Corrugated Sheets Market Report

The paper-based corrugated sheets segment is the leading force in the global corrugated sheets market, driven by the growing demand for sustainable and cost-efficient packaging solutions. This segment benefits from increasing e-commerce sales, where packaging plays a crucial role in brand presentation and logistical efficiency. As e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Staples push for fit-to-product (FtP) systems, customized, right-sized corrugated packaging is replacing traditional, oversized boxes. Furthermore, the surge in digital printing technologies has enabled high-quality graphics on secondary packaging, enhancing customer engagement. Notably, as per one of the studies in 2023, corrugated paper emerged as the world’s most traded product, with a trade value exceeding US$ 2.51 billion, reinforcing its dominant role in the global market.

The food and beverage industry is the leading segment in the global corrugated sheets market, driven by the increasing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions. According to Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), many food industries, especially start-ups, are turning to eco-friendly, paper-based kraft packaging materials, which are perceived as better for the environment. However, corrugated packaging is biodegradable, recyclable, and plays a crucial role in reducing waste, with 89% of corrugated products being recovered and recycled. The increased demand for corrugated materials has been accompanied by PCA mentioning sustainable forestry relationships. Besides, the recent increasing frequency of meal kits and subscription grocery services has raised the demand for corrugated solutions and re-established its dominance as the packaging choice of preference for food and beverage products.

The global corrugated sheets market is experiencing substantial growth driven by increasing demand in agriculture and construction. In agriculture, the shift toward sustainable packaging solutions is raising the use of corrugated sheets for packaging fresh produce. These sheets offer significant advantages, including better protection during transit, enhanced ventilation, and customizable designs to prevent product damage. The rise in e-commerce and retail supply chains further propels this demand. Additionally, corrugated pallets are emerging as a preferred alternative to traditional wood and plastic, offering reduced weight, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability. Applications of lightweight and insulated corrugated sheets continue to gain traction in the construction sector, especially for energy-efficient building systems and cold storage facilities. These developments offer numerous chances for expansion, particularly regarding sustainable practices and energy efficiency.

The global corrugated sheets market faces several challenges driven by raw material cost volatility. Wood pulp prices are heavily influenced by a supply-demand imbalance, particularly with rising demand from regions like Asia. Simultaneously, a lot of logistical challenges such as shortage of containers and port congestions continue to disrupt the on-time movement of raw materials and drive up their cost. Environmental pressures do the same thing, through stronger forest management practices and stricter regulations over sustainability that drive up the cost of certified sustainable materials. Further, the commodity prices and the volatile oil prices related to agricultural commodity markets subject starch and adhesives to price fluctuations, affecting production costs. With governments enforcing stricter regulations over hazardous chemicals, manufacturers have to sustain a cost with eco-friendly alternatives, which could strain operational costs.

The global corrugated sheets market faces significant challenges due to fluctuating demand driven by various factors. Economic slowdowns and recessions lead to reduced production and lower consumer spending on non-essential goods, impacting packaging needs in sectors like luxury goods and electronics. Shifting consumer preferences, such as a rise in local buying habits or minimalistic packaging, also influence demand for traditional corrugated solutions. Seasonality in e-commerce and retail often takes the shape of cyclical demand variability, followed by slower periods. Further, global supply chain breakdowns due to natural causes or political tension might briefly drop demand. Furthermore, the growing trend toward sustainable packaging alternatives, such as biodegradable or reusable options, is altering demand patterns, especially during the transitional phase.

Major market leaders use marketing strategies of new product innovations, mergers with other companies, and the acquisition of new businesses to expand their customers and increase their line of products. In August 2024, United Kingdom building materials supplier Build4less launched its new B4L roofing range. This collection featured various roofing options, including corrugated bitumen and polycarbonate sheets, designed for both residential and commercial projects. With an emphasis on durability, affordability, and ease of installation, the launch aimed to meet growing demand in the home improvement sector, offering enhanced choice and value for DIYers and professionals.

However, in February 2024, Kite Packaging introduced its corrugated fan fold, a flexible, on-demand solution for businesses to produce customized boxes efficiently. This product, with its C flute corrugation, offers enhanced durability and stacking strength for secure product handling and shipping. FSC certified, it supports sustainability efforts while streamlining inventory management and reducing lead times, meeting evolving packaging needs swiftly.

Moreover, in January 2024, WestRock revealed plans to establish a new corrugated box manufacturing plant in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, in order to address the rising demand in the Great Lakes region. The company aimed to close its North Chicago facility upon completion. The US$ 140 million investment was expected to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs, and improve sustainability. With advanced technology, the new plant was designed to boost quality, digital capabilities, and customer satisfaction across key regional industries.
Furthermore, in August 2023, Corrugated Partners Group declared a US$ 52.7 million investment to set up a new manufacturing facility in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. The facility, named Keystone Sheets, will span 420,000 square feet at 1465 Nitterhouse Drive in Chambersburg. The plant will primarily produce single, double, and triple-wall corrugated sheets for box manufacturing, catering to the mid-Atlantic region. This expansion is expected to create around 80 new jobs over the next three years, following significant private investment in the state.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is the dominant force in the global corrugated sheets market, driven by rapid urbanization and a growing middle class. As per the data cited by, Asia Development Bank, over 55% of Asia's population is expected to live in urban regions by 2030, fuelling the demand for packaged goods and retail packaging solutions. The Asia Pacific region is also embracing the prominent move towards sustainability, as recyclable and environmentally friendly materials such as corrugated sheets are meeting increased demand in markets like Japan and South Korea. The rapidly growing e-commerce industry in this region is transforming retail models and increasing the demand for effective logistics and contemporary warehousing solutions. The 3PLs services market in APAC is anticipated to surpass US$ 538.2 billion in 2023, further enhancing the corrugated package demand to support inventory management and distribution.

North America is emerging as the fastest-growing region in the global corrugated sheets market, driven by several key trends. According to the Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce, United States retail e-commerce sales reached US$ 288.8 billion in Q3 2024, reflecting a 7.5% year-over-year increase, which significantly boosts the demand for durable, cost-effective corrugated packaging. In addition, the food and beverage industry experiences significant demand as it seeks more moisture-resistant packaging for perishable items. Building construction is another source of growth, mainly for temporary construction and insulations through corrugated sheets. Major players like International Paper Company, WestRock, and Georgia-Pacific are leading the charge by innovating in sustainability and customization. However, e-commerce and stricter regulations regarding sustainability are the primary factors in increasing demand in North America for corrugated recyclable solutions.