Extrusion blow moulding is moving through a phase of steady optimisation, shaped by shifting material choices, efficiency pressures and changing end-use requirements across global packaging markets.
At Chinaplas 2026 in Shanghai, Eco-plastics in Packaging spoke to Michael Mehnert, managing partner of Bekum, about how these dynamics are influencing both technology development and demand.
Bekum is a long-established manufacturer of extrusion blow moulding machines, supplying equipment to customers in around 200 countries worldwide. Mehnert described an industry now focused less on breakthrough innovation and more on incremental gains, including energy efficiency, cycle times, cooling performance and process control, alongside greater use of recycled materials.
Shifting demand across formats
He also pointed to shifting demand across packaging formats, with PET continuing to expand in many applications and blow moulded packaging remaining relevant in segments such as household and personal care. Smaller pack sizes, greater variation and more differentiated products are increasing pressure on flexibility and changeover performance.
Wider industry pressures such as economic uncertainty and cautious investment are also influencing decision making, alongside the growing role of automation and digitalisation in improving efficiency and reducing operational complexity.
Watch the full video interview to hear his full outlook on automation, recycling and the future direction of extrusion blow moulding.
