Eu Glass Production On The Up: Increased Glass Capacity

Glass packaging production in the EU rose by 4% during 2007, according to FEVE. During 2007, production exceeded 22M/t an increase that should encourage the industry to continue to invest in new furnaces and upgrades. Turkey & Portugal recorded the highest increases, posting respective rates of 8% and 12%, despite rising competition from other materials. In terms of volume, Germany still leads, producing over 4M/tpa and contributing less than 20% towards the total production of bottles, jars and flasks in the EU. France follows with production of 3.72M/t and then Italy, who produced 3.62M/t. This achievement reflected the growing demand for luxury goods. The UK & Spain ranked fourth and fifth.