(USA, May 25, 2023) The first quarter of 2024 was marked by a series of unexpected events that shook the pulp and paper industry, leaving a significant impact on various aspects of the sector. From labor strikes in Finland to a notable decline in production and a surge in market prices, the industry experienced a whirlwind of changes.

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(Toronto, Canada, May 25, 2024) The global packaging market size is estimated to grow by USD 268.37 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio’s latest market research report titled Global Packaging Market 2024-2028. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.29% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

The global food delivery and takeaway market is booming due to urbanization, busy lifestyles, and widespread mobile phone use. Increased online platforms drive online food ordering, preferred for convenience and discounts. Many restaurants offer competitive prices through online services, supported by efficient supply chains. Dark kitchens, producing food for delivery, further fuel market growth. Key players like Delivery Hero and Uber Eats dominate, with Australia's market seeing significant growth. Packaging products like containers and cups are essential for delivered food, indicating anticipated growth in the packaging market.

Key companies profiled in the report

Amcor Group GmbH, Ball Corp., Berry Global Inc., Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH, Crown Holdings Inc., Gerresheimer AG, Huhtamaki Oyj, International Paper Co., Mondi Plc, Oji Holdings Corp., Pregis LLC, Pretium Packaging, Sealed Air Corp., Smurfit Kappa, Sonoco Products Co., Stora Enso Oyj, Tetra Laval SA, UPM Kymmene Corp., WestRock Co., and Winpak Ltd.

Board

The board segment, or paperboard, is set to grow notably in the forecast period due to its foldability, rigidity, and suitability for packaging. Valued at USD 329.11 billion in 2018, it offers various types like folding boxboards, chipboards, and bleached paperboards, widely used in medical, cosmetic, and food packaging. Increasing demand for personalized packaging with innovative designs and graphics enhances consumer attraction. This growing demand for paperboard, especially bleached paperboard, is expected to drive market growth, supported by its lightweight and strong attributes.

Research Analysis

In the diverse landscape of packaging options catering to various industries such as food, beverages, personal care, and retail, the emphasis on quality, presentation, and eco-friendliness is paramount. Food packaging, in particular, occupies a significant niche within this market. From high-barrier films to stand-up retort pouches, the range of options is extensive. Materials such as paper, glass, and metal offer versatility and durability, meeting the demands of different products and consumer preferences. Printing technologies, including flexography and digital, contribute to enhancing branding and visual appeal.

In the realm of beauty and personal care, trends like slimline collections and fiber-based egg cartons showcase innovation in both design and sustainability. Emerging technologies such as advanced film technology and lightweight foam plastics address evolving consumer needs while minimizing environmental impact.

Regulations governing packaging materials underscore the importance of biodegradability and recyclability, driving the industry towards more sustainable practices. Additionally, rigid protective packaging and e-commerce solutions like PaperBox cater to the diverse requirements of modern supply chains and retail environments.

Overall, the packaging market continues to evolve, driven by a combination of consumer preferences, technological advancements, and regulatory mandates, with food packaging playing a central role in this dynamic landscape.

Market Research Overview

In the dynamic landscape of packaging solutions, Paper and Paperboard Container and Packaging stand out as versatile options. From food to personal care and department store items, their presence is undeniable. These containers offer a balance of quality, presentation, and eco-friendliness, meeting the demands of discerning consumers and regulatory standards alike. Whether it's high-barrier films, stand-up retort pouches, or sleek fiber-based egg cartons in beauty and personal care, paper and paperboard containers excel in delivering both functionality and aesthetics.

Moreover, in the era of advancing technology, these containers aren't lagging behind. They embrace printing technologies like flexography and digital printing, ensuring vibrant and customizable designs that enhance brand identity. Additionally, they adapt to emerging trends such as lightweight foam plastics, catering to evolving consumer preferences and sustainability concerns.

In the realm of e-commerce and protective packaging, PaperBox solutions offer a robust answer to diverse needs. From rigid protection to eco-friendly wrapping, they provide a comprehensive solution that aligns with modern demands for convenience and sustainability. (Source: press release)

(Heidenheim, Germany, May 27, 2025) Voith has been commissioned by Middle East Paper Company (MEPCO) for the construction of an entire production line for recycled containerboard at MEPCO's Jeddah mill in Saudi Arabia.

The new Voith XcelLine paper machine, PM 5, will have the capacity to produce 450,000 tons per year of test liner and corrugated medium in the basis weight range of 70 to 140 gsm. The planned design speed is 1,600m/min.

The new paper machine will almost double MEPCO's production capacity at its Jeddah site.

"We are very pleased to be able to further strengthen and expanding our leading market position in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries with this highly efficient production line and state-of-the-art technologies from Voith," said Sami Al Safran, President and CEO of MEPCO.

Joachim Huber, Regional Account & Sales Manager at Voith Paper, explained, "With the new PM 5 production line, we will supply an efficient system that enables optimized and resource-saving production of recycled fiber-based container grades (RCCM). Our latest automation and digitalization technologies will further improve availability and efficiency of the plant and complete the full-line supplier scope of supply for MEPCO."

Voith's scope of supply also includes the basic and detail engineering as well as erection and commissioning supervision of the line.

Further, MEPCO will benefit from a comprehensive fabrics package and a wide range of automation and digitalization solutions from Voith's Papermaking 4.0 portfolio including field instruments for the entire line, OnControl MCS/DCS, OnQuality MD/CD control, OnCare solutions for condition monitoring and asset management, OnEfficiency solutions for process optimization and a unified user interface.

The start-up of the complete production line is scheduled for Q4 2027. (Source: press release)

(Sao Paulo, Brazil, May 25, 2024) Suzano S.A. in response to Official Letter No. 384/2024-SLS, sent by the Listing and Issuer Supervision Superintendence of B3 S.A. (a stock exchange located in São Paulo, Brazil,) on May 21st, 2024 ("Letter"), and received by the Company on the same date, the Company hereby provides the following clarifications:

In response to the request presented by B3 through the Official Letter, the Company clarifies that news regarding a potential transaction involving Suzano and the International Paper Company ("International Paper") have been disclosed in the media since May 7th, 2024, which appears to have impacted Company's shares price and trading volume.

Regarding this matter, the Company disclosed, in compliance with the obligations set forth in the Brazilian Corporation Law and CVM Resolution No. 44, as well as in response to an Official Letter issued by the CVM, a Material Fact and Notice to the Market through which it clarified to shareholders and the market in general that it continuously analyzes market opportunities for potential transactions, without, at that time, any formal document, agreement, act, or decision by the Company that could constitute a material fact.

More recently, a new report regarding a potential operation between the Company and International Paper was published on the Reuters' website1 on May 20th, 2024. The Company believes that the fluctuation experienced in the shares price on May 21st, 2024, is likely due to this news.

Nevertheless, considering the occurrence of atypical fluctuations, the Company confirms its interest in International Paper assets. However, it reiterates that, up to the moment, there is no agreement, binding or otherwise, nor any decision or deliberation by the Company's management regarding a potential operation that meets the minimum materiality required to qualify as a material fact.

The Company further informs that it conducted relevant internal investigations and inquiries with its administrators regarding the media report before providing this clarification.

Finally, the Company reaffirms its commitment to keep the market duly informed about any relevant information.

1 Exclusive: Brazil's Suzano discusses higher bid for International Paper, sources say

Suzano is the world's largest producer of hardwood pulp and a global leader in the innovation and production of renewable, bio-based materials for consumer and industrial use. (Source: Suzano)

(Duino, Italy, May 27, 2024) Mondi  held a groundbreaking ceremony in Duino, Italy, today laying the cornerstone on its €200 million investment in the mill acquired in January 2023. The facility’s existing paper machine is being converted into a high-quality recycled containerboard machine which will create job opportunities for current and potential employees, build and evolve partnerships with local stakeholders as well as contribute to the region’s overall economic development.

The start-up of the new machine is expected in 2025. Once fully operational, it will be capable of producing 420,000 tonnes of recycled containerboard for sustainable packaging solutions and will be Mondi’s widest recycled paper machine at 8.5 meters. Where possible, the mill will source materials locally in order to contribute to the local economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions through shorter transport distances and strengthen supply chain resilience.

“We are excited about the progress of the Duino investment project and the opportunity this provides our growing packaging business,” says Andrew King, CEO of Mondi Group. “This containerboard machine will strengthen our backward integration and provide us with security of supply to better serve our customers.”

“Our investment in Duino allows us to meet the increasing demand for sustainable solutions across Central Europe, the Mediterranean area, and the local Italian market. The project team is currently preparing for the upcoming construction works, with a new recycled fibre plant, wastewater treatment plant and the associated infrastructure and warehousing,” says Markus Gärtner, CEO Mondi Corrugated Packaging. (Source: press release)