The plastics industry in 2026 will be shaped by shifting global pressures, evolving material expectations and a renewed focus on sustainability across nearly every end market.
Demand for post-consumer recycled and post-industrial recycled resins continues to rise in applications that are no longer limited to packaging. Automotive, healthcare, building and construction, electrical and electronics, and other sectors are actively evaluating where recycled content can be incorporated without compromising performance.
But sustainability requirements aren’t the only factor shaping sourcing strategies. Trade dynamics and tariffs remain major considerations, prompting manufacturers to weigh regional origin as carefully as performance requirements. More companies are prioritizing North American sourcing to reduce risk, avoid cost penalties and build greater supply-chain resilience.
Success in 2026 will require agility, material innovation and strategic sourcing across the plastics value chain.
Explore market-specific insights from M. Holland’s plastics experts using the buttons below and get the guidance you need to navigate the year ahead with confidence.
– Peter Prusak, Business Director, Business Development
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