Alfa Laval, Tetra Pak, SPX FLOW and Krones launch European coalition to drive food manufacturing innovation

A coalition of four major players in the food manufacturing equipment sector – Alfa Laval, Krones, SPX FLOW, and Tetra Pak – has officially launched Food Manufacturing Technologies Europe (FMTE), a new industry body designed to unify the sector and enhance its influence in shaping Europe’s future food systems.

Announced on 21 May in Brussels, FMTE positions itself as a much-needed response to the fragmented landscape of Europe’s food manufacturing technology and equipment industry. While the region is a strong contributor to a global market expected to reach €118.4 billion (approximately US$128.8 billion) by 2030, the sector currently lacks a coordinated platform to support its strategic development, particularly in policymaking, sustainability, and innovation.

In a joint statement from the newly formed FMTE Board, comprising senior executives from the four founding companies, the members outlined the rationale behind the move: “We united to create a platform that gives us a stronger collective voice in shaping Europe’s future food manufacturing technologies landscape. In these crucial times for the industry, where delivering tangible impact is more important than ever, we aim to drive innovation in food manufacturing technologies, promote sustainability, and ensure a more influential role in Europe’s competitive food industry.”

Charles Brand, Executive Vice President of Processing Solutions & Equipment at Tetra Pak, serves as President of FMTE. He is joined on the board by Simon Phillips, President of Nutrition & Health Solutions at SPX FLOW; Sammy Hulpiau, President of the Food & Water Division at Alfa Laval; and Bülent Bayraktar, Head of the Business Unit Process Technology at Krones.

Together, the companies say they want FMTE to serve as both a hub for collaboration and a conduit for sector-wide representation. The organization brings together manufacturers of machinery, digital solutions, and other equipment used throughout food and beverage processing, handling, and storage. FMTE is open to businesses of all sizes, from small and mid-sized enterprises to multinational corporations.

The coalition is built around three key objectives. First, to strengthen sector resilience and competitiveness by encouraging collaboration, sharing best practices, and aligning with European Union priorities. Second, to accelerate sustainability and innovation by promoting technologies that reduce waste, increase energy and water efficiency, and support the EU’s broader climate ambitions. And third, to champion the sector’s interests in the policymaking process by contributing practical insights and expertise.

Although the five largest food manufacturing equipment producers in the EU and EFTA held only 15 percent of the global market share in 2023, according to a report by LP Information, the sector continues to be a global leader in technology and efficiency. FMTE aims to leverage that position by working closely with EU policymakers and regulators to shape frameworks that are conducive to growth and innovation.

"By promoting innovation, sustainability, and regulatory alignment, FMTE aims to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and help shape the future of a resilient, high-performing food system," the coalition said in its launch statement.

In addition to serving as an industry voice in Brussels, FMTE intends to facilitate collaboration between member companies and researchers, providing a platform for sharing data and insights to better inform product development and regulatory strategies.

FMTE is actively inviting new members to join the coalition and participate in its mission. The group also welcomes engagement from policymakers, academic institutions, and sector experts who are committed to advancing Europe’s food manufacturing capabilities.

Further details about membership and coalition activities are available on the FMTE website and via its LinkedIn page.

(Main picture shows FMTE Board (Left to right): Simon Phillips – President, Nutrition & Health Solutions, SPX FLOW; Sammy Hulpiau – President Food & Water Division, Alfa Laval; Charles Brand – EVP Processing Solutions & Equipment, Tetra Pak (President, FMTE); Bülent Bayraktar – Head of Business Unit Process Technology, Krones)