September 2025
The European paints & coatings market size is calculated at USD 38.66 billion in 2024, grew to USD 39.99 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach around USD 54.27 billion by 2034. The market is expanding at a CAGR of 3.45% between 2025 and 2034. Growing product demand from the automotive and construction sectors is the key factor driving market growth. Also, advancements in smart and functional coatings, coupled with the rising preference for high-performance coatings, can fuel market growth further.
Paints & coatings are formulated products applied to surfaces to provide decoration, protection, and/or functional performance (e.g., corrosion resistance, fire retardance, aesthetics). Advancements in coatings technology, like the anti-microbial, self-cleaning, and smart coatings, are enhancing the performance and functionality, fulfilling consumer needs for more functional and durable products. Designers and consumers are also seeking advanced decorative paints with enhanced textures and colors.
Report Attributes | Details |
Market Size in 2025 | USD 39.99 Billion |
Expected Size by 2034 | USD 54.27 Billion |
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 | CAGR 3.45% |
Base Year of Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Period | 2025 - 2034 |
Segment Covered | Product Type, Chemistry / Resin Type, Technology / Process, End-Use Industry, Formulation & Physical Form, Distribution Channel, By Region |
Key Companies Profiled | AkzoNobel, PPG Industries , Sherwin-Williams, Axalta Coating Systems , BASF (Coatings Solutions) , Hempel , Jotun , Kansai Paint , Nippon Paint , RPM International , Teknos , Tikkurila , Beckers Group , Sika , Cromology , Crown Paints , Titan (Titanlux) , Berger Paints, Helios Group, Henkel |
The increasing adoption of UV-curable coatings across various industries is the major factor creating lucrative opportunities in the market. The benefits of UV-curable coatings, like mar and scratch resistance, contribute to their rise in popularity. Furthermore, many companies are investing rapidly in the manufacturing of multi-functional polyol intermediates, which are important ingredients in UV-curable coatings.
Higher inflation and interest rates have reduced consumer spending and construction activities across Europe, which is the major factor hindering market growth, particularly in countries like Germany and France. Moreover, the market also faces a shortage of skilled labour, especially in Western Europe, which can hamper the proper and timely application of products.
European Paints & Coatings Market Trends
The Western Europe region dominated the market with a 45% share in 2024. The dominance of the region can be attributed to the growing demand for sustainable waterborne coatings, along with the rapid investments in sustainable infrastructure such as renewable energy. In addition, consumers in Western Europe are rapidly seeking high-quality and premium architectural paints for home decoration, leading to regional growth soon.
The Eastern Europe region is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the region can be credited to the substantial rise in new vehicle production and the expanding automotive sector. Furthermore, companies and consumers in the region are focusing more on sustainable products, which leads to the adoption of eco-friendly solutions and other bio-based binders.
Which Product Type Segment Dominated the European Paints & Coatings Market in 2024?
The architectural & decorative segment dominated the market with a 45% share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be attributed to the ongoing urbanization and infrastructure development, followed by the investments in infrastructure projects. Additionally, growing disposable incomes and a shift towards aesthetic improvements boost he demand for high-end and premium decorative paints.
The industrial coatings segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the rapid surge in the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors. Also, major companies are heavily investing in technologies such as UV-curable coatings for faster drying times, improving overall product durability and performance across various applications.
Why Waterborne/Acrylic Emulsions Segment dominated the European Paints & Coatings Market in 2024?
The waterborne/acrylic emulsions segment held a 50% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the growing demand for sustainable products due to stringent VOC regulations, such as the EU's REACH. Waterborne coatings are preferred as they emit substantially lower VOCs, which leads to convenient indoor environments and compliance with environmental regulations.
The epoxy segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be driven by growing product demand from construction, automotive, and industrial sectors due to its high corrosion resistance, durability, and chemical resistance properties. Furthermore, Epoxy resins are used for both decorative and protective purposes, such as chemical-resistant and durable industrial flooring.
How Much Share Did the Waterborne Segment Held in 2024?
The waterborne segment dominated the market by holding a 55% share in 2024. The dominance of the segment is owed to the growing consumer awareness of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the increasing shift towards sustainable building practices. Moreover, this coating provides a cost-effective solution for maintaining and protecting surfaces, particularly as companies focus on improving the sustainability of their products.
The powder coating technology segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment is due to the technological advancements in coating technology, which lead to more effective applications and energy-efficient curing processes. Also, powder coatings are inherently VOC-free, which aligns with strict regulations which contributes to the overall segment expansion.
Which End Use Industry Segment Dominated the Market in 2024?
The residential construction segment held a 48% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be attributed to the growing demand for sustainable and decorative coatings, coupled with the increasing disposable incomes across the region. The region's focus on renovation wave strategy and energy-efficient buildings is growing the demand for high-performance residential coatings further in the market.
The automotive OEM & aftermarket segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the projected period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the strict environmental regulations preferring sustainable coatings and the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the region. Furthermore, consumers in Europe desire high-quality and visually appealing finishes for their vehicles.
Which Formulation Type Segment Dominated the Market in 2024?
The liquid segment dominated the market with a 78% share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be linked to the growing popularity of high-performance and premium coatings, along with the growing focus on energy-efficient infrastructure. Advancements in liquid coating technologies, like bio-based and UV-curable coatings, improve durability, performance, and overall environmental compliance.
The powder segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be credited to the growing demand for durable, high-quality, and corrosion-resistant coatings for different industrial applications. Powder coatings are extensively used across applications such as industrial equipment, pipes, and heavy machinery for their protective and functional properties.
How Much Share Did the DIY / Retail Segment Held in 2024?
The DIY / retail segment held a 42% market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment is owed to the advancements in paint technology, providing improved durability and functionality, coupled with the stringent environmental regulations promoting low-VOC and water-based products. Furthermore, there is an increasing consumer interest in home decoration in the region, which leads to premium architectural paints.
The e-commerce segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the study period. The growth of the segment is due to the rising focus on environmental concerns, which leads to the demand for bio-based and water-based coatings. Also, online platforms give an extensive range of paints and coatings, from basic to premium products for the automotive and industrial sectors.
Product Type
Chemistry / Resin Type
Technology / Process
End-Use Industry
Formulation & Physical Form
Distribution Channel
By Region
September 2025
September 2025
September 2025
August 2025