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Nir Sorting Systems Market
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Nir Sorting Systems Market

Author: Swarup Sahu - Senior Consultant, Report ID - DS1407017, Published - April 2025

Segmented in Application Type (Recycling Facilities, Food Processing, Agriculture, Others), Technology Type (Line Scan, Area Scan, Hyperspectral Imaging), Material Type, Industrial Use and Regions - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Trends, and Forecast 2024 – 2034

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Global Nir Sorting Systems Market Outlook

The market, for Nir sorting systems was estimated at $793.9 million in 2024; and it is anticipated to increase to $1.4 billion by 2030 with projections indicating a growth to around $2.2 billion by 2035. This expansion represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% over the forecast period. This considerable growth rate highlights the critical role NIR Sorting Systems have established in various industries globally. Immediate factors pushing this growth encompass advancements in automation and digital technologies, rising need for efficient waste management solutions, and the constant endeavor for quality control in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Their ongoing relevance is also due to the increasing environmental regulations and practices promoting cleaner and greener solutions, propelling the need for advanced and effective sorting systems.


NIR (Near InfraRed) Sorting Systems are innovative machineries designed to accurately sort materials based on their spectral properties. These systems are typically utilized in recycling facilities, pharmaceutical companies, food processing units, and mining operations, providing a highly efficient means of segregating differents of materials. The systems are increasingly gaining recognition due to their ability to handle different kind of properties like color, shape, structure, and density.


Market Size Forecast & Key Insights

2019
$793M2024
2029
$2.0B2034

Absolute Growth Opportunity = $1.2B

The Nir Sorting Systems market is projected to grow from $793.9 million in 2024 to $1.97 billion in 2034. This represents a CAGR of 9.5%, reflecting rising demand across Recycling, Agricultural and Food Processing Industry.

The Nir Sorting Systems market is set to add $1.2 billion between 2024 and 2034, with industry players targeting Food Processing & Agriculture Application Type projected to gain a larger market share.

With Rise in demand for automated sorting systems, and Growing emphasis on waste management and recycling, Nir Sorting Systems market to expand 148% between 2024 and 2034.

Opportunities in the Nir Sorting Systems Market

Technological Advancements

Recent advancements in NIR Sorting Systems present market opportunities for future growth. Leveraging advancements in technology will not only increase system efficiency but also enhance accuracy. These technologies range from high-resolution imaging and color sorting to user-friendly touch screen interfaces. Continued research and development into these technologies could unlock significant potential for NIR Sorting Systems.

Untapped Industrial Segments and Strategic Collaborations

Several emerging industrial segments are currently untapped, presenting significant growth opportunities for NIR Sorting Systems. Industries such as medical waste management, e-waste recycling, and automotive components recycling have specific sorting needs that can be effectively addressed with NIR Sorting Systems. These systems can be tailored to sort out different materials based on their unique infrared spectral properties, making them indispensable for these industries.

A major exists in forming strategic collaborations with recycling facilities and waste management companies across the globe. These businesses stand to benefit from the high-efficiency operation offered by NIR Sorting Systems, which can significantly increase their waste sorting capacity and accuracy. By forming strategic collaborations, NIR Sorting Systems producers can achieve broader market penetration and access to a larger customer base.

Growth Opportunities in North America and Europe

Europe Outlook

Transitioning towards the European market, the demand for NIR Sorting Systems is also on the rise. Accelerated by strict government regulations and mandates on recycling and waste management, the region has seen a surge in adoption of sophisticated waste sorting technologies. European countries, particularly Germany and the UK, present lucrative opportunities owing to their advanced industry bases. The ever-increasing need for material recovery and recycling in these markets, coupled with intensive competition, is driving the adoption of NIR Sorting Systems. Meanwhile, the drivers in this region also include a definitive move towards a circular economy, fostering the demand for precise and efficient sorting systems.

North America Outlook

The North American market for NIR Sorting Systems boasts a robust stage due to the presence of key market players and technological advancements. The regions growth hinges on the increased automation in industries such as food processing and waste management. The adverse effects of improper waste sorting on the environment have been underscored, prompting enterprises across the region to transition towards efficient sorting solutions such as NIR systems. Intense market competition and the drive towards sustainable practices are significant drivers in this region. The United States, being a major tech hub, presents prominent opportunities for the proliferation of NIR Sorting Systems.

North America Outlook

The North American market for NIR Sorting Systems boasts a robust stage due to the presence of key market players and technological advancements. The regions growth hinges on the increased automation in industries such as food processing and waste management. The adverse effects of improper waste sorting on the environment have been underscored, prompting enterprises across the region to transition towards efficient sorting solutions such as NIR systems. Intense market competition and the drive towards sustainable practices are significant drivers in this region. The United States, being a major tech hub, presents prominent opportunities for the proliferation of NIR Sorting Systems.

Europe Outlook

Transitioning towards the European market, the demand for NIR Sorting Systems is also on the rise. Accelerated by strict government regulations and mandates on recycling and waste management, the region has seen a surge in adoption of sophisticated waste sorting technologies. European countries, particularly Germany and the UK, present lucrative opportunities owing to their advanced industry bases. The ever-increasing need for material recovery and recycling in these markets, coupled with intensive competition, is driving the adoption of NIR Sorting Systems. Meanwhile, the drivers in this region also include a definitive move towards a circular economy, fostering the demand for precise and efficient sorting systems.

Growth Opportunities in North America and Europe

Established and Emerging Market's Growth Trend 2025–2034

1

Major Markets : U.S., Germany, China, Japan, UK are expected to grow at 6.9% to 10.0% CAGR

2

Emerging Markets : Vietnam, Turkey, Brazil are expected to grow at 9.1% to 11.9% CAGR

Market Analysis Chart

The NIR Sorting Systems market is experiencing continuous growth driven by several key factors. This surge is largely attributed to the increasing demand for precise, high-speed sorting in a variety of industries including agriculture, recycling, and food processing. Recyclers worldwide increasingly recognize the necessity of Near-Infrared technology for optimizing waste management and minimizing environmental pollution. Furthermore, advancements in NIR technology, coupled with increased processing speeds, aid in high-volume sorting tasks, enhancing operational efficiency across multiple market segments.

Recent Developments and Technological Advancement

December 2024

TOMRA Sorting Solutions announced the launch of a new upgraded version of its NIR Sorting Systems offering enhanced efficiency and sorting accuracy of recycled materials.

October 2024

National Recovery Technologies introduced its innovative OptiSort NIR Sorting System, ensuring higher throughput and purer material sorting, marking a significant advancement in waste management industry.

August 2024

Sesotec GmbH unveiled its compact NIR Sorting Systems designed for recycling small-sized plastic waste, providing an efficient solution tailored for smaller recycling businesses.

In the sphere of waste management and recycling, Near Infrared Sorting Systems have been capturing significant attention due to their efficacy. Their high-resolution detection capabilities, coupled with robust functionality, make them the first choice for many businesses in the recycling sector. Taking cue from the recent trends, There is a marked rise in automated sorting systems, due to adoption of innovative technologies like NIR.

Impact of Industry Transitions on the Nir Sorting Systems Market

As a core segment of the ITM industry, the Nir Sorting Systems market develops in line with broader industry shifts. Over recent years, transitions such as Automation in Waste Management and Agrifood Industry Revolution have redefined priorities across the ITM sector, influencing how the Nir Sorting Systems market evolves in terms of demand, applications and competitive dynamics. These transitions highlight the structural changes shaping long-term growth opportunities.

1

Automation in Waste Management:

The pervasion of NIR Sorting Systems in the waste management industry is a significant transitionthat'sshaping the landscape. New techdriven initiatives are moving the industry from heavily manual processes to automated ones, elevating efficiency, and accuracy. NIR technology can effectively differentiate between differents of waste based on their spectral properties, permitting more meticulous sorting. This doesnt just streamline operations but also amplifies recycling rates, contributing to a more sustainable ecosystem.

2

Agrifood Industry Revolution:

A noticeable shift in the agrifood sector has been the adoption of NIR Sorting Systems, primarily aimed at maintaining quality control and reducing waste. These systems can detect the subtlest variations in crop quality, enabling farmers or food processors to sort produce, grains, and other commodities swiftly and efficiently. The ripple effects are multifaceted, allowing for enhanced product quality, improved yield, reduced waste, and maximized profitability. These transitions underline the critical role that NIR Sorting Systems are playing in modernizing and optimizing industries.

Global Events Shaping Future Growth

The chart below highlights how external events including emerging market developments, regulatory changes, and technological disruptions , have added another layer of complexity to the ITM industry. These events have disrupted supply networks, changed consumption behavior, and reshaped growth patterns. Together with structural industry transitions, they demonstrate how changes within the ITM industry cascade into the Nir Sorting Systems market, setting the stage for its future growth trajectory.

Impact of global events on parent industry growth from 2020 to 2030

Market Dynamics and Supply Chain

Driver: Rise in Demand for Automated Sorting Systems, and Technological Advancements in Optical Sorting

With automation becoming a growing trend across industries, the demand for NIR Sorting Systems is also projected to increase. These systems use the technique of near-infrared spectroscopy for sorting materials, thus ensuring speed, precision, and efficiency. Particularly in industries such as recycling, food processing, and mining, this increased automation is also expected to foster the growth of specific sorting systems that exploit NIR technology.
Recent technological advancements in the field of optical sorting have also expanded the capabilities of NIR Sorting Systems. New developments in software algorithms and sensor technology are also enabling these systems to detect and distinguish materials with more precision than ever before, fostering growth in industries where the detailed classification of materials is also critical.
The escalating global concern for sustainability and the environment has also led to a surge in waste management and recycling efforts. NIR Sorting Systems play an essential role in these initiatives by enabling the accurate segregation of waste materials based on their spectroscopic profiles. The growth in this application of NIR sorting technology is also predicated upon the ongoing global push towards sustainable practices.

Restraint: High Initial Investment

Investing in NIR Sorting Systems involves a significant upfront cost. These technologically advanced systems require not only the initial purchase of the equipment but also specialized training for operators, regular maintenance, and system upgrades over time. While the return on investment might be high for larger enterprises, small to medium-sized businesses often grapple with financial dilemmas, thereby reducing the demand for such advanced systems.

Challenge: Slow Adoption of Advanced Technology

Another is the slow adoption of advanced technologies such as NIR sorting systems, particularly in developing economies. Many industries are still reliant on traditional sorting methods due to technical skill limitations or resistance to change. This reluctance hinders the market growth and expansion of NIR sorting system manufacturers.

Supply Chain Landscape

Material Sourcing

Systematix

MSK Covertech Group

Component Manufacturing

Sesotec

Sortex Buhler Group

System Assembly
TOMRA Sorting Solutions / Raytec Vision
Market Distribution
Bulk Handling Systems / MSS / Inc
Material Sourcing

Systematix

MSK Covertech Group

Component Manufacturing

Sesotec

Sortex Buhler Group

System Assembly

TOMRA Sorting Solutions

Raytec Vision

Market Distribution

Bulk Handling Systems

MSS

Inc

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Leading Providers and Their Strategies

Application AreaIndustryLeading Providers / ConsumersProvider Strategies
Recycling Systems
Waste Management
TOMRA Sorting Solutions.
Focus on integrating advance sensor-based sorting systems in recycling centers to increase sorting accuracy and efficiency.
Food Processing
Food Industry
Buhler Group
Implementation of NIR Sorting Systems in all stages of food processing to eliminate contaminants and ensure food safety.
Mining Operations
Mineral Processing Industry
Sesotec
Maximizing the potential of NIR technology in detecting and separating valuable minerals from raw ores.
Pharmaceutical Sorting
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Steinert
Steinert uses their NIR systems to ensure accurate and efficient sorting in pharmaceutical production lines, reducing waste and increasing product quality.

Elevate your strategic vision with in-depth analysis of key applications, leading market players & their strategies. Report analyze industry leader's views & statements on Nir Sorting Systems market's present & future growth.

Our research is created following strict editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy

Applications of Nir Sorting Systems in Recycling, Agricultural and Food Processing Industry

Recycling Industry

In the recycling sector, NIR sorting systems are extensively utilized to differentiate and sort various materials based on their chemical composition. These systems, especially spectrometer-based sorting machines, play a pivotal role in streamlining operations. Top players like Tomra and Pellenc ST leverage these systems to ensure efficient material recovery, significantly enhancing their market position.

Agricultural Industry

NIR technology is increasingly pivotal in the agricultural field, where efficient grain and seed sorting can be the difference between profitability and loss. Again, spectrometer-based NIR sorting systems shine in this regard, allowing for high-speed, high-volume sorting of grains with precision. Companies like Buhler AG and Satake Corporation consistently use these systems to improve product quality and reduce waste.

Food Processing Industry

NIR sorting systems have become integral in the food processing industry. More specifically, camera-based NIR sorting systems are used in the sorting of fruits and vegetables. This technology allows for the rapid detection and removal of foreign material or damaged goods, ensuring the end products high quality and safety. Companies such as Key Technology and Sesotec are known for their excellent use of these systems in their operations.

Nir Sorting Systems vs. Substitutes:
Performance and Positioning Analysis

NIR Sorting Systems excel in precision and speed compared to alternatives, finding substantial use in waste management and food industry. Its unique market positioning offers considerable potential for growth in these expanding sectors. These Alternatives specially Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy has experienced a rapid growth as detailed in our latest report.

Nir Sorting Systems
  • Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy /
  • Laser Sorters /
  • X ray Sorting Systems
    High accuracy in material detection, Increased processing speed
    High initial installation cost, Requires regular maintenance
    High precision, ease of use
    High maintenance, high cost of installation

Nir Sorting Systems vs. Substitutes:
Performance and Positioning Analysis

Nir Sorting Systems

  • High accuracy in material detection, Increased processing speed
  • High initial installation cost, Requires regular maintenance

Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy / Laser Sorters / X ray Sorting Systems

  • High precision, ease of use
  • High maintenance, high cost of installation

NIR Sorting Systems excel in precision and speed compared to alternatives, finding substantial use in waste management and food industry. Its unique market positioning offers considerable potential for growth in these expanding sectors. These Alternatives specially Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy has experienced a rapid growth as detailed in our latest report.

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Research Methodology

This market research methodology defines the Nir Sorting Systems market scope, gathers reliable data, and validates findings through integrated primary and secondary research. Our systematic framework ensures precise market sizing, adoption analysis, and competitive benchmarking tailored to solution-driven ecosystems.


Secondary Research Approach


We initiate secondary research by defining the targeted market at both Regional and Country levels. As part of the ITM ecosystem, we analyze Nir Sorting Systems across Recycling Facilities, Food Processing, and Agriculture Applications. Data is systematically gathered from country level ministerial sources, industry associations & federations, company annual & quarterly reports and other credential sources, allowing us to map solution deployment trends, pricing models, compliance requirements, and technology adoption pathways.


Key Sources Referenced:

Prodcom / Census US / Statcan / e-stat Japan / ABS Australia / KOSIS Korea

Annual Reports / Industry Magazines / Country Level Ministerial Sources / World Mining Data

• Trade Sources (USA Trade Census, EU Comext, China Customs)

Interviews of Industry Stake Holders

Industry Views of Consultants

merics.org

• NAICS - Economic Statistics (US, Canada)

DataString Database

We benchmark competitors such as TOMRA Sorting Solutions, Bhler Group, and Key Technology using verified industry reports, customer case studies, company disclosures, and partner ecosystem strategies. Our secondary insights uncover solution-specific drivers and inhibitors, which form the foundation for targeted primary research.


Primary Research Methods


We conduct structured interviews and surveys with solution stakeholders, including Material Sourcing, Component Manufacturing, and System Assembly. Geographic coverage spans North America (45%), Europe (33%), and Asia-Pacific (22%) and Middle East & Africa (5%). Our online surveys generally achieve a 72% response rate, while expert interviews deliver an 86% engagement level, resulting in a 93% confidence level with ±6.1% margin of error.


Through targeted questionnaires and in-depth interviews, we capture adoption motivators, integration challenges, return-on-investment perceptions, and solution stickiness across enterprise segments. These primary insights validate secondary findings and align market sizing with real-world conditions.


Market Engineering and Data Analysis Framework


Our data analysis framework integrates Top-Down, Bottom-Up, and Adoption-Rate modeling to forecast solution demand with precision.


Top-down and Bottom-up Process


In the Top-down approach, we disaggregate global ITM revenues to estimate the Nir Sorting Systems segment, leveraging enterprise digitalization budgets and IT spending patterns. In the Bottom-up approach, we aggregate deployment data at the country and vertical levels, considering subscription volumes, integration projects, and solution renewals to forecast regional and global adoption. By reconciling both approaches, we ensure statistical robustness and forecast reliability.


We further map the solution delivery value chain spanning Material Sourcing (Systematix, MSK Covertech Group), Component Manufacturing (Sesotec, Sortex Buhler Group), and System Assembly. Our parallel substitute analysis examines Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy, Laser Sorters, and X ray Sorting Systems, highlighting diversification opportunities and competitive risks.


Company Market Share and Benchmarking


We benchmark leading solution providers such as TOMRA Sorting Solutions, Bhler Group, and Key Technology, analyzing their strengths in deployment scalability, integration capabilities, customer retention, and partner ecosystem development. Company revenues, case deployments, and recurring revenue streams are assessed to estimate market shares and clarify competitive positioning.


Our integration of triangulated data, ecosystem mapping, and solution benchmarking, enhanced by our proprietary Directional Superposition methodology, ensures precise forecasts and actionable strategic insights into the Nir Sorting Systems market.


Quality Assurance and Compliance


We cross-reference secondary data with primary inputs and external expert reviews to confirm consistency. Further, we use stratified sampling, anonymous surveys, third-party interviews, and time-based sampling to reduce bias and strengthen our results.


Our methodology is developed in alignment with ISO 20252 standards and ICC/ESOMAR guidelines for research ethics. The study methodology follows globally recognized frameworks such as ISO 20252 and ICC codes of practice.

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Nir Sorting Systems Market Data: Size, Segmentation & Growth Forecast

Report AttributeDetails
Market Value in 2025USD 869 million
Revenue Forecast in 2034USD 1.97 billion
Growth RateCAGR of 9.5% from 2025 to 2034
Base Year for Estimation2024
Industry Revenue 2024793 million
Growth OpportunityUSD 1.2 billion
Historical Data2019 - 2023
Growth Projection / Forecast Period2025 - 2034
Market Size UnitsMarket Revenue in USD million and Industry Statistics
Market Size 2024793 million USD
Market Size 20271.04 billion USD
Market Size 20291.25 billion USD
Market Size 20301.37 billion USD
Market Size 20341.97 billion USD
Market Size 20352.15 billion USD
Report CoverageMarket revenue for past 5 years and forecast for future 10 years, Competitive Analysis & Company Market Share, Strategic Insights & trends
Segments CoveredApplication Type, Technology Type, Material Type, Industrial Use
Regional scopeNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa
Country scopeU.S., Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE and South Africa
Companies ProfiledTOMRA Sorting Solutions, Bhler Group, Key Technology, Meyer, Sesotec GmbH, Pellenc ST, NRT, Raytec Vision SpA, Unisensor, Steinert Group, Newtec and CP Manufacturing
CustomizationFree customization at segment, region or country scope and direct contact with report analyst team for 10 to 20 working hours for any additional niche requirement which is almost equivalent to 10% of report value

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Table of Contents

Industry Insights Report - Table Of Contents

Chapter 1

Executive Summary

Major Markets & Their Performance - Statistical Snapshots

Chapter 2

Research Methodology

2.1Axioms & Postulates
2.2Market Introduction & Research MethodologyEstimation & Forecast Parameters / Major Databases & Sources
Chapter 3

Market Dynamics

3.1Market OverviewDrivers / Restraints / Opportunities / M4 Factors
3.2Market Trends
3.2.1Introduction & Narratives
3.2.2Market Trends - Impact Analysis(Short, Medium & Long Term Impacts)
3.3Supply Chain Analysis
3.4Porter's Five ForcesSuppliers & Buyers' Bargaining Power, Threat of Substitution & New Market Entrants, Competitive Rivalry
Chapter 4

Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities & Strategic Insights, by Application Type

4.1Recycling Facilities
4.2Food Processing
4.3Agriculture
4.4Others
Chapter 5

Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities & Strategic Insights, by Technology Type

5.1Line Scan
5.2Area Scan
5.3Hyperspectral Imaging
Chapter 6

Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities & Strategic Insights, by Material Type

6.1Glass
6.2Plastic
6.3Paper
6.4Organic Waste
Chapter 7

Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities & Strategic Insights, by Industrial Use

7.1Waste Management
7.2Quality Control
7.3Contamination Detection
Chapter 8

Nir Sorting Systems Market, by Region

8.1North America Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.1.1U.S.
8.1.2Canada
8.2Europe Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.2.1Germany
8.2.2France
8.2.3UK
8.2.4Italy
8.2.5The Netherlands
8.2.6Rest of EU
8.3Asia Pacific Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.3.1China
8.3.2Japan
8.3.3South Korea
8.3.4India
8.3.5Australia
8.3.6Thailand
8.3.7Rest of APAC
8.4Middle East & Africa Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.4.1Saudi Arabia
8.4.2United Arab Emirates
8.4.3South Africa
8.4.4Rest of MEA
8.5Latin America Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.5.1Brazil
8.5.2Mexico
8.5.3Rest of LA
8.6CIS Nir Sorting Systems Market Size, Opportunities, Key Trends & Strategic Insights
8.6.1Russia
8.6.2Rest of CIS
Chapter 9

Competitive Landscape

9.1Competitive Dashboard & Market Share Analysis
9.2Company Profiles (Overview, Financials, Developments, SWOT)
9.2.1TOMRA Sorting Solutions
9.2.2Bhler Group
9.2.3Key Technology
9.2.4Meyer
9.2.5Sesotec GmbH
9.2.6Pellenc ST
9.2.7NRT
9.2.8Raytec Vision SpA
9.2.9Unisensor
9.2.10Steinert Group
9.2.11Newtec
9.2.12CP Manufacturing