Europe Composites Market Outlook

According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the Europe composites market attained a value of USD 18.40 billion in 2024. Aided by the increasing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials across diverse end-use industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and renewable energy, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.10% during 2025-2034, reaching an estimated value of USD 30.26 billion by 2034.

Composites, typically composed of a matrix and a reinforcement material, combine two or more distinct substances to achieve superior mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties compared to traditional materials. These materials are extensively used in various industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, design flexibility, and durability. The European composites market is witnessing robust growth as industries increasingly adopt advanced materials to enhance performance, reduce energy consumption, and meet stringent sustainability regulations.

Europe Composites Market Size and Share

Europe represents one of the most significant regional markets for composites globally, supported by the presence of advanced manufacturing infrastructure, a strong industrial base, and growing technological innovation. In 2024, the European composites market accounted for approximately 30% of the global market share, highlighting its strategic importance in the global materials industry.

Among the major end-use sectors, automotive and transportation accounted for the largest Europe composites market share, driven by the need for lightweight components to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Aerospace and defence followed closely, as leading European aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus increasingly utilise carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRP) and glass fibre composites for structural components to enhance strength and reduce weight. Meanwhile, the wind energy sector is emerging as a major growth contributor, as composites play a crucial role in the manufacturing of large wind turbine blades.

Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy remain the key markets in the region, owing to their robust industrial ecosystems and significant R&D investments. Germany, in particular, leads the market due to its strong automotive and engineering sectors, extensive use of carbon fibre composites, and continuous innovation in materials technology.

Europe Composites Market Trends

Several trends are shaping the growth trajectory of the Europe composites market. One of the most prominent trends is the increasing adoption of sustainable and recyclable composites. As Europe leads in climate action and sustainability, manufacturers are shifting toward bio-based and thermoplastic composites to reduce environmental impact and align with the European Green Deal objectives.

Another key trend is the growing use of automation and digitalisation in composite manufacturing. Advanced technologies such as robotic fibre placement, automated lay-up systems, and real-time process monitoring are enhancing production efficiency and precision while reducing material waste.

The expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) market is also fuelling composite demand, as lightweight materials are crucial in extending battery life and vehicle range. Similarly, the renewable energy sector, particularly wind energy, is witnessing an upsurge in composite usage to build larger, more efficient turbine blades that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Furthermore, the integration of composites in infrastructure and construction is gaining traction, as they provide superior corrosion resistance and longer service life compared to conventional materials like steel or concrete. Smart composite materials embedded with sensors for structural health monitoring are also emerging as a significant innovation, enabling predictive maintenance and enhanced safety in critical applications.

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Drivers of Growth

The Europe composites market is being driven by multiple interrelated factors that collectively reinforce its growth outlook:

• Rising Demand for Lightweight Materials:
  The automotive and aerospace industries are increasingly using composites to reduce weight, enhance fuel efficiency, and comply with stringent emissions standards. For instance, composite materials can reduce vehicle weight by up to 30–50% compared to traditional metals, significantly improving performance and energy efficiency.

• Expansion of Renewable Energy Projects:
  The European Union’s ambitious renewable energy goals have spurred the development of wind power projects, creating substantial demand for composites used in wind turbine blades, nacelles, and towers. The increasing size of turbine blades requires materials that can provide superior strength-to-weight ratios, positioning composites as the preferred choice.

• Technological Advancements in Manufacturing:
  Continuous innovation in resin chemistry, fibre technology, and automated production processes has made composite manufacturing more efficient and cost-effective. The adoption of 3D printing and advanced curing technologies has also reduced production time and expanded design possibilities.

• Sustainability Initiatives and Regulations:
  Europe’s strong environmental policies are accelerating the shift toward recyclable and bio-based composites. Manufacturers are developing thermoplastic composites that can be recycled or repurposed, aligning with the circular economy principles promoted by the European Commission.

• Increased Investment in R&D:
  Public and private sector investments in composite research are leading to the development of high-performance materials with improved mechanical and thermal properties, enhancing their applicability across diverse industries.

Europe Composites Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on type, processing method, end use and application.

Breakup by Product

• Carbon Fibre
• Glass Fibre
• Others

Breakup by Resin

• Thermosetting
• Thermoplastic

Breakup by Method of Manufacturing Process

• Layup Process
• Filament Winding Process
• Injection Molding Process
• Pultrusion Process
• Compression Molding Process
• Resin Transfer Molding Process
• Others   

Breakup by Method of End Use

• Automotive and Transportation
• Aerospace and Defence
• Wind Energy
• Electrical and Electronics
• Construction and Infrastructure
• Pipes and Tanks
• Marine   
• Others  

Breakup by Region

• United Kingdom
• Germany
• Italy
• France
• Others

Competitive Landscape

Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

• SGL Carbon SE
• Hexcel Corporation
• Teijin Limited
• Solvay SA
• Gurit Holding AG
• FMC Composites
• Others

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its promising outlook, the Europe composites market faces certain challenges. The high production costs associated with composite materials, particularly carbon fibre, remain a significant barrier to widespread adoption, especially in cost-sensitive sectors. Additionally, complex recycling processes for thermoset composites pose environmental and regulatory challenges.

However, these challenges are accompanied by significant opportunities. The growing emphasis on circular economy initiatives is encouraging the development of recyclable composites and closed-loop recycling systems. The expanding EV and renewable energy markets present lucrative growth avenues for composite manufacturers. Moreover, technological advancements in automation, digitalisation, and sustainable materials are expected to mitigate cost concerns and enhance efficiency.

Europe Composites Market Forecast

Looking ahead, the Europe composites market is poised for steady and sustained growth through 2034. The rising demand from key industries—particularly aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and construction—will continue to be the primary growth drivers. With ongoing research into bio-based resins and recyclable composites, the market will align closely with Europe’s long-term sustainability goals.

The increasing integration of smart technologies, coupled with government support for low-carbon and high-performance materials, will further enhance the competitiveness of European manufacturers. As a result, the market is projected to reach USD 30.26 billion by 2034, reflecting a robust and resilient growth trajectory.

Overall, the Europe composites market is set to play a critical role in advancing material innovation, supporting industrial transformation, and driving sustainability in the coming decade.