10 Best Extrusion  blow molding machine manufacturers in Italy

Our 2025 buyer’s guide to the 10 best Extrusion blow molding machine manufacturers in Italy, comparing costs, service, and all-electric options.

Choosing the right Extrusion blow molding machine is a big deal. It affects your production speed, energy bills, and ability to keep up with customer orders. This guide breaks down the top manufacturers available in Italy to help you make a straightforward choice, whether you’re a startup or an established factory looking to upgrade.

Manufacturers At-a-Glance (with Official Sites)

Plastiblow — https://www.plastiblow.it

lekamachine — https://lekamachine.com

Kautex Maschinenbau — https://www.kautex-group.com

Bekum — https://www.bekum.com

Magic MP — https://www.magicmp.it

Uniloy — https://www.uniloy.com

S.T. Soffiaggio Tecnica — https://www.st-soffiaggio.it

Graham Engineering — https://www.grahamengineering.com

Hesta Blasformtechnik — https://www.hesta.de

Meccanoplastica — https://www.meccanoplastica.com

Why This Matters in 2025 (Extrusion blow molding machine trends, uptime, energy)

In Italy, energy costs are a major concern. The push for efficiency is stronger than ever. Modern machines, especially all-electric models, can significantly cut your electricity bill. At the same time, customers want faster turnarounds and more custom bottle shapes, so you need equipment that allows for quick mold changes and reliable uptime. Downtime doesn’t just stop production; it can cost you contracts. Getting a machine with solid local or regional service support is non-negotiable.

Cost and Pricing Signals for 2025 (Extrusion blow molding machine pricing, cost drivers)

Machine prices in Italy can range from under €100,000 for a simple, single-head machine to over €1 million for a complex, high-output multilayer system. Key cost drivers include the type (continuous shuttle is flexible, accumulator head is for large parts), clamping force, number of cavities, and automation features. Don’t forget to budget for taxes (IVA), shipping, and installation. A machine from an Asian supplier might have a lower upfront cost, but be sure to factor in import duties and the total cost of commissioning.

Energy, Utilities, and Sustainability (all-electric Extrusion blow molding machine, energy efficiency)

With Italy’s high energy prices, an all-electric Extrusion blow molding machine is a smart investment. They use servo motors instead of hydraulics, consuming power only when moving. This can reduce energy use by 40% or more compared to older hydraulic machines. Look for the kWh per 1,000 bottles metric when comparing quotes. Good insulation on heater bands and efficient compressed air usage also contribute to lower running costs. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about meeting EU sustainability goals and appealing to environmentally conscious clients.

Throughput vs. Flexibility Trade-offs (rotary vs continuous vs accumulator head)

Your choice of machine technology depends on your products. For high-volume production of the same container, like milk or juice bottles, a rotary wheel machine is fastest. For more variety in shapes and sizes, common in the personal care or specialty foods market, a continuous or shuttle machine offers the best flexibility. If you’re making large industrial parts like chemical drums or automotive components, an accumulator head machine is the only way to go. It gathers a large shot of melted plastic before pushing it out, which is necessary for thick-walled items.

Mold, Tooling, and Quick-Change Strategy (quick changeover, parison control, in-mold labeling)

If you handle many different products (high-mix, low-volume), the time it takes to change a mold is critical. Look for machines with quick-change systems. Some can reduce changeover time from hours to under 30 minutes. Ask potential suppliers for a video of a complete mold change. Good parison control, which adjusts the thickness of the plastic tube, is also key to saving material and ensuring bottle strength. In-mold labeling (IML) can also be integrated to produce finished, decorated containers in one step.

Process Control and Quality (wall thickness control, parison programming)

Modern process controls are all about consistency. A good machine will have precise parison programming, allowing you to make the container walls thicker where needed for strength (like the base) and thinner elsewhere to save plastic. This reduces scrap rates and ensures that a bottle made at the end of a shift is identical to one made at the start. It’s the key to maintaining качество and profitability.

Materials and Multilayer Barriers (HDPE, PP, PETG, EVOH multilayer bottles)

Most Extrusion blow molding machine run on HDPE and PP, which are great for containers for milk, shampoo, and chemicals. For products that are sensitive to oxygen, like some sauces, juices, or agricultural chemicals, you’ll need a machine with multilayer capability. These machines add a thin barrier layer of a material like EVOH between layers of standard plastic. This is becoming a standard requirement in the food and agrochemical industries in Italy to extend shelf life.

Top 10 Extrusion Blow Molding Machine Manufacturers in Italy

Plastiblow (Italian manufacturer)

Based in Corsico (Milan), Plastiblow is a well-known Italian brand specializing in all-electric Extrusion blow molding machine. They have a strong reputation for energy efficiency and precision, making them a popular choice for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food packaging where качество and low contamination risk are critical. Their local presence means direct and fast service for Italian customers.

Main products

Plastiblow focuses exclusively on all-electric shuttle machines, ranging from single to double station models. They offer решения for small containers (5 ml) up to larger 30-litre jerrycans, including multilayer co-extrusion options.

Pros

Excellent energy efficiency due to all-electric design. High precision and clean operation, suitable for sensitive applications. Fast and direct local service and parts from within Italy.

Cons

Premium pricing compared to hydraulic or overseas options. Less focused on very large industrial containers (accumulator head machines).

Official site: https://www.plastiblow.it

lekamachine (global OEM with Asia coverage)

LekaMachine offers a practical balance of performance and cost for the Italian market. As a global OEM, they provide robust and customizable Extrusion blow molding machine that cater to a wide range of applications, from small bottles to large industrial drums. While they don’t have a direct office in Italy, they support the region through dedicated service teams and remote diagnostics, making them a competitive choice for businesses focused on fast ROI.

Main products

LekaMachine’s portfolio includes the versatile FORMA Series for general-purpose containers, the high-speed AERO Series for mass production, and the powerful TITAN Series for large chemical drums and automotive parts]. They offer both hybrid and fully-electric options.

Pros

Highly competitive pricing, offering a strong value proposition. A significant advantage is their 30–90 day delivery lead time, much faster than many European competitors. Wide range of machines for diverse applications.

Cons

Service is dispatched from a regional hub, not a local Italian office. Brand may be less established in Italy compared to legacy European names.

Official site: https://lekamachine.com

Kautex Maschinenbau (German manufacturer with Italian service)

Kautex is a global leader, particularly known for its consumer packaging and industrial applications, especially in the automotive sector. They have a strong reputation for innovation, reliability, and advanced technology. For the Italian market, they offer support through their European network, ensuring access to skilled technicians and parts.

Main products

Their KBB series is a benchmark for all-electric bottle production, while their KCC and KBS series machines are workhorses for industrial packaging and automotive fuel tanks. They are leaders in multilayer technology and quick-change systems.

Pros

Cutting-edge technology, particularly in all-electric and multilayer applications. High reliability and machine longevity. Strong presence in the demanding automotive sector.

Cons

Among the most expensive options on the market. Lead times can be long due to high demand and complex configurations.

Official site: https://www.kautex-group.com

Bekum (German manufacturer with Italian agency)

Bekum is a pioneer in the выдувное формование industry and has a very strong brand name in Europe. They are known for high-performance, durable machines that serve a wide range of markets, from small personal care bottles to large jerrycans. They are represented in Italy by local agents who handle sales and coordinate service.

Main products

Bekum offers hydraulic, hybrid, and all-electric machine series. Their platforms cover continuous extrusion, shuttle, and accumulator head processes. They are particularly strong in single-station and double-station shuttle machines for consumer goods.

Pros

Proven reliability and long machine life. Flexible machine platforms for many different applications. Strong reputation and high resale value.

Cons

Higher initial investment cost. Service is through an agent, which can sometimes add a layer to communication compared to a direct subsidiary.

Official site: https://www.bekum.com

Magic MP (Italian manufacturer)

Magic, based in Monza, is another key Italian player focused primarily on all-electric technology. They have a strong focus on innovation, particularly in reducing energy consumption and creating compact machine footprints. Their machines are widely used for packaging dairy, food, cosmetic, and cleaning products.

Main products

Magic’s portfolio is centered on all-electric shuttle machines. They are known for features like integrated quality control systems and user-friendly controls. They offer models that are extremely compact, saving valuable floor space.

Pros

Deep expertise in all-electric technology. Low energy consumption is a core design principle. Direct local support from an established Italian company.

Cons

Primarily focused on small-to-medium-sized containers. Not the typical choice for heavy industrial or automotive parts.

Official site: https://www.magicmp.it

Uniloy (Global manufacturer with Italian factory)

Uniloy has a major historical presence in Italy with a factory in Magenta. They offer a huge range of выдувное формование technologies, including Extrusion blow molding machine, injection blow, and structural foam machinery. This wide portfolio and local manufacturing base make them a versatile and convenient option for Italian buyers.

Main products

Uniloy provides shuttle machines, reciprocating screw machines, and accumulator head models. Their U-series is known for its flexibility, while their accumulator head machines are used for large industrial containers and parts.

Pros

Local manufacturing and service presence in Italy. Broad technology portfolio covering many different blow molding needs. Strong experience with lightweighting and recycled material processing.

Cons

As a large organization, their focus can be spread across many technologies. Some models may not be as specialized as those from niche manufacturers.

Official site: https://www.uniloy.com

S.T. Soffiaggio Tecnica (Italian manufacturer)

S.T. Soffiaggio Tecnica, located near Bologna, is a flexible and customer-oriented Italian manufacturer. They build a range of Extrusion blow molding machine, known for their solid construction and customization options. They are a good choice for companies needing a specific solution tailored to their product.

Main products

They produce both shuttle and accumulator head machines. Their offerings range from single-head machines for small bottles to large accumulator models capable of producing 30-litre containers, with mono-layer and multi-layer options.

Pros

High degree of customization available. Solid, robust machine construction. Direct relationship and service from an experienced Italian team.

Cons

Smaller brand presence outside of Italy. May not have the same level of advanced R&D as the larger German competitors.

Official site: https://www.st-soffiaggio.it

Graham Engineering (US manufacturer with EU support)

Graham Engineering is a well-respected American brand known for its high-output rotary wheel machines and accumulator head technology. They are a top choice for industrial applications and high-volume packaging. They support the Italian market through their European service network.

Main products

Their rotary wheel series is a leader for producing containers for motor oil, household chemicals, and food products at very high speeds. They also build a range of accumulator head machines for industrial applications.

Pros

Excellent for very high throughput applications. Robust and reliable machines designed for 24/7 operation. Strong in processing post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.

Cons

Rotary machines are a very high investment. Service is coordinated from a European base, not directly within Italy.

Official site: https://www.grahamengineering.com

Hesta Blasformtechnik (German manufacturer with Italian agent)

Hesta is a German specialist in small-to-medium sized Extrusion blow molding machine. They are known for their compact, efficient, and often all-electric machines, making them ideal for producing containers up to 10 litres. Their presence in Italy is managed through experienced local agents.

Main products

Hesta’s range consists of single and double-station shuttle machines. They offer excellent all-electric models that are precise and energy-efficient, perfect for cosmetics, pharma, and chemical packaging.

Pros

High-quality German engineering in a compact footprint. Excellent precision and efficiency for smaller containers. Good choice for cleanroom environments.

Cons

Limited to containers under 10 litres. Not suitable for large jerrycans or industrial parts. Service is facilitated by an agent.

Official site: https://www.hesta.de

Meccanoplastica (Italian manufacturer)

Based in Florence, Meccanoplastica is an Italian company that offers a range of plastics processing machinery, including Extrusion blow molding machine, injection blow, and машины для выдувного формования (stretch blow molding machines). This gives them a broad perspective on container manufacturing. Their focus in extrusion is on flexible, all-electric solutions.

Main products

They offer the JET series of all-electric Extrusion blow molding machine designed for containers up to 5 litres. These machines are built for flexibility, energy savings, and ease of use in the food, cosmetic, and chemical sectors.

Pros

Local Italian manufacturing and support. Broad expertise across different выдувное формование technologies. Modern, all-electric machine designs.

Cons

Экструзионно-выдувное формование is one part of a larger portfolio, not their sole focus. Their range is concentrated on smaller container sizes.

Official site: https://www.meccanoplastica.com

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Extrusion blow molding machine Manufacturer for a Startup (startup manufacturer selection)

If you’re starting a new business, your priorities are different. You need a machine that arrives quickly, is easy to operate, and has predictable running costs. A short delivery time, like the 30-90 days offered by some overseas suppliers, can be a huge advantage to start generating revenue faster. Look for a manufacturer that provides thorough training in Italian and has responsive service, even if it’s remote, to help you through the initial learning curve. A simple, reliable machine with a good Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is often a better choice than the most advanced, complex model.

How to Find a Extrusion blow molding machine Manufacturer for Your Startup (how to choose, vendor shortlist, RFQ)

Start by shortlisting 3-4 potential suppliers from the list above that fit your product and budget. The most important step is to request a pilot run or test using your own molds and plastic resin. This is the only way to verify the machine’s actual performance, including its output (OEE), scrap rate, energy consumption, and changeover time. Ask for references from other companies in Italy. A visit to a local factory using their machine is invaluable.

Domestic vs. Overseas Extrusion blow molding machine Manufacturers (local service vs cost)

Choosing between an Italian/EU manufacturer and an overseas one is a key decision. Local manufacturers offer very fast on-site service and no import complexities, but usually at a higher price. Overseas manufacturers, particularly from Asia, can offer significant cost savings and sometimes faster delivery. The trade-off is that service might rely more on remote diagnostics and technicians who travel from a regional hub. A hybrid model, where an overseas company has a strong European parts and service partner, can offer a good balance.

Maintenance, Spare Parts, and SLAs (service coverage, spare parts, MTTR)

Before you buy, confirm where the manufacturer keeps their spare parts. A parts depot within the EU is essential to avoid long waits and customs delays. Your purchase contract should include a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that clearly defines response times for service requests. Ask about Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) targets and the availability of remote diagnostics, where a technician can log into your machine online to troubleshoot problems quickly.

Installation, Commissioning, and Ramp-Up (FAT/SAT, acceptance criteria)

The purchase process should include a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) at the manufacturer’s site and a Site Acceptance Test (SAT) at your facility. Create a clear checklist for both. The SAT should only be signed off once the machine meets pre-agreed performance targets (e.g., running a specific product for 8 hours with less than 2% scrap). Plan the installation schedule carefully, accounting for Italian holidays and vacation periods like August to avoid delays.

Pilot Runs and Acceptance Criteria (OEE, kWh per 1,000 bottles)

Don’t rely on brochure specifications. The best way to judge a machine is a pilot run with your production molds, material, and operators. This is your chance to measure the real-world KPIs that matter: Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), cycle time, scrap rate, and energy use (kWh per 1,000 bottles). Use this data to compare suppliers head-to-head and to set the final acceptance criteria for your purchase.

Total Cost of Ownership and ROI Modeling (TCO calculator, payback model)

The purchase price is only one part of the total cost. A true Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculation must include energy consumption, maintenance, spare parts, labor, and potential downtime over 5-10 years. Use local electricity rates in Italy (in €/kWh) and labor costs to build a realistic model. A cheaper machine that uses more energy or breaks down more often can end up costing you more in the long run.

Operator Training and Change Management (HMI standardization, SOPs)

A new machine is only as good as the people running it. Ensure the manufacturer provides comprehensive training in Italian. The machine’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI) should be intuitive and, if possible, standardized across your factory to make it easier for operators to switch between machines. Develop clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for machine setup, operation, and mold changes from day one.

Digital Connectivity and Data (remote monitoring, MES/ERP integration)

Modern machines are data hubs. They should be able to connect to your network for remote monitoring of production status and alarms. Look for machines that follow Industria 4.0 principles and can easily integrate with your Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or ERP software. This allows you to track production data automatically, helping you identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

Case Studies and Benchmarks (before/after energy savings, changeover, OEE)

A packaging company in Emilia-Romagna switched from an old hydraulic machine to a new all-electric model for their 1-litre HDPE bottles. They cut their energy consumption for that line by 45%, saving over €20,000 per year. Another company producing automotive fluid reservoirs near Turin invested in a machine with a quick-change system. They reduced their average mold change time from 4 hours to just 40 minutes, allowing them to take on smaller, more profitable orders.

RFQ Checklist and Vendor Scorecard (RFQ template, vendor comparison)

When you send out a Request for Quotation (RFQ), be specific. Ask for guaranteed energy consumption (kWh per 1,000 bottles) at a specific cycle time. Request a video of a mold changeover and the exact time in minutes. Ask for a list of critical spare parts and their costs. Get a map showing their service technician coverage in Italy and a draft Service Level Agreement with clear response time targets. Finally, insist on at least two local references you can контакт directly.

Other Options Than Extrusion blow molding machine Manufacturers (contract manufacturing, refurb, alternatives)

Buying a new machine isn’t the only option. For new projects or low volumes, you could use a contract manufacturer (a “soffiatore per conto terzi”) in Italy to produce the parts for you. This avoids the large capital investment. Another option is to refurbish or retrofit an existing machine with new controls or an energy-efficient drive system. Lastly, for certain types of containers, particularly those with very precise necks like for cosmetics, you might consider injection blow molding or stretch blow molding as alternative processes.

ЧАСТО ЗАДАВАЕМЫЕ ВОПРОСЫ

What is the main difference between Extrusion blow molding machine, injection blow, and stretch blow?
Extrusion blow molding machine is the most versatile for a wide range of hollow parts (jerrycans, бутылки с шампунем). Injection blow molding is for smaller, high-precision bottles with no scrap (cosmetics, pharma). Stretch blow molding is used for PET bottles that need to be clear and strong (water, soda).

What are typical delivery lead times for a new machine in Italy?
For European manufacturers, lead times are often 6-12 months. Some Asian suppliers like lekamachine can deliver much faster, sometimes in 30-90 days, which can be a significant advantage for getting a product to market quickly.

When do I need an EVOH multilayer machine?
You need a multilayer machine with an EVOH barrier if your product is sensitive to oxygen. This is common for tomato-based sauces, fruit juices, UHT milk, and some agricultural chemicals to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.

What is a good energy consumption for an all-electric machine?
For a typical 1-litre бутылка из ПНД, a modern all-electric Extrusion blow molding machine should consume around 0.30-0.40 kWh per kilogram of processed plastic. Always ask for this value in your RFQ.

What KPIs should be in our Site Acceptance Test (SAT)?
Your key acceptance KPIs should be: running a continuous production for at least 8 hours, maintaining an OEE of over 85%, keeping the scrap rate below 2%, and demonstrating a full mold change within the time promised by the manufacturer.

What should a service SLA include?
A good SLA for the Italian market should guarantee a phone/remote response within 2-4 hours and a technician on-site within 24-48 hours. It should also specify the cost of service and the availability of critical spare parts from a European depot.

Can I use my old molds on a new machine?
Sometimes, but not always. You need to check if the mold dimensions, thickness, and connections (water, air) are compatible with the new machine’s platen size and stroke. The manufacturer can evaluate your existing molds for compatibility.

Are there financing or leasing options available in Italy?
Yes, most machine manufacturers and banks in Italy offer financing or “leasing” options. These allow you to pay for the machine over several years, which can help manage cash flow, especially for startups and small businesses.

External links

Federazione Gomma Plastica (Italian Rubber and Plastic Federation) — https://www.federazionegommaplastica.it

MacPlas (Итальянский журнал о пластмассах) — https://www.macplas.it

Plastics Technology — https://www.ptonline.com

CE Marking Information — https://www.europa.eu/youreurope/business/product-requirements/ce-marking/index_en.htm

Заключение (следующие шаги, шорт-лист, пилотный запуск, SLA)

The best Extrusion blow molding machine for your Italian facility comes down to three things: the right technology for your products, a clear and favorable Total Cost of Ownership, and reliable service. Use this guide to create a shortlist of 3-4 manufacturers. The next step is to engage with them, provide your exact specifications, and demand a pilot run to see the machines perform with your own molds and materials. Don’t sign a contract until you have a solid Service Level Agreement in place. A smart, data-driven choice now will pay off for years to come.