The global sorting equipment market is experiencing dynamic growth as industries prioritize automation, efficiency, and quality control. Rapid advancements in sensor technology, machine learning, and AI-driven systems are driving demand for highly accurate sorting solutions across multiple sectors.
In 2024, TOMRA Sorting and Bühler Group introduced next-generation optical sorters featuring hyperspectral imaging and real-time data analytics, enabling unprecedented levels of precision. The market, valued at approximately USD 5.0 billion in 2024, is projected to surpass USD 5.4 billion in 2025 and reach USD 11.2 billion by 2035.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 5.4 billion |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 11.2 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 7.3% |
Optical sorters will remain the most widely adopted product type due to their versatility and ability to deliver high-speed, defect-free sorting. The food industry leads demand as manufacturers adopt sophisticated sorting technologies to enhance product quality, meet stringent safety standards, and minimize waste.
The sorting equipment market places high importance on delivering value through precision and operational reliability. Companies focus not only on achieving accurate sorting results but also on minimizing downtime to ensure continuous, efficient performance. This customer-centric approach is vital in industries where sorting accuracy directly impacts product quality and overall productivity.
Stefan Ranstrand, former President and CEO of TOMRA Food, emphasized this balance by stating: “The most important thing is to understand the customer and give them full value, not only in sorting accuracy, but also to make sure the machine runs all the time and always delivers top performance.”
Key players driving the market include TOMRA Sorting Solutions, Bühler Group, Sesotec GmbH, Binder+Co AG, Satake Corporation, Key Technology, Inc., Raytec Vision S.p.A., CP Manufacturing, Inc., Pellenc ST, and Meyer Optoelectronic Technology Inc. These companies focus on integrating AI, IoT connectivity, and real-time analytics into sorting platforms, alongside strategic collaborations with industry leaders.
The sorting equipment market is evolving rapidly as industries adopt intelligent automation to enhance product quality and operational efficiency. Optical sorters lead product innovation with unmatched versatility, while the food industry emerges as the primary growth driver amid rising safety standards and sustainability targets.
Optical sorters are projected to account for 37% of the sorting equipment market in 2025. These systems offer unmatched speed and precision in identifying and removing defects, contaminants, and off-spec materials across a wide range of industries.
Technological innovations such as hyperspectral imaging, AI-driven pattern recognition, and multi-sensor integration are transforming optical sorting capabilities. TOMRA and Bühler are at the forefront of these advancements, delivering sorters that can distinguish subtle variations in color, texture, and chemical composition.
The demand for optical sorters is particularly strong in sectors where product quality and safety are paramount, such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and recycling. In 2024, Bühler’s launch of the SORTEX H SpectraVision marked a significant step forward, offering real-time data integration and enhanced sorting accuracy.
As industries prioritize quality assurance and resource efficiency, optical sorting is set to remain the dominant product type. The flexibility of these systems to adapt to diverse applications further cements their leadership through 2035.
The food industry is expected to represent 34% of sorting equipment market demand in 2025. Increasing regulatory scrutiny, consumer expectations for premium quality, and the need to reduce food waste are driving widespread adoption of advanced sorting technologies.
Manufacturers deploy sorting equipment across multiple stages - from raw material intake to final packaging - to ensure consistent product quality and safety. Optical sorters, X-ray systems, and metal detectors play key roles in detecting and removing contaminants, foreign materials, and defective products.
In 2024, TOMRA’s partnership with European fruit processors enabled deployment of AI-enabled sorters that reduced waste by 25% while enhancing product uniformity. Similarly, Satake Corporation’s rice sorting solutions are helping Asian processors meet both domestic and export quality standards.
The integration of sorting equipment with Industry 4.0 frameworks is another growing trend, allowing real-time process optimization and traceability. As the global food industry intensifies efforts to achieve zero-defect production and meet evolving sustainability goals, demand for state-of-the-art sorting equipment is expected to rise steadily through 2035.
High Initial Investment Costs
Advanced sorting equipment requires a great deal of investment-involving not only capital but sensor-based and even AI-driven solutions-as many industries are dubbed to follow suit, especially the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The remaining challenge involves high implementation costs, which therefore leads not only to the procurement of equipment, installation, but also their integration into the existing production process.
Moreover, the expenses for maintenance incurring software upgrades would run up overall expenditure, thus really affordable-affordable in the long run, particularly for companies on the economic défensive. Nevertheless, the capital investment required up front remains a hindrance for the industry amid the promise of improved productivity with overall reduced costs of production, especially in the developing countries where the concept of automating industry is still underway.
Complexity in Integration and Technical Challenges
Integrating modern sorting stations into an established manufacturing infrastructure or a waste processing plant can be complicated. The integration poses compatibility issues with the legacy systems, the need to train specialized professionals, as well as frequent calibrations that complicate the operational use.
Additionally, these AI-based sorting solutions require continuous software updates and changes to accommodate the evolving industry standards. Many industries are challenged in the ability to offer frictionless data shifting and machine learning optimization, which accordingly put limits on widespread adoption.
Regulatory Variations Across Regions
Waste management, food safety, and industrial automation each have different rules in various countries that pose compliance hurdles for manufacturers of sorting equipment. For instance, Europe has a very strict environmental law that serves as a reason for such high-precision sorting in recycling, with little or no standardized norm existing in developing regions, only further resulting in blockage for its adoption.
To conform to varying standards of regulation, there will be increased costs thereby making global expansion strategies quite complicated. This means, while they now have to put in place compliance regimes for specific regions, such time and money investment can slow down or at least complicate reaching the market thereafter.
Rising Demand for AI and IoT-Enabled Sorting Solutions
Rising adoption of artificial intelligence-based Internet of Things (IoT) in industrial automation implies a growth opportunity for sorting equipment manufacturers. AI-driven sorting systems would improve accuracy, speed, and flexibility, thereby benefiting applications in food processing, waste management, and logistics. With IoT integration, real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making are possible, thereby reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
The demand for intelligent automated sorting solutions is anticipated to rise sharply as industries adopt smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0, thus new revenue avenues for the market players are expected to open up.
Growth in Recycling and Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is a priority for governments and industries around the globe, and efficient waste sorting and recycling equipment is in high demand. As waste disposal regulations tighten and the circular economy gains traction, firms are implementing technologies that allow for much higher rates of material recovery and lower levels of landfill waste.
Systems based on optics and sensors are helping to separate recyclable materials with a high degree of accuracy. As sustainability agendas tighten, the need for advanced, high-throughput sorting technology will expand, particularly within the plastics, metals and e-waste recycling industries.
Expansion of E-Commerce and Logistics Automation
With various governments and industries around the world demanding to take sustainability seriously we have created an incredible demand for better waste sorts and recycling equipment. As environmental regulations regarding waste disposal become more stringent and initiatives such as the circular economy gain traction, companies are putting money into advanced sorting technologies to enhance material recovery rates and limit landfill waste.
Strictly speaking, optical and sensor-based sorting systems help separate the recyclable materials with extreme accuracy. As sustainability targets become ever more ambitious, the need for innovative, high-efficiency sorting technology will continue to rise, particularly in the plastics, metals and e-waste recycling industries.
The growth of the sorting equipment market in the United States will likely be fueled by the growth of industrial automation and strict environmental regulations, expected to observe a CAGR of 7.8% from 2025 to 2035. AI-based sorting systems are increasingly being rolled out in the country’s waste management sector to increase recycling rates and reduce general waste that ends up in landfills.
Another significant driver of growth is the food processing industry, with a strong demand for precision sorting to adhere to food safety standards. Mineral ore processing in the mining sector is also adding sensor-based sorting equipment into the mix. Government initiatives (tax incentives for sustainable manufacturing and waste reduction programs) also facilitate market expansion.
Labor shortages in sorting operations are compelling industrial sectors to deploy robotic sorting solutions to future-proof their operations. As we think more about the circular economy, the industries are turning more to advanced sorting technologies for better material recovery, leading the USA to become one of the major markets for sorting equipment.
| Country | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| United States | 7.8% |
The United Kingdom market for sorting equipment is projected to witness a growth rate of 7.2% between 2025 and 2035 owing to the nation’s ardent efforts towards sustainable waste management strategies and stringent recycling policies. High adoption of advanced sorting technologies to improve material recovery with the UK government’s initiative for circular economy are expected to drive the demand for the market.
Brexit-related labour shortages are prompting industries to increasingly consider automation for sorting tasks, allowing them to cut down on manual labour. E-waste recycling is also another big driver, since regulations demand better sorting methods to extract valuable materials from used electronics.
| Country | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 7.2% |
The EU Green Deal policies led to the framework for the circular economy, driving the growth of the European sorting equipment market at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2035 European Union member nations have enacted strict regulations surrounding waste sorting and recycling, resulting in industries being forced to invest in high-end, sensor-based sorter equipment that goes through artificial intelligence training.
Summary: The packaging sector is undergoing a transformation; increasing sustainability targets and regulations are prompting manufacturers to implement enabling high-tech sorting technologies for effective material sorting. Furthermore, increased use of automation technologies such as automated sorting in industrial and construction sectors is gaining importance to manage the waste effectively and comply with EU directives.
Another major contributing factor is the growing e-waste recycling throughout the region, as governments incentivize the implementation of robotic sorting solutions. Smart waste management and sustainability in manufacturing will remain the EU's guiding principles to improve the demand for innovative sorting technologies.
| Region | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| European Union | 7.5% |
Japan has ramped up in the attention of robotics and automation, and projections show Japan's sorting equipment market more than doubling its market size by 2035 CAGR of 7.1% . Japan is a trailblazer in recovering precious metals from electronic waste, and its stringent recycling laws help drive demand for high-precision sorting equipment in the electronic-waste industry.
Food production is another big classic because the sorting in the food processing automation is critical for making sure of quality. Blockage of Automated Sorting Equipment: The trend of automated sorting equipment is increasingly gaining momentum from all sectors, coupled with the Japanese government initiative towards smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies.
And more - the trends for sustainability and resource optimization are making the demand for new sorting solutions keep rising with no sign of slowing down.
| Country | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| Japan | 7.1% |
Driven by advancements in smart manufacturing, electronic waste management, and food processing automation, the South Korea sorting equipment market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% in the timeframe of 2025 to 2035. In South Korea, technology-driven market has increased adoption of AI and IoT-based sorting systems to improve efficiency while reducing labor dependency.
411 million metric tons (454 million tons) each year, has only just begun to take on e-waste, with stringent laws on its disposal driving up the electroncis recycling business - including the placement of sensor-based sorting machinery. South Korea’s food industry is also undergoing rapid modernization as automated sorting solutions are employed to keep up with quality and safety standards.
| Country | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| South Korea | 7.4% |
The sorting equipment market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for automation, efficiency, and sustainability across industries such as food processing, recycling, mining, and logistics. Technological advancements, such as AI-driven sorting systems and sensor-based sorting, are reshaping the competitive landscape. Key global players, along with regional contributors, are investing in innovation and expanding their portfolios to cater to diverse industry needs.
Tomra Systems ASA
Tomra Systems ASA specializes in sensor-based sorting solutions for automation and sustainability. The company’s sorting solutions serve food processing, recycling and mining industries, enhancing resource efficiency and reducing waste. Tomra's AI and machine learning investment continually improves sorting accuracy and operational efficiency.
The company is strategically taking steps that includes partnerships and acquisitions to reinforce its global reach. Innovative reverse vending and waste management solutions are recent examples of that passion for circular economy initiatives. Tomra continues to be the dominant player but is leveraging data insights and sophistication of technology to be the market leader and continue growing.
Bühler Group
Bühler Group, a vendor of optical sorters primarily for food companies. The high precision sorting technology from the company helps ensure food safety and quality, making it a popular choice of food processors and grain millers. The requirement of the efficient sorting solution of energy-efficient and sustainable approach so as to keep pace with the food production and other equipment production with consuming minimum resources is addressed by Bühler.
Having a strong global reach, the company offers next-generation sorting equipment with continuous investments in R&D. Bühler also works with industry partners on broader initiatives to further digitalize and automate its sorting processes. With the strategy of minibias and sustainable development, it is a competitive sorter in prominent market.
Key Technology
Key Technology is a member of the Duravant family of operating companies, a global leader in intelligent automation and sensor-based sorting and processing line solutions for the food processing, pharmaceutical and industrial sectors. The company’s proprietary sorting equipment uses sophisticated optical sensors and machine vision for better precision and efficiency.
Key Technology is a leading innovator in food processing that specializes in technologies to reduce food waste and optimize product quality. The company has expanded its global footprint by providing integrations of its solutions with automation technologies. Continued technological innovation in AI-driven sorting and real-time monitoring systems has solidified its position in the market. As its product is showing continuous advancement and application, it still stands as a key player of sorting equipment market.
Satake Corporation
For high-performance sorting technology, Satake Corporation is a pioneer and world leader for grain and rice. As a leading manufacturer of food safety and quality based solutions, Global Sorting strives to apply its patented cutting edge technology towards providing innovative sorting machines to rice and grain processing industries that focus on increasing efficiency while minimizing contamination.
With a wealth of experience in the Asia-Pacific region, Satake has strengthened its position to meet the increasing demand for high-quality rice production. The company spends heavily on research and development to coalesce its sorting technologies and increase its product line. Leveraging transformative AI and sensor-based sorting, Satake redefines industry standards and sustains its competitive advantage in the food processing sphere.
Steinert GmbH
The company has developed considerable expertise in metal and mineral processing and have become the world market leader in the field of sorting systems using magnetic and sensor-based sorting systems. The company’s sorting equipment is heavily used in the mining, recycling and waste management industries. It utilize Steinert’s innovative sensor based sorting technology for improved resource recovery while reducing environmental footprint.
With market expansion strategies, the company is providing customized solutions across changing industrial requirements. Drawing on these growth opportunities, Steinert further progresses its R&D efforts in optimization of sorting accuracy and environmental sustainability in order to address demand for metal efficiency in sorting and recycling. With a strong presence in the sorting equipment market, by leveraging the latest advancements in AI and automation.
| Report Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Total Market Size (2025) | USD 5.4 billion |
| Projected Market Size (2035) | USD 11.2 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 7.3% |
| Base Year for Estimation | 2024 |
| Historical Period | 2020 to 2024 |
| Projections Period | 2025 to 2035 |
| Quantitative Units | USD billion for value and thousand units for volume |
| Segments Analyzed - By Product Type | Freefall Sorter, Channel Sorter, Automated Defect Removal (ADR), Belt Sorters, Optical Sorter |
| Segments Analyzed - By End Use | Chemical Industry, Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Plastic Industry, Wood Industry, Agriculture Industry, Packaging Industry, Others |
| Regions Covered | North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and Africa (MEA) |
| Countries Covered | United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, China, India, Japan, South Korea, ANZ (Australia & New Zealand), GCC Countries, South Africa |
| Key Players Influencing the Sorting Equipment Market | Tomra Systems ASA, Bühler Group, Key Technology, Satake Corporation, Steinert GmbH, Sesotec GmbH, Pellenc ST, Raytec Vision, Cimbria, Allgaier Process Technology |
| Additional Attributes | Dollar sales by product type and end use, advancements in machine vision and AI-powered sorting, integration of sorting equipment in smart factories, rising demand in food safety and quality assurance, regulatory influence on adoption in pharmaceutical and food sectors, regional trends in automation and industry 4.0 applications. |
In term of product type, the industry is divided into Freefall Sorter, Channel Sorter, Automated Defect , Removal (ADR), Belt Sorters, Optical Sorter
In term of end use, industry is divided into Chemical Industry, Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Plastic Industry, Wood Industry, Agriculture Industry, Packaging Industry, Others
The report covers key regions, including North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
The global Sorting Equipment market is projected to reach USD 5.4 billion by the end of 2025.
The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% over the forecast period.
By 2035, the Sorting Equipment market is expected to reach USD 11.2 billion.
The Optical Sorter segment is expected to dominate the market, due to high precision, speed, and automation, enabling efficient separation of materials in food, recycling, and mining industries, reducing waste and improving product quality.
Key players in the Sorting Equipment market include Tomra Systems ASA, Bühler Group, Key Technology, Satake Corporation, Steinert GmbH.
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