PRSE 2025 Post Show Report by the BPF

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) participated as an exhibitor at the Plastics Recycling Show Europe (PRSE) 2025, (April 1st – 2nd) at the RAI Exhibition Centre in Amsterdam. This premier recycling event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to address the pressing challenges and opportunities within the European, UK and Global plastics recycling sector. With over 13,000 attendees, there really is no other plastic recycling show quite like it[1].

Networking and Collaborative Solutions

PRSE 2025 served as a vital platform for networking and collaboration. The event featured over 500 exhibitors and attracted thousands of professionals from across the globe. Attendees engaged in discussions on enhancing recycling technologies, improving waste management systems, and aligning with evolving regulatory frameworks.

For the BPF, the exhibition provided an opportunity to showcase its recycling membership , where all recyclers are now proudly displayed via new stand posters. The BPF also emphasised the importance of harmonised regulations between the EU and UK to ensure no more future trade barriers. Additionally all relevant enquiries taken at the show are then shared with membership.

Addressing Market Challenges

The focus topic of the show was the current market conditions for EU plastic recyclers. The European and UK plastics recycling industry is currently grappling with significant challenges. The production of EU mechanical recycled post-consumer has seen drop of 7.8% due to reduced demand and increased competition from cheaper global materials[2]. This continued market downturn has led to the closure of several recycling plants across the EU and UK.

The BPF recognises these challenges and is committed to supporting its members through its advocacy work. Recently the BPF Recycling Group published a briefing document on the market conditions ahead of roundtable it had with various government departments[3]. By participating in PRSE 2025, the BPF aimed to foster dialogue among its EU stakeholders and ensure a sustainable future for the plastics recycling industry.

As the industry faces ongoing challenges, the BPF believes that collaboration and shared knowledge are essential to overcoming obstacles and achieving a circular economy. The insights gained from PRSE 2025 will inform the BPF's ongoing efforts to support its members and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient plastics recycling sector. Finally a massive congratulations to Matt Barber and the team for putting on such a great show!

[1] https://www.plasticsrecyclers.eu/news/plastics-recycling-show-europe-draws-over-13000-attendees-for-first-time-in-its-nine-year-history/

[2] https://plasticseurope.org/media/falling-eu-competitiveness-threatens-circular-plastics-transition/#:~:text=Compared%20to%202022%2C%20total%20EU,7.8%25%2C%20reaching%207.1%20Mt.

[3] https://www.bpf.co.uk/article/bpf-briefing-document-uk-plastic-recycling-market-conditions-3719.aspx