European aerosol production remained stable in 2024, with total reported fillings reaching 5.2 billion units, according to new figures from the European Aerosol Association (FEA).
The United Kingdom, Germany and France accounted for more than 55% of the continent’s total output across all product categories. Together with Italy, the Netherlands and Spain, these six countries produced over 4 billion aerosol dispensers during the year.
Aerosol containers continue to be manufactured predominantly from steel and aluminium, while glass and plastic remain marginal materials. Cosmetics and personal care products represented the majority of demand, making up 56.4% of European output, followed by household products at 19.4%, and other categories at 24.2%.
In terms of category, personal care remained the leader with 56.4% of aerosols filled. Next was the other category, at 24.2%; followed by household at 19.4%.
Despite this resilience in volumes, the FEA leadership highlighted the wider challenges facing the industry.
In a joint statement, Urs Hauser, FEA President, and Alain D’haese, Secretary General, noted that the 2023–2024 period had been difficult for European manufacturers, with industrial production hampered by weak demand and the lowest capacity utilisation levels seen in a decade (excluding the Covid period).
They pointed to modest signs of recovery, with EU GDP expected to grow 1.2% in 2024 and inflation forecast to ease towards 2.0% in 2025, supported by higher private consumption and investment. However, geopolitical uncertainty – including the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East – continues to weigh on the sector.
Hauser and D’haese also warned of the scale of environmental and regulatory challenges, including the implementation of new EU legislation and the upcoming review of the REACH Regulation. They stressed that the industry must remain united and adaptable to navigate this “multi-crisis” period.
Despite the pressures, the FEA leaders highlighted the resilience of cosmetics aerosols in particular, which are showing early signs of recovery. They reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to supporting members through expertise, collaboration and shared knowledge to ensure the long-term strength of the sector.
European aerosol production steady at 5.2 billion units in 2024
