Corrugated Boxes Market Report by Material Used, End-Use, and Region 2024-2032

The global corrugated boxes market size reached US$ 203.7 billion in 2023. The market is projected to reach US$ 247.9 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.2% during 2023-2032. The significant expansion in the e-commerce industry, the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions, and the increasing utilization of corrugated boxes for customization and branding applications in several industries are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Corrugated boxes are a type of packaging commonly used in the shipping and storage industry. They are made from a versatile material called corrugated cardboard, which consists of three layers of paper, two flat liner boards on the outside, and a wavy fluted layer in the middle. This unique construction provides strength, rigidity, and protection to the boxes. The fluted layer in corrugated boxes acts as a cushioning agent, absorbing shocks and impacts during handling and transportation, making them highly suitable for packaging delicate and fragile items, such as glassware, electronics, or ceramics, providing a protective barrier against potential damage. Additionally, they are available in various shapes and sizes, from standard rectangular cartons to custom-designed packaging solutions. They can also be easily customized to meet specific requirements, allowing for efficient utilization of space and optimization of product protection.

The market is primarily driven by the expanding food and beverage (F&B) industry. In addition, the escalating demand for corrugated boxes for storing, protecting, transporting, and promoting products is contributing to the market growth. In line with this, the several benefits of corrugated solutions such as strong, lightweight, cost-effective, and excellent protection during logistics are influencing the market growth. Moreover, several advancements in packaging design and printing technology allow the creation of attractive and functional corrugated boxes, representing another major growth-inducing factor. Besides this, the rising consumer awareness regarding environmental issues associated with non-biodegradable and plastic-based packaging materials is accelerating the adoption of recyclable corrugated boxes. Furthermore, the rising research and development (R&D) activities to improve the sustainable properties, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability of corrugated boxes is creating a positive market outlook.

Corrugated Boxes Market Trends/Drivers

The significant expansion in the e-commerce industry

The rise of online shopping has led to an increased need for packaging materials, with corrugated boxes being a primary choice for shipping and delivering products to customers. The e-commerce sector relies heavily on these boxes due to their durability, versatility, cost-effectiveness, and the escalating demand for customized packaging solutions is contributing to the market growth. E-commerce companies understand the importance of branding and creating a unique unboxing experience that is possible with corrugated boxes as they can be easily customized with company logos, graphics, and designs, allowing businesses to enhance their brand identity and leave a lasting impression on customers. Furthermore, the e-commerce industry places a strong emphasis on product protection during shipping and corrugated boxes provide excellent cushioning and structural integrity, ensuring that products arrive safely at their destination.

The rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions

The increasing awareness and importance of environmental sustainability have led to a growing demand for eco-friendly packaging options leading to the widespread adoption of corrugated boxes. Moreover, corrugated boxes are made from renewable and recyclable materials, primarily paperboard derived from trees. As consumers and businesses become more conscious of their ecological footprint, they are seeking packaging solutions that minimize environmental impact. Besides this, corrugated boxes can be easily recycled after use, which helps conserve resources, reduce waste sent to landfills, and promote a more sustainable economy. Furthermore, the lightweight nature of corrugated boxes contributes to energy efficiency during transportation, requires less fuel, and generates fewer carbon emissions during shipping, which is also contributing to market growth.

The increasing product use for customization and branding applications in several industries

The growing customization and branding applications in various industries have driven the adoption of corrugated boxes. Businesses across sectors such as e-commerce, retail, food and beverage, and cosmetics are increasingly recognizing the value of packaging as a marketing tool. In addition, corrugated boxes can be easily customized with logos, graphics, and branding elements, allowing companies to create a distinct visual identity and enhance their brand recognition. This ability to customize packaging to specific products and brand aesthetics has made corrugated boxes a popular choice, enabling businesses to deliver a unique unboxing experience that resonates with consumers and reinforces their brand image.

Corrugated Boxes Industry Segmentation:

The report provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global corrugated boxes market report, along with forecasts at the global and regional levels from 2023-2032. The report has categorized the market based on material used and end use.

Breakup by Material Used:

• Recycled Corrugates
• Virgin Corrugates

Recycled corrugates dominate the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the material used. This includes recycled and virgin corrugates. According to the report, recycled corrugated boxes represented the largest segment.

The increasing consumer awareness regarding environmental issues and the importance of minimizing carbon footprint is generating a favorable outlook for the market. In addition to that, corrugated boxes produced from recycled fibers offer several advantages, including durability, lightweight, and cost-effectiveness. As a result, they are widely utilized in packaging applications for cosmetics, consumer electronics, and fast-food products. Moreover, the implementation of several government policies and standards promoting the use of recycled materials and sustainable packaging practices led to the widespread adoption of recycled corrugated materials as businesses seek to comply with these regulations and meet sustainability targets. Besides, various technological advancements and manufacturing processes that ensure that recycled corrugated boxes possess the necessary strength, durability, and protective properties required for packaging various products represent another leading factor increasing the market share of these boxes.

Breakup by End Use:

• Food Products and Beverages
• Paper Products
• Electrical and Electronic Goods
• Personal Care and Household Goods
• Chemicals
• Glassware and Ceramics
• Textile Goods
• Others

Food Products and Beverages hold the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end use has also been provided in the report. This includes food products and beverages, paper products, electrical and electronic goods, personal care and household goods, chemicals, glassware and ceramics, textile goods, and others. According to the report, food products and beverages accounted for the largest market share.

Corrugated boxes are widely utilized as secondary packaging solutions for various products, including processed food, dairy items, and confectioneries due to their lightweight nature, structural rigidity, and ability to provide cushioning during transportation. Additionally, corrugated boxes are extensively employed in the food delivery sector for packaging ready-to-eat (RTE) products such as burgers, pizza, cookies, and cakes. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging and product recycling has further contributed to the adoption of corrugated boxes as they are produced from non-toxic materials and are considered environmentally friendly, aligning with the sustainability objectives of many businesses. Besides, there is rising demand for secured and hygienic packaging option for food products and beverages as corrugated boxes offer protection against physical damage, contamination, and moisture, ensuring that the products remain fresh and safe during transportation and storage.

Breakup by Region:

• Asia-Pacific
• Europe
• North America
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Asia-Pacific exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest corrugated boxes market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia-Pacific was the largest market for corrugated boxes.

Asia-Pacific held the biggest market share since the region is growing due to the expanding e-commerce industry and the increasing consumer preference toward online shopping. Moreover, the increasing demand for high-speed and cost-effective internet access is presenting remunerative growth opportunities for the market. Besides this, the increasing product application in several industries such as electronic goods, automotive components, home care, and personal care products is influencing the market growth. Another contributing aspect is rapid urbanization in the Asia-Pacific leading to the development of modern infrastructure, including logistics networks, warehousing facilities, and transportation systems which support the growth of industries and facilitate the product demand in the region. Moreover, Asia-Pacific is known for its cost-effective manufacturing capabilities. Hence, the production of corrugated boxes, including their raw materials is more affordable in the region compared to other parts of the world.

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the market is dynamic and diverse, with numerous players competing for market share. Presently, the leading players are providing comprehensive packaging solutions, including corrugated boxes. They are offering providing customized packaging solutions for different sectors, using advanced technologies and design capabilities. Besides this, they are developing sustainable packaging solutions tailored to meet customer requirements. Furthermore, various leading manufacturers are developing and launching corrugated cardboard boxes for e-commerce shipments of medical devices featuring a single-material solution in place of glued packaging with a single-use plastic insert. They are also investing in facility expansions and mergers and acquisitions (M&As) to strengthen their foothold in the market.

Competition Analysis

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• International Paper Company
• Nine Dragons Worldwide (China) Investment Group Co., Ltd.
• WestRock Company
• Smurfit Kappa Group plc
• Lee and Man Paper Manufacturing Ltd.

Recent Developments:

In March 2021, International Paper successfully finalized the purchase of two modern corrugated box plants located in Spain in March 2021. This is expected to enhance the company's operational capacities in the regions of Madrid and Catalonia.

In 2019 March, WestRock Company expanded its portfolio of automated packaging systems through the acquisition of Linkx Packaging Systems. By integrating Linkx Packaging Systems into its portfolio, WestRock Company anticipated significant growth in revenue and increased production capacity in the future, a proactive step towards strengthening WestRock Company's position in the packaging industry and further establishing itself as a leader in automated packaging solutions.

In November 2022, Smurfit Kappa Group plc invested 22 million USD in its manufacturing plants in Olomouc in the Czech Republic and Obaly Sturovo in Slovakia respectively for expanding its business. The two operations received extensive modifications, including the installation of advanced technology to increase production and meet the escalating customer demand for paper-based packaging solutions.

Key Questions Answered in This Report

1. What was the size of the global corrugated boxes market in 2023?
2. What is the expected growth rate of the global corrugated boxes market during 2024-2032?
3. What are the key factors driving the global corrugated boxes market?
4. What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global corrugated boxes market?
5. What is the breakup of the global corrugated boxes market based on the material used?
6. What is the breakup of the global corrugated boxes market based on the end use?
7. What are the key regions in the global corrugated boxes market?
8. Who are the key players/companies in the global corrugated boxes market?