Domestic deliveries within Europe rose by nearly 11 per cent, while exports saw an approximate 18 per cent increase. The export surge is partly attributed to anticipatory effects stemming from current trade policies, especially in the Americas. Concerns over potential cost increases from impending aluminium foil tariffs may have prompted many American companies to ramp up their stockpiles. This robust performance contrasts sharply with the first quarter of 2024, when total deliveries stood at 217,800 tonnes, reflecting a 6.2% decline from the year 2023.
Thinner aluminium foils, primarily used in flexible packaging and household applications, exhibited strong performance with nearly 14 per cent growth. Deliveries of thicker foils, utilised in technical applications and industrial use, increased by almost 8 per cent. However, ongoing weaknesses in the construction and automotive sectors slightly tempered growth in this segment.
Restocking activities played a role, as many customers increased inventories at the beginning of the year. Despite uncertain economic conditions, resilient consumer demand in end markets supported the overall positive trend.
Reflecting on the industry's performance, Guido Aufdemkamp, Managing Director of EAFA, stated, "The industry is very satisfied with the start to the year." He emphasised, "The European aluminium foil industry remains agile in these uncertain and challenging times and is helping its customers to best manage market conditions. Even though we expect some slowdown in growth towards the end of the year, we assess the current market situation as stable."
