PUBLISHER: Orion Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1845542
PUBLISHER: Orion Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1845542
European Additive Manufacturing & Material Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Material Type (Plastic, Metal, Ceramics, Others) by End-User (Aerospace & Defense, Healthcare, Automotive, Education & Research, Others), Forecast Period (2025-2035)
Industry Overview
European additive manufacturing & material market was valued at $5.0 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $40.9 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 21.0% during the forecast period (2025-2035). The European additive manufacturing and material market is witnessing steady expansion, supported by strong industrial adoption and advanced research infrastructure. Increased investments in digital manufacturing are promoting large-scale deployment of 3D printing systems across key sectors. Companies are emphasizing sustainability through recyclable and lightweight materials, reducing overall production waste. Government-led initiatives in countries like Germany, France, and the UK are further strengthening the ecosystem. Continuous technological refinement and collaboration between manufacturers and research institutions are also driving consistent growth across the region.
Market Dynamics
Expansion of Metal Additive Manufacturing Capabilities
The European additive manufacturing & material market is witnessing strong growth in metal-based 3D printing technologies, driven by increasing industrial adoption in high-performance applications. Companies such as EOS GmbH are developing advanced metal powder solutions and printers to support precision engineering needs. The surge in demand from the automotive and aerospace industries for lightweight components is fostering continuous material innovation. Enhanced process efficiency and repeatability are also attracting medium-sized manufacturers to integrate additive processes. This trend signifies Europe's transition towards smarter, localized production systems.
Rising Demand for Sustainable Printing Materials
Sustainability has grown a defining focus for additive manufacturing in Europe, with a growing preference for eco-friendly polymers and recyclable materials. BASF Forward AM is contributing to this trend by introducing bio-based and high-performance materials suitable for industrial-grade applications. The push towards reducing waste and improving circular economy practices is influencing material development strategies. European Union initiatives supporting greener manufacturing are further propelling market adoption. This movement reflects the region's commitment to combining technological progress with environmental responsibility.
Market Segmentation
Plastic Segment to Lead the Market with the Largest Share
Plastic-based additive manufacturing remains a dominant segment in Europe, supported by demand for cost-efficient prototyping and lightweight components. Stratasys Ltd. and Ultimaker B.V. are advancing polymer printing solutions that cater to both industrial and educational applications. Their focus on high-performance thermoplastics has enabled industries to achieve improved strength-to-weight ratios. The growing use of recycled and bio-based polymers aligns with Europe's sustainability goals. These advancements are reinforcing the region's position as a hub for material innovation in additive manufacturing.
Aerospace & Defence: A Key Segment in Market Growth
The aerospace and defense industries are key contributors to Europe's additive manufacturing growth, leveraging the technology for precision and efficiency. Companies such as EOS GmbH and Safran Additive Manufacturing are supplying advanced metal and composite solutions tailored for critical aircraft components. The ability to reduce part-time weight while maintaining structural integrity has significantly improved operational performance. European aerospace firms are also integrating additive techniques into maintenance and repair workflows. Such innovations are strengthening supply chains and reducing lead times for defense manufacturing.
European additive manufacturing & material market is further divided by countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, and the Rest of Europe.
Germany Dominates the Market with Major Share
Germany stands out as a leading market for additive manufacturing in Europe, driven by its strong engineering base and industrial innovation. Firms like SLM Solutions Group AG and Trumpf GmbH + Co. KG are pioneering advancements in laser-based metal printing technologies. Their systems are widely adopted in automotive, healthcare, and tool applications. The country's emphasis on precision manufacturing and automation supports rapid technological diffusion. With ongoing collaborations between manufacturers and research institutes, Germany continues to set benchmarks for additive material development and deployment.
The major companies operating in the European additive manufacturing & material market include BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH (Forward AM), EOS GmbH (Electro Optical Systems), Materialise NV, Renishaw plc, SLM Solutions Group AG, among others. Market players are leveraging partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisition strategies for business expansion and innovative product development to maintain their market positioning.
Recent Developments