After a decade of continuous growth, German manufacturers of machinery for meat and alternative protein processing faced a stagnant 2024. However, the industry remains optimistic about IFFA 2025
German manufacturers of machinery for processing of meat and alternative proteins could not record renewed growth in 2024 after a ten-year upward trend. However, the industry remains optimistic about IFFA 2025, the world’s leading trade fair, set to take place in Frankfurt from May 3-8, 2025. Stakeholders expect the event to provide much-needed momentum in a dynamic global market.
Modest Growth in Food Processing Machinery Despite Sectoral Downturn
Preliminary data from the Federal Statistical Office shows that German production of food processing and packaging machinery grew by 3% in 2024, reaching nearly €17 billion. This defies the broader mechanical engineering sector’s projected 8% production decline, making food machinery the fifth-largest segment in mechanical engineering. According to the VDMA, packaging machines account for approximately half of this production value.

Within the food machinery sector, process technology for meat and protein industries stands out as the largest sub-sector, having seen consistent growth over the last decade. “Between 2014 and 2023, the production of meat processing machines in Germany increased by almost 40%, reaching €1.4 billion,” said Klaus Schröter, Chairman of the IFFA Advisory Board. However, 2024 has not maintained this upward trend, with production expected to decline by around 5%, attributed to rising energy prices, higher interest rates, and general investment uncertainty.
European Exports Witness Decline Amid High Comparisons
European exports of meat processing machinery fell by 6.5% in the first eight months of 2024 compared to 2023’s high benchmark. While late-year deliveries are expected to temper this decline, the record levels of 2023 will likely remain unmatched. German exports alone increased by 6% in 2023 to €730 million, with investments in automation and modernization being particularly strong in the U.S. and several European countries. These investments addressed labor shortages and stringent production safety standards.

Global Export Trends: European Leadership and China’s Rise
In 2023, global foreign trade in meat processing machinery reached a record €2.7 billion, with the EU-27 accounting for nearly 80% of exports. Germany led with a 27% share, followed by the Netherlands (21%). China, with its growing presence, ranked third with a 9% share, outpacing Italy (7%) and the U.S. (5%).
Key sales markets in 2023 included the U.S., Russia, Germany, and several European and Asian nations. Strong demand also emerged from regions like Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Schröter noted the pivotal role of industrialized nations while highlighting Asia and other emerging markets as critical growth drivers.

Market Prospects: Dynamics and Growth Opportunities
Despite short-term setbacks, Schröter expressed confidence in the supplier industry’s future. Global sales of meat and alternative proteins continue to rise, albeit with regional variations. While meat consumption in Western Europe and North America is stable or slightly declining, alternative protein markets in these regions are expanding rapidly, albeit from a smaller base. According to Euromonitor International, global meat product sales are projected to grow by 8% and plant-based alternatives by 25% through 2028.
Several factors shape the market landscape: demographic shifts, evolving consumer habits, shorter product life cycles, and increasing demand for food safety, quality, and sustainability. These trends, combined with competitive pressures, ensure ongoing technological investment.
Role of Digitalization and AI in Sustainability
Sustainability remains a key focus for customers. Efficient use of resources, waste reduction, water conservation, and recyclable packaging are critical considerations. Digitalization plays a central role in achieving these goals, as process data evaluation can enhance efficiency, minimize production downtime, and enable remote services.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integral to sustainable production. AI-driven analysis of real-time data detects anomalies, reduces unplanned downtimes, and optimizes processes like contamination detection and adaptive cleaning. Additionally, AI and digital twin simulations support complex investment decisions, boosting investment security.
IFFA 2025: A Platform for Innovation
As the industry looks to the future, IFFA 2025 promises to serve as a pivotal platform for innovation and collaboration. “We are excited to see the international supplier industry showcase a range of innovations and to engage in discussions about trends and requirements with global visitors,” Schröter stated.
The fair will spotlight technological advancements and address the evolving demands of the global meat and protein processing industry. Against the backdrop of a dynamic market environment, IFFA 2025 is poised to reinforce optimism and drive progress for German manufacturers and the wider sector.
About VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association
The Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association is one of the largest of a total of 38 business sectors in the VDMA and represents a very heterogeneous industry: its approximately 320 member companies are manufacturers of bakery machines, meat and protein processing technology, beverage production machines, dairy technology, confectionery machines, machines and systems for the processing of plant-based raw materials, packaging machines and machines and systems for the manufacturing of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. The predominantly medium-sized companies account for over 80 percent of the sector’s turnover.
Photo: Sausage filling and cutting-/hanging lines, Courtesy: Messe Frankfurt GmbH /Pietro Sutera
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