Europe Processed Meat Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The Europe Processed Meat Market is Segmented by Meat Type (Poultry, Beef, Pork, Mutton, Other Types), by Product Type (Chilled Processed Meat, and More), by Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, and More), by Packaging (Vacuum-Pack, Trays and More) and by Geography (Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD) and Volume (Tonnes).

Europe Processed Meat Market Size and Share

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Europe Processed Meat Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The European processed meat market size stands at USD 38.84 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 43.12 billion by 2030, reflecting a 2.11% CAGR through the period. In Europe, the processed meat market is experiencing slower growth, mirroring a shift in consumer values. Concerns over health, sustainability, and ethics increasingly challenge traditional meat preferences. While pork, with its deep cultural roots, continues to dominate, beef is carving out a niche, especially among those seeking premium, high-protein options. Chilled products are favored for their freshness and convenience, yet frozen items are gaining traction due to their longer shelf life and versatility. Innovations in packaging, particularly vacuum solutions, are on the rise, emphasizing shelf-life, hygiene, and sustainability. These advancements not only cater to consumer demand for longer-lasting products but also address environmental concerns by reducing food waste and incorporating eco-friendly materials. Supermarkets and retail outlets still lead in sales channels, but restaurants and hospitality venues are witnessing a significant rebound, fueled by a resurgence in tourism and a renewed dining-out culture. 

Key Report Takeaways

  • By meat type, pork led with 44.12% of the Europe processed meat market share in 2024, whereas beef is projected to post the quickest 4.65% CAGR during 2025-2030.
  • By product type, chilled items captured 61.21% revenue share in 2024; frozen products are forecast to expand at a 5.62% CAGR to 2030.
  • By packaging, trays held 45.12% of the market in 2024, while vacuum-pack solutions are advancing at a 4.51% CAGR through 2030.
  • By distribution channel, off-trade accounted for 62.20% share of the Europe processed meat market in 2024; on-trade is the fastest-growing segment, rising at 7.21% CAGR.
  • By geography, Germany commanded 24.11% of the market in 2024, whereas Spain is set to grow the quickest at 3.81% CAGR over 2025-2030.

Segment Analysis

By Meat Type: Pork retains leadership, beef gains ground

In 2024, pork solidified its position as the leading segment in Europe's processed meat market, capturing 44.12% of the market share. This dominance is deeply rooted in the strong culinary traditions of countries such as Germany, Spain, and Poland, where pork-based products are a cornerstone of local diets. Products like sausages, ham, and bacon are not only staples in these regions but also enjoy widespread popularity across Europe due to their versatility and flavor.

Meanwhile, the beef segment is undergoing substantial growth, driven by the rising demand for premium and diverse meat options. Products such as premium burgers, pastrami, and bresaola are gaining traction among consumers who seek high-quality and gourmet processed meat offerings. This shift is fueled by changing dietary trends, including the growing preference for protein-rich diets and the increasing popularity of international cuisines that feature beef prominently. The segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.65% through 2030, reflecting its expanding consumer base and the dynamic nature of the European processed meat market. 

Europe Processed Meat Market: Market Share by Meat Type
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Product Type: Chilled dominates, frozen surges

In 2024, chilled offerings emerged as the leading segment in the market, accounting for 61.21% of the market share. Consumers increasingly associate chilled products with freshness and artisanal quality, driving their popularity. This segment includes deli counters, sliced charcuterie, and grab-and-go ham sandwiches, which have become staples in supermarkets. These products cater to the growing consumer demand for convenience and premium options, making them a preferred choice for quick meals and high-quality ingredients. 

The frozen segment, on the other hand, is experiencing significant growth, with a strong CAGR of 5.62%. This growth is primarily driven by advancements in flash-freezing technology, which effectively preserves the texture and quality of frozen products while extending their shelf life. These innovations have made frozen processed meat products highly attractive to budget-conscious consumers seeking cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Furthermore, the extended storage life of frozen products has positioned them as a practical choice for export buyers and households aiming to reduce food waste. 

 

By Packaging: Trays stay in front, vacuum expands

In 2024, trays dominated the European processed meat market, accounting for a significant 45.12% market share. Their widespread adoption can be attributed to their transparency, which enables consumers to quickly and effectively evaluate the color and marbling of processed meat products. This feature is particularly important in building consumer trust and ensuring product quality. Additionally, trays are lightweight, easy to handle, and compatible with various packaging technologies, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers and retailers alike. The growing demand for visually appealing and hygienic packaging solutions further supports the dominance of trays in the market.

Meanwhile, vacuum packs are expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.51% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing focus of both retailers and consumers on reducing food waste and extending the shelf life of processed meat products. Vacuum packaging minimizes oxygen exposure, which helps preserve the freshness and quality of the meat for a longer duration. Furthermore, the rising awareness of sustainable packaging solutions and the need to maintain product integrity during transportation are contributing to the growing adoption of vacuum packs.

Europe Processed Meat Market: Market Share by Packgaing Type
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Distribution Channel: Off-trade commands, on-trade accelerates

In 2024,off-trade channel delivered 62.20% of sales in Europe's processed meat market, highlighting the market's strong dependence on off-trade formats. Big-box retailers actively drive customer traffic by leveraging private labels and offering weekly promotions. Meanwhile, the on-trade segment is expanding at a faster pace, achieving a 7.21% CAGR as tourism rebounds and consumers dine out more frequently. Gastro-pubs and quick-service restaurants increasingly demand labor-saving, precooked options such as bacon, brisket, and tapas meats, which significantly reduce kitchen preparation times and improve operational efficiency.

Online grocery shopping, a trend that gained traction during the pandemic, continues to scale rapidly. This growth is particularly evident in premium products like Iberian ham and organic turkey slices, as customers increasingly value the convenience of doorstep delivery. Producers who supply multipacks for retail and bulk vacuum rolls for chefs are optimizing production processes and effectively managing raw-material risks to meet diverse demands. Convenience stores are boosting profits by offering single-serve snack sticks tailored to busy commuters, while delicatessens remain a key channel for showcasing high-margin artisanal products, appealing to consumers seeking premium quality.

Geography Analysis

Germany, in 2024, secured a dominant 24.11% share of the European processed meat market, establishing itself as a key player in the region. The country's strong foothold can be attributed to its well-established meat processing industry, high domestic consumption, and robust export activities. Germany's focus on innovation in meat processing techniques and the availability of a wide variety of processed meat products have further strengthened its position in the market. Additionally, the country's adherence to stringent quality standards and sustainability practices has enhanced consumer trust and boosted demand for its processed meat products both domestically and internationally.

Spain is set to be the fastest-growing contender in the European processed meat sector, with a projected CAGR of 3.81% through 2030. The growth in Spain is driven by increasing consumer demand for ready-to-eat and convenience food products, coupled with advancements in meat processing technologies. The rising popularity of Spanish processed meat products, such as chorizo and jamón, in international markets has also contributed to this growth. Furthermore, the country's investments in modernizing its meat processing facilities and expanding its export capabilities are expected to sustain its upward trajectory during the forecast period.

The United Kingdom also plays a significant role in the European processed meat market. Despite challenges such as changing consumer preferences and regulatory shifts post-Brexit, the market remains resilient. The demand for processed meat products, particularly sausages and bacon, continues to be strong, supported by a growing inclination toward premium and organic meat options. Italy, known for its rich culinary heritage, contributes significantly to the processed meat market in Europe. The country is renowned for its traditional processed meat products, such as salami and prosciutto, which enjoy high demand both domestically and internationally. Italy's focus on quality and authenticity has helped it maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Competitive Landscape

The European processed meat market holds a moderately fragmented competitive landscape. This score indicates that while a few dominant players hold a significant share of the market, there is still considerable space for regional and local companies to compete effectively. The market features a mix of well-established multinational corporations and smaller, niche players, creating a dynamic environment. The moderate concentration level suggests that no single entity has overwhelming control, allowing for healthy competition and opportunities for new entrants to establish themselves. 

Key players in the market are actively engaging in strategies to maintain or expand their market share. These strategies include product innovation, where companies are introducing new and diverse processed meat products to cater to changing consumer demands, such as healthier options or plant-based alternatives. Pricing strategies also play a critical role, as companies aim to balance affordability with profitability to attract a broader customer base. Additionally, the development of robust distribution networks, including partnerships with retailers and e-commerce platforms, has become a focal point for market players to ensure widespread availability of their products. 

Furthermore, mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are becoming increasingly common as companies seek to consolidate their positions in the market. These activities enable firms to expand their geographic reach, enhance their product portfolios, and achieve economies of scale. The competitive landscape is also shaped by advancements in processing technologies, which allow companies to improve efficiency and product quality. Additionally, the growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing is pushing market players to adopt environmentally friendly practices, further intensifying competition. 

Europe Processed Meat Industry Leaders

  1. WH Group Ltd

  2. JBS S.A.

  3. BRF S.A.

  4. Tyson Foods Inc.

  5. Tönnies Holding GmbH & Co.KG

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Europe Processed Meat Market Concentration
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Recent Industry Developments

  • September 2024: Pilgrim's Pride Corporation acquired Moy Park, a leading supplier of poultry and prepared foods with significant operations in the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. The deal, valued at approximately USD 1.3 billion, was finalized with JBS SA as the seller.
  • October 2023: BioTech Foods, a subsidiary of Brazilian meatpacker JBS, has commenced construction in Spain on its inaugural commercial-scale facility dedicated to lab-grown meat production. Dubbed as the world's largest of its kind, the plant is set to churn out over 1,000 metric tons of cultivated beef annually, with potential plans to scale up to 4,000 metric tons.

Table of Contents for Europe Processed Meat Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Increasing consumer demand for convenient and ready-to-eat meat products drives market growth
    • 4.2.2 Advancements in food processing technologies improve product quality and shelf life
    • 4.2.3 Rising awareness about proteins role in health and fitness supports product demand
    • 4.2.4 Increasing demand for ethnic and flavored processed meat varieties stimulates market innovation
    • 4.2.5 Growing tourism and hospitality sector boosts consumption in foodservice channels
    • 4.2.6 Growing popularity of international cuisines increases demand for diverse processed meat products
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Health Concerns related to high fat, salt, and preservative content limit consumer demand
    • 4.3.2 Increasing shift towards vegetarian and vegan diets restrains market growth
    • 4.3.3 Strict regulations on food safety and additives increase production costs and complexity
    • 4.3.4 Rising raw material costs increase production expenses and affect pricing
  • 4.4 Value and Supply-Chain Analysis
  • 4.5 Regulatory Outlook
  • 4.6 Technological Outlook
  • 4.7 Porter's Five Forces
    • 4.7.1 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.7.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • 4.7.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.7.4 Threat of Substitutes
    • 4.7.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE, VOLUME)

  • 5.1 By Meat Type
    • 5.1.1 Poultry
    • 5.1.2 Beef
    • 5.1.3 Pork
    • 5.1.4 Mutton
    • 5.1.5 Other Types
  • 5.2 By Product Type
    • 5.2.1 Chilled
    • 5.2.2 Frozen
    • 5.2.3 Canned/Preserved
  • 5.3 By Packaging
    • 5.3.1 Vacuum-Pack
    • 5.3.2 Trays
    • 5.3.3 Cartons
    • 5.3.4 Others
  • 5.4 By Distribution Channel
    • 5.4.1 Off-Trade
    • 5.4.1.1 Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
    • 5.4.1.2 Convinience Stores
    • 5.4.1.3 Specialty Stores
    • 5.4.1.4 Online Retail Stores
    • 5.4.1.5 Other Distribution Channels
    • 5.4.2 On-Trade
  • 5.5 By Geography
    • 5.5.1 Germany
    • 5.5.2 United Kingdom
    • 5.5.3 France
    • 5.5.4 Spain
    • 5.5.5 Italy
    • 5.5.6 Denmark
    • 5.5.7 Netherlands
    • 5.5.8 Sweden
    • 5.5.9 Belgium
    • 5.5.10 Russia
    • 5.5.11 Rest of Europe

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Ranking
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global level Overview, Market level overview, Core Segments, Financials as available, Strategic Information, Market Rank/Share, Products & Services, Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 WH Group Limited
    • 6.4.2 JBS S.A.
    • 6.4.3 Tönnies Holding GmbH & Co.KG
    • 6.4.4 Tyson Foods Inc.
    • 6.4.5 BRF S.A.
    • 6.4.6 Vion Food Group B.V.
    • 6.4.7 Hormel Foods Corporation
    • 6.4.8 Conagra Brands, inc.
    • 6.4.9 Plukon Food Group B.V.
    • 6.4.10 Dawn Meats Group
    • 6.4.11 Cranswick plc
    • 6.4.12 Campofrio Food Group
    • 6.4.13 Sysco Corporation
    • 6.4.14 Danish Crown Amba
    • 6.4.15 Cargill Inc.
    • 6.4.16 Seaboard Corporation
    • 6.4.17 Marfrig Global Foods
    • 6.4.18 Groupe Bigard
    • 6.4.19 Cherkizovo Group
    • 6.4.20 LDC S.A.

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

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Europe Processed Meat Market Report Scope

Processed meat is considered to be any meat that has been modified to either improve its taste or extend its shelf life. Meat processing methods include salting, curing, fermentation, smoking, and adding chemical preservatives.

Europe's processed meat market is segmented by type into poultry, beef, pork, mutton, and other types, by product type into chilled processed meat and frozen processed meat, and by distribution channel into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail stores, and other distribution channels. The market is segmented by geography into Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, Russia, and the Rest of Europe. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done based on value (in USD million).

By Meat Type Poultry
Beef
Pork
Mutton
Other Types
By Product Type Chilled
Frozen
Canned/Preserved
By Packaging Vacuum-Pack
Trays
Cartons
Others
By Distribution Channel Off-Trade Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
Convinience Stores
Specialty Stores
Online Retail Stores
Other Distribution Channels
On-Trade
By Geography Germany
United Kingdom
France
Spain
Italy
Denmark
Netherlands
Sweden
Belgium
Russia
Rest of Europe
By Meat Type
Poultry
Beef
Pork
Mutton
Other Types
By Product Type
Chilled
Frozen
Canned/Preserved
By Packaging
Vacuum-Pack
Trays
Cartons
Others
By Distribution Channel
Off-Trade Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
Convinience Stores
Specialty Stores
Online Retail Stores
Other Distribution Channels
On-Trade
By Geography
Germany
United Kingdom
France
Spain
Italy
Denmark
Netherlands
Sweden
Belgium
Russia
Rest of Europe
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the current value of the Europe processed meat market?

The Europe processed meat market size is USD 38.84 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 43.12 billion by 2030.

Which meat type leads sales in Europe?

Pork dominates, accounting for 44.12% of 2024 revenue, though beef is the fastest-growing segment at 4.65% CAGR to 2030.

How are convenience trends influencing product development?

Rising urban lifestyles favor ready-to-eat and portion-controlled formats, driving packaging innovation and boosting chilled and frozen sub-categories.

Why is vacuum packaging gaining traction in Europe?

Vacuum packs cut food waste and can extend shelf life up to 21 days, supporting retailers’ sustainability goals and export logistics.

Page last updated on: July 3, 2025

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