Key Insights
The European glass packaging market, valued at €21.75 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions across various sectors. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.21% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a consistent upward trajectory, fueled by several key factors. The burgeoning food and beverage industry, particularly within the premium segment, is a significant driver, with consumers increasingly favoring glass for its perceived quality and recyclability. Similarly, the cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries rely heavily on glass packaging due to its inert nature and protection against contamination. Growth within the pharmaceutical segment is further bolstered by stringent regulations prioritizing product safety and integrity. While some challenges exist, such as the rising costs of raw materials and energy, and competition from alternative packaging materials like plastic, the inherent advantages of glass—its recyclability, barrier properties, and aesthetic appeal—are expected to mitigate these restraints. The market is segmented by product type (bottles, ampoules, vials, syringes, jars), end-user industry (beverage, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals), and country (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Netherlands, and others). Germany, France, and the UK are currently the largest markets within Europe, but growth is anticipated across all major European countries as sustainability concerns continue to grow in consumer awareness.
The competitive landscape is marked by a blend of established multinational corporations and smaller regional players. Key players such as Ardagh Packaging Group, Stevanato Group, and Gerresheimer AG are leveraging their established infrastructure and technological capabilities to capitalize on market expansion. Smaller players are focusing on niche applications and specialized packaging solutions. The increasing adoption of lightweighting techniques and innovative designs is enhancing the sustainability profile of glass packaging, further solidifying its position in the market. The future of the European glass packaging market is promising, with continued growth anticipated as consumer preferences shift towards environmentally friendly and premium packaging options. The market is also likely to see further consolidation as companies seek to expand their market share and optimize production capabilities.
Europe Glass Packaging Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe glass packaging market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study covers the period 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The report meticulously analyzes market size, growth drivers, challenges, and competitive dynamics, providing actionable intelligence to navigate the evolving landscape of the European glass packaging sector. The total market size in 2025 is estimated to be xx Million.
Europe Glass Packaging Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The European glass packaging market exhibits a moderately consolidated structure, with several major players holding significant market share. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as economies of scale, technological advancements, and strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The report analyzes the competitive landscape, including market share data for key players like Ardagh Packaging Group PLC, Verallia, and Owens-Illinois Inc., among others. Innovation ecosystems are also assessed, considering the role of R&D investments, collaborations, and the emergence of new technologies. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning material safety and sustainability significantly impact market dynamics. The report examines the influence of these regulations on packaging design, material sourcing, and manufacturing processes. Product substitutes, such as plastic and metal packaging, pose a competitive challenge. However, growing consumer preference for sustainable packaging is expected to bolster the demand for glass packaging. The report also analyzes recent M&A activity, providing details on deal values and their impact on market consolidation. For example, xx Million worth of M&A deals were recorded in the last 5 years, showcasing significant industry restructuring and consolidation.
- Key Metrics: Market share of top 5 players (xx%), average M&A deal value (xx Million), number of M&A deals (xx).
- Innovation Ecosystems: Focus on R&D investment, strategic partnerships, and the introduction of new technologies in lightweighting and recycling.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Analysis of EU regulations on food safety, recycling targets, and circular economy initiatives.
- Product Substitutes: Assessment of competitive pressures from plastic, metal, and alternative packaging solutions.
Europe Glass Packaging Market Industry Trends & Insights
The European glass packaging market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging is a major growth catalyst. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, leading to a preference for recyclable and reusable glass packaging over alternatives like plastics. Furthermore, the growing popularity of premiumization across various sectors like food and beverages further fuels the demand for glass packaging owing to its perceived high-quality and aesthetic appeal. Technological advancements in glass manufacturing and design, such as lightweighting and improved surface decoration, enhance the attractiveness and functionality of glass packaging. The growing e-commerce sector also contributes to the market expansion, driving demand for robust and attractive packaging. However, fluctuating raw material prices and global supply chain disruptions represent ongoing challenges. This report analyzes the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the forecast period and assesses the market penetration rate for different glass packaging types in specific end-user industries. The CAGR for the period is estimated to be xx%, reflecting consistent growth in the market. Market penetration of glass packaging in the food and beverage sector is estimated at xx%.
Dominant Markets & Segments in Europe Glass Packaging Market
The UK, Germany, and France are the leading markets for glass packaging in Europe, driven by robust economies, strong consumer demand, and established manufacturing bases.
- By Product Type: Bottles dominate the market, driven by the beverage industry and other food applications. The vials segment shows promising growth due to the pharmaceuticals industry.
- By End-user Industry: The beverage industry is the largest end-user, with significant contributions from alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic drinks, followed by the food industry. The pharmaceutical sector is experiencing high growth in the demand for ampoules and vials.
- By Country:
- United Kingdom: Strong consumer demand, established manufacturing base, and favorable regulatory environment.
- Germany: Large and mature market with a diverse range of applications across various sectors.
- France: Significant presence of major glass packaging manufacturers and substantial domestic consumption.
- Italy: High demand for premium glass packaging in the food and beverage industry.
- Spain: Growing consumer demand and increasing focus on sustainable packaging.
Europe Glass Packaging Market Product Innovations
Recent innovations focus on lightweighting glass packaging to reduce transportation costs and environmental impact, along with enhancing designs for improved aesthetics and functionality. Improved surface decoration technologies, such as screen printing and hot stamping, cater to premium product presentation. The development of new glass formulations enhances properties like strength and durability. These innovations improve the market fit by offering more sustainable, attractive, and cost-effective solutions to the end-users.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report segments the Europe glass packaging market by product type (bottles, ampoules, vials, syringes, jars), end-user industry (beverage, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals), and country (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Netherlands). Each segment is analyzed comprehensively, providing insights into market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics. For example, the bottles segment is expected to witness robust growth, driven by increased demand from the beverage industry. The pharmaceuticals segment is predicted to experience high growth for ampoules and vials, driven by advancements in drug delivery systems. The UK and Germany are forecast to maintain their leading positions in terms of market size, driven by strong consumer demand.
Key Drivers of Europe Glass Packaging Market Growth
Several factors drive the growth of the European glass packaging market, including the increasing consumer preference for sustainable packaging, the growing demand for premium products that utilize aesthetically pleasing glass packaging, and technological advancements leading to lighter-weight, more durable glass containers. Stringent environmental regulations and governmental incentives promoting recycling also stimulate the growth of the sector. The expansion of e-commerce has also led to a rise in demand for effective and visually attractive glass packaging solutions.
Challenges in the Europe Glass Packaging Market Sector
The Europe glass packaging market faces several challenges, including fluctuating raw material prices, such as silica and soda ash, impacting production costs and profitability. Supply chain disruptions and logistics issues, particularly exacerbated in recent years, cause production delays and increased costs. Intense competition from alternative packaging materials, such as plastic and metal, also presents a significant challenge. Furthermore, stringent environmental regulations and the associated compliance costs require ongoing investment and adaptation by market players.
Leading Players in the Europe Glass Packaging Market Market
- Ardagh Packaging Group PLC
- Origin Pharma Packaging
- Stevanato Group
- Wiegand-Glass GmBH
- Vidrala SA
- BA Vidro SA (BA Glass BV)
- Verescene France SASU
- Crestani SRL
- Glassworks International Limited
- SGD Pharma SA
- Saverglass Group
- Beatson Clark PLC
- Verallia
- Stolzle Glass Group
- Vetropack Holding Ltd
- APG Europe
- Vitro SAB de CV
- Gaasch Packaging (UK) Ltd
- Gerresheimer AG
- Owens-Illinois Inc
Key Developments in Europe Glass Packaging Market Sector
- July 2023: British-based glass packaging firm Croxsons produced primary packaging for London-based refillable skincare essentials brand Necessary Good. This highlights the growing trend towards sustainable and refillable packaging.
- July 2023: Aegg Creative Packaging, a UK-based company, launched new wine bottles, showcasing a commitment to innovation in the beverage sector. This demonstrates ongoing product development and market expansion within the industry.
Strategic Europe Glass Packaging Market Outlook
The future of the Europe glass packaging market looks promising, driven by continued consumer preference for sustainable packaging, technological advancements, and the growth of premium product segments. Strategic opportunities exist for companies focusing on lightweighting, innovative designs, and enhanced recyclability. Expanding into new end-user industries and exploring new markets within Europe will also present significant growth potential. Companies that adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes will be best positioned for success in this dynamic market.
Europe Glass Packaging Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Bottles
- 1.2. Ampoules
- 1.3. Vials
- 1.4. Syringes
- 1.5. Jars
-
2. End-user Industry
-
2.1. Beverage
- 2.1.1. Liquor
- 2.1.2. Beer
- 2.1.3. Soft Drinks
- 2.1.4. Other Beverages
- 2.2. Food
- 2.3. Cosmetics
- 2.4. Pharmaceuticals
-
2.1. Beverage
Europe Glass Packaging Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Europe
- 1.1. United Kingdom
- 1.2. Germany
- 1.3. France
- 1.4. Italy
- 1.5. Spain
- 1.6. Netherlands
- 1.7. Belgium
- 1.8. Sweden
- 1.9. Norway
- 1.10. Poland
- 1.11. Denmark
Europe Glass Packaging Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2019-2033 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Estimated Year | 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 3.21% from 2019-2033 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Rapid Shift Toward Sustainable Packaging Due to Stringent Regulations; Growing Adoption of Premium Glass Packaging in End-user Industries Such as Beverages and Cosmetics
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. ; Recycling Concerns and Dependence on End-user Uptake
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Beverages Segment to Hold a Significant Share
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Bottles
- 5.1.2. Ampoules
- 5.1.3. Vials
- 5.1.4. Syringes
- 5.1.5. Jars
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 5.2.1. Beverage
- 5.2.1.1. Liquor
- 5.2.1.2. Beer
- 5.2.1.3. Soft Drinks
- 5.2.1.4. Other Beverages
- 5.2.2. Food
- 5.2.3. Cosmetics
- 5.2.4. Pharmaceuticals
- 5.2.1. Beverage
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. Germany Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. France Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Italy Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. United Kingdom Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Netherlands Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Sweden Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of Europe Europe Glass Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Ardagh Packaging Group PLC
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Origin Pharma Packaging
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Stevanato Group
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Wiegand-Glass GmBH
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Vidrala SA
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 BA Vidro SA (BA Glass BV)
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Verescene France SASU
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Crestani SRL
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Glassworks International Limited
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 SGD Pharma SA
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.11 Saverglass Group
- 13.2.11.1. Overview
- 13.2.11.2. Products
- 13.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.12 Beatson Clark PLC
- 13.2.12.1. Overview
- 13.2.12.2. Products
- 13.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.13 Verallia
- 13.2.13.1. Overview
- 13.2.13.2. Products
- 13.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.14 Stolzle Glass Group
- 13.2.14.1. Overview
- 13.2.14.2. Products
- 13.2.14.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.14.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.14.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.15 Vetropack Holding Ltd
- 13.2.15.1. Overview
- 13.2.15.2. Products
- 13.2.15.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.15.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.15.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.16 APG Europe
- 13.2.16.1. Overview
- 13.2.16.2. Products
- 13.2.16.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.16.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.16.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.17 Vitro SAB de CV
- 13.2.17.1. Overview
- 13.2.17.2. Products
- 13.2.17.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.17.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.17.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.18 Gaasch Packaging (UK) Ltd*List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.18.1. Overview
- 13.2.18.2. Products
- 13.2.18.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.18.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.18.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.19 Gerresheimer AG
- 13.2.19.1. Overview
- 13.2.19.2. Products
- 13.2.19.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.19.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.19.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.20 Owens-Illinois Inc
- 13.2.20.1. Overview
- 13.2.20.2. Products
- 13.2.20.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.20.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.20.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Ardagh Packaging Group PLC
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Glass Packaging Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: United Kingdom Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Germany Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: France Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Italy Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Spain Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Netherlands Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Belgium Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Sweden Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Norway Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Poland Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Denmark Europe Glass Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Glass Packaging Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.21%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Glass Packaging Market?
Key companies in the market include Ardagh Packaging Group PLC, Origin Pharma Packaging, Stevanato Group, Wiegand-Glass GmBH, Vidrala SA, BA Vidro SA (BA Glass BV), Verescene France SASU, Crestani SRL, Glassworks International Limited, SGD Pharma SA, Saverglass Group, Beatson Clark PLC, Verallia, Stolzle Glass Group, Vetropack Holding Ltd, APG Europe, Vitro SAB de CV, Gaasch Packaging (UK) Ltd*List Not Exhaustive, Gerresheimer AG, Owens-Illinois Inc.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Glass Packaging Market?
The market segments include Product Type, End-user Industry.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 21.75 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Rapid Shift Toward Sustainable Packaging Due to Stringent Regulations; Growing Adoption of Premium Glass Packaging in End-user Industries Such as Beverages and Cosmetics.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Beverages Segment to Hold a Significant Share.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Recycling Concerns and Dependence on End-user Uptake.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
July 2023: British-based glass packaging firm Croxsons produced primary packaging for London-based refillable skincare essentials brand Necessary Good. The glassware was created by Croxson’s Lifestyle, Beauty, Health, and Wellness division.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Glass Packaging Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Glass Packaging Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Glass Packaging Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Glass Packaging Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database
Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)
Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations
Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence
