which creates sustainable products, showcasing their commitment to supporting environmentally friendly initiatives.


15. Mutares Benelux

  • Website: mutares.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: mutares-benelux

Mutares Benelux, a private equity firm founded in 2021 and based in Amsterdam, specializes in acquiring and managing companies in transition. The firm provides operational support and consulting services to enhance profitability and growth across various sectors, including automotive, technology, and retail. Notably, Mutares has made strategic acquisitions that reflect its diverse investment approach. Among these, the acquisition of MoldTecs from MANN+HUMMEL Group stands out, as it involves high-performance plastic parts, which are integral to the plastic packaging industry. This acquisition is expected to generate significant revenues and demonstrates Mutares' commitment to expanding its footprint in the plastic sector. Other transactions, such as the acquisitions of Sonoco Paper France and La Rochette Cartonboard, while not directly related to plastic packaging, indicate Mutares' broader interest in materials and manufacturing sectors, further supporting its operational capabilities in related industries.


16. EIT Food

  • Website: eitfood.eu
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 37
  • LinkedIn: eit-food

EIT Food is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2016, based in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium. It aims to transform the food system through innovation, education, and entrepreneurship, supporting agrifood startups and entrepreneurs with resources, funding opportunities, and educational programs. In 2024, EIT Food has been involved in several transactions that highlight their commitment to sustainable packaging solutions. Notably, they participated in a Series A funding round for Notpla, which raised over $26 million to develop biodegradable packaging alternatives. Additionally, they provided grants to Pack2Earth and MarinaTex, both of which are focused on creating sustainable materials that can replace traditional plastic packaging. These initiatives demonstrate EIT Food's engagement with the plastic packaging sector, aligning with their mission to foster healthier and more sustainable food solutions.


17. Equistone Partners Europe


Equistone Partners Europe is a private equity investment firm based in London, UK, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in management buyouts and growth capital for mid-market companies across Europe, partnering with management teams to provide capital and strategic support aimed at long-term growth and impressive returns for their investors. Notably, Equistone has been involved in several transactions relevant to the plastic packaging industry, including the acquisition of Ratioform Verpackungen GmbH in 2006, a company that specializes in packaging solutions. This acquisition highlights their engagement in the packaging sector. Additionally, they acquired Allied Glass Containers in 2010 and Safic Alcan in 2022, further demonstrating their active role in sectors that may intersect with packaging and materials. Their diverse portfolio and strategic approach position them as a significant player in the investment landscape, with potential relevance to the plastic packaging market.


18. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, dedicated to fostering economic development in Scotland. With a workforce of 1001-5000, it provides a variety of services, including funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. The organization plays a crucial role in enhancing Scotland's economic landscape by assisting businesses in their growth and operational improvements. Notably, Scottish Enterprise has participated in several funding rounds for companies like CelluComp, which focuses on sustainable materials, indicating its interest in sectors that intersect with plastic packaging. In 2016, it contributed to a £3.7 million funding round for CelluComp, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative companies that may offer sustainable solutions in the packaging space. Additionally, its recent involvement in funding QuickBlock further demonstrates its active role in supporting businesses that could potentially impact the plastic packaging industry.


19. Macfarlane Packaging


Macfarlane Packaging is a corporate investor based in Coventry, England, founded in 1949. As a packaging supplier, they offer a diverse range of protective packaging products and services to businesses across the UK, Ireland, and Continental Europe. Their product offerings include cardboard boxes, bags, postal products, and custom packaging solutions, all aimed at enhancing product protection during transit and storage. The company serves various industries, including retail and manufacturing, with a focus on cost reduction and sustainability in packaging. Notably, Macfarlane Packaging has been active in expanding its portfolio through acquisitions, including Leyland Packaging in 2019, Carters Packaging in 2021, and GWP Group in 2021, which may involve plastic packaging solutions. These strategic acquisitions indicate their commitment to enhancing their packaging distribution capabilities and potentially increasing their involvement in the plastic packaging sector.



Plastic Packaging Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Bunzl UK and IrelandLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500018545
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
AmcorZurich, Zurich, Switzerland10001+18640
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Crédit Mutuel EquityParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019882
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Indutrade Life ScienceStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000197814
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
Mutares BeneluxAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands51-200202116
EIT FoodLeuven, Flanders, Belgium51-200201637
Equistone Partners EuropeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019791
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155
Macfarlane PackagingCoventry, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019490


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

If you want to find more investors that are active in the plastic packagingindustry, 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!