The plastics and rubber industry is gearing up for a pivotal edition of the K trade fair, taking place from 8–15 October in Düsseldorf.
At a panel session during the K 2025 Preview press conference attended by international media, including PKN, leading industry figures outlined the pressing challenges facing the sector, the potential for recovery and innovation, and what visitors can expect from the upcoming show.
Skillfully led by moderator Chris Brow, panellists included Petra Cullmann, executive director of Messe Düsseldorf; Dr Christine Bunte of Plastics Europe; Boris Engelhardt from the German Rubber Industry Association (wdk); Thorsten Kühmann of the VDMA and EUROMAP; Dr Oliver Möllenstädt from German converters’ association GKV; and Ulrich Reifenhäuser, chairman of the K 2025 Exhibitors’ Committee.
'The Power of Plastics'
Opening the discussion, panellists reflected on this year’s K Show motto, ‘The Power of Plastics’, describing the material’s unmatched functionality, low carbon footprint, and crucial role in enabling modern life – from renewable energy to healthcare. Dr Christine Bunte emphasised plastics’ ability to reinvent itself at key inflection points, and said the industry is now shifting to alternative feedstocks and circular business models.
Petra Cullmann reinforced the dynamic nature of the sector, highlighting plastics as one of the most innovative industries Messe Düsseldorf supports across all trade shows. Reifenhäuser stressed that despite growing public scrutiny, plastics remain the “premium material” due to its performance, light weight, and recyclability.
A global hub amid uncertainty
K 2025 will welcome over 3200 exhibitors from 64 countries, fully occupying the 18 halls and 178,000sqm of exhibition space. Cullmann described the event as a “lighthouse for the industry” during times of heightened global uncertainty and trade tensions. Preparations have been in full swing since the last edition concluded, and international engagement has remained strong despite geopolitical and economic headwinds.
Ulrich Reifenhäuser underlined the significance of the event as a truly global platform, with more than 70% of exhibitors coming from outside Germany – a critical point given increasing protectionist trends in global trade.
Signs of recovery and persistent hurdles
Following two years of contraction for the plastics industry, panellists shared cautious optimism about market recovery in 2025. Orders and production volumes are beginning to pick up, but significant concerns remain.
Thorsten Kühmann reported 11 consecutive quarters of downturn in plastics and rubber machinery orders, with a modest 5% uptick in Q1 2025. However, uncertainty over tariffs and delayed investment decisions, particularly in the US, are impeding momentum. Dr Oliver Möllenstädt echoed this, pointing to energy costs and overregulation as major burdens for small and medium-sized enterprises in the converting sector.
Dr Bunte noted that Europe's global share of plastics production has dropped from 22% in 2006 to just 12% today, with structural challenges including high energy prices and legislative complexity dampening competitiveness.
However, she also observed a shift in the tone of policymaking in Brussels, with growing recognition that industry must be part of the solution. The European Commission’s current work programme is expected to deliver more industry-friendly conditions, including reduced bureaucratic burden and clearer rules on recycling.
Special showcases at K 2025
K 2025 will present several dedicated areas to explore key themes: recycling, sustainability, digitalisation, and skills development. Dr Bunte previewed the Plastics Europe-led ‘Plastics Shape the Future’ special show, featuring seven theme days, from “Circular Thursday” to “Visionary Tuesday”. The space will include startup pitches, a Science Slam, and an exhibition designed with recycled materials.
The VDMA, representing machinery manufacturers, will run a 4000sqm outdoor forum showcasing live machinery, sustainable applications, and digital integration. Engaging young talent is also a core priority, with podium talks and participation from students and early-career professionals.
For the first time, GKV will launch a Young Talents Lounge in Hall 8A, spotlighting education and career pathways in plastics converting. Möllenstädt stressed the importance of attracting new talent, with more than 400,000 jobs supported in Germany alone.
The rubber sector will also be well represented via the popular Rubber Street feature, where 19 exhibitors will showcase the entire elastomer value chain, including circular economy initiatives.
A platform for collaboration and innovation
Petra Cullmann encouraged visitors to plan their trips carefully, noting the vast scale of the event – equivalent to 25 football fields. Tools such as the K app, exhibitor database, and matchmaking services have been updated to streamline the visitor experience.
Reifenhäuser closed the session by noting K’s unique role as a three-year R&D cycle catalyst for the industry. “After every K, companies return with benchmarks, inspiration and urgency. This drives innovations in energy efficiency, material reduction, and now increasingly, artificial intelligence,” he said.
In a year marked by geopolitical tension, industrial restructuring, and pressing climate targets, K 2025 is poised to be more than just a trade fair – it will be a statement of direction for the global plastics and rubber industries.
