Abstract
US demand to approach $41 billion in 2012
Demand for corrugated and paperboard boxes is expected to rise 2.5% annually
through 2012 to nearly $41 billion, with gains driven by an increase in
manufacturing activity in both nondurable and durable goods. In addition,
advances will be bolstered by the increasing importance of higher-value boxes
offering improved printing and graphics capabilities as producers seek ways to
boost the aesthetic appeal of boxes in the face of competition from
alternative packaging. While boxes with more sophisticated graphics are
typically more prevalent in the folding carton segment, changes in the retail
landscape, including the popularity of warehouse club stores, have also
prompted corrugated box makers to develop boxes that serve as attractive
billboards.
Corrugated, solid fiber boxes to grow most rapidly
Corrugated and solid fiber boxes, which accounted for more than 70% of demand
in 2007, will register the fastest growth based on their well-entrenched
position as low-cost shipping containers in virtually all manufacturing
sectors. Growth will also stem from the good environmental profile of
corrugated boxes, which will become increasingly advantageous as interest in
sustainable packaging continues to rise. In addition, value gains will be
supported by rising demand for boxes utilizing more expensive white top
linerboard grades that can accommodate high-quality printing.
Folding paperboard box demand wlll rise slower than corrugated box growth as
folding cartons face heightened competition in many markets from alternative
packaging such as pouches. In addition, a sharp deceleration in beverage
shipments -- a major folding carton market -- will restrain demand. Demand for
set-up boxes will primarily be driven by surging low-cost imports, as the
labor intensive nature of such containers makes them more amenable to
production in countries like China, which have substantially lower labor costs
than the US.
Study coverage
It presents historical demand data (1997, 2002, 2007) as well as forecasts for
2012 and 2017 for boxes by type and market. In addition, the study evaluates
company market shares and profiles 27 industry competitors.
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