The last five years in the URB (Uncoated Recycled Board), aka chipboard, market have been some of the most volatile in the past 50 years. We have seen the market near all-time lows at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, then swinging to an all-time high during the three-year “COVID rebound.”

We have now settled into another unique period. Paper mills are on the slower side, but with limited domestic capacity for producing URB/chipboard, we have seen pricing remain steady. Some other paperboard sources have seen a drop in pricing due to strong capacity and low demand, but the supply/demand in chipboard keeps the market steady.

TRENDS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE MARKET

You can’t help but hear about how AI is changing everything these days. In packaging, robotics are also making a big splash in how companies do business. Manufacturers are constantly investing in automation with the shrinking labor force. 
Sustainability is another big mover in paper industry. Customers desire — and are sometimes required to — have sustainable packaging that incorporates pre- or post-consumer recycled content, and can also be recycled. we are continuously striving for a zero-waste future by helping you package products efficiently, using nearly 100% recycled paperboard, and recycling our own waste, including metals, plastics, and 100% of paper waste.

SUPPLY CHAIN AND OPERATIONS TRENDS

Supply is more widely available on a global level. Many Asian and European paper mills are pushing sales in China. This creates competition with domestic mills and allows for more supply options for our customers.

And, as all industries face inflation and economic uncertainty, we need continues to invest in talented people and high-end converting equipment to stay on top of our competition.
Being agile and identifying and solving problems quickly can mean the difference between stalled sales - or worse - and a company that flourishes even during challenging economic times.