The packaging industry outlook for 2026

Take a closer look at some of the biggest topics and trends that industry leaders expect will shape commodity markets, dealmaking and the future of packaging policy.

By Packaging Dive Staff • Jan. 30, 2026

International Paper expects at least 7 closures, 700+ layoffs in 2026

The cuts in the Europe, Middle East and Africa business are part of IP’s ongoing optimization plan.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 29, 2026

International Paper to split into 2 companies

The announcement about spinning off a publicly traded company for the Europe, Middle East and Africa business comes one year after Memphis, Tennessee-based IP acquired London-based DS Smith.

By Katie Pyzyk • Updated Jan. 29, 2026

PCA details efficiency gains at upgraded Greif mills

After an “unusual” 2025, a “more positive vibe” is emerging among containerboard customers, said Packaging Corporation of America executives. Plus, they’re assessing impacts from the recent winter storm.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 28, 2026

Greif emphasizes cost-cutting, organic growth in 2026

Weak industrial demand impacted Greif’s performance across metals, closures, fibers and customized polymers. The company is forging ahead on cost optimization efforts, but is also investing in its commercial teams.

By Maria Rachal • Jan. 28, 2026

Stephen Gould’s new CEO talks the ‘art’ of integration

It’s a new chapter for the nearly 90-year-old packaging and supply chain services provider. Justin Golden took over the long-standing family business this month.

By Maria Rachal • Jan. 27, 2026

PCA is first major containerboard producer with price increase in 2026

Analysts expected at least one increase this year as operating rates rise following a 10% capacity pullback in North America. International Paper announced a similar increase on Monday.

By Katie Pyzyk • Updated Jan. 27, 2026

Out: M&A megadeals. In: Streamlining and private equity transactions.

Packaging M&A in 2026 will likely involve more — but smaller — deals, analysts say. Recent megadeals will drive divestitures, and numerous private equity-owned companies are approaching the end of their hold period.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 22, 2026

US Plastics Pact names interim leader as CEO exits

A familiar face at USPP has taken over as interim executive director following Jonathan Quinn’s departure. 

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 22, 2026

Sonoco COO to exit after 40-plus years at company

Sonoco does not intend to appoint a new chief operating officer once Rodger Fuller retires in late February. Fuller held a variety of leadership roles during his tenure, including interim CEO for Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA. 

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 21, 2026

What 2026 holds after containerboard’s historic 10% capacity pullback

Following a “mild recession,” recovery could be in store — but not a big one. Muted consumer spending will play a large role, say analysts from Bloomberg Intelligence, BofA Securities, RaboResearch and Truist Securities.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 15, 2026

Butterfly Equity acquires ePac

Butterfly is “the right partner that understands and speaks our language,” said Virag Patel, co-founder and CEO of digitally printed flexible packaging specialist ePac, whose investors included Amcor.

By Maria Rachal • Jan. 15, 2026

Buckeye Corrugated, Specialty Packaging Group open new facilities

A couple of U.S.-based companies also expanded their presence overseas.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 14, 2026

5 packaging industry trends to watch in 2026

Long-anticipated EPR and labeling regulations are poised to have very real impacts. The M&A cycle is advancing. And is there nowhere to go but up for containerboard?

By Katie Pyzyk , Maria Rachal • Jan. 8, 2026

PCI, Smyth announced layoffs in December

The pace of packaging manufacturer closure and layoff announcements slowed at the end of 2025. The shutdowns largely are slated for early 2026.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 6, 2026

2025 packaging trends by the numbers

A $10.4 billion acquisition. Two new EPR laws. A $1 billion kraft linerboard mill investment. These were some of the figures that stood out in the packaging industry this year.

By Maria Rachal , Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 23, 2025

Graphic Packaging defends CEO change despite shareholder pressure

Eminence Capital called newly named CEO Robbert Rietbroek’s previous leadership an “unmitigated disaster.” GPI has since released a securities filing detailing the reasons for hiring Rietbroek and firing CEO Mike Doss.

By Katie Pyzyk • Updated Dec. 22, 2025

10 packaging expansion announcements to close out 2025

The grand opening for Pratt Industries’ new box plant in Georgia drew a visit from the USDA secretary. Plus, American Packaging Corp., Plastipak Packaging, PolyFlex and others announced investments.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 17, 2025

Job market may be ‘turning frigid,’ economist says

Employers added jobs in November, but only in certain sectors, according to Tuesday’s jobs report. Unemployment rose to 4.6%.

By Kate Tornone • Dec. 16, 2025

Ball to acquire majority stake in Benepack

A German regulatory authority approved the deal Wednesday that would transfer two European production facilities into Ball’s ownership. 

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 11, 2025

Sealed Air hires former Sonoco exec to lead food business

Russell Grissett, an industry leader, is the latest addition to the company in a year of change for Sealed Air, which could be taken private next year.

By Maria Rachal • Dec. 10, 2025

Graphic Packaging International names new CEO

CEO Mike Doss will depart at the end of December. Separately, GPI announced a $60 million cost-cutting plan that will result in employee layoffs in 2026.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 8, 2025

Sappi, UPM propose $1.65B graphic paper joint venture

The proposed JV will focus on the European market, but also includes a UPM Minnesota mill. The deal is expected to have broader implications for the North American market upon completion.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 8, 2025

ProAmpac to acquire TC Transcontinental Packaging for $1.5B

The deal continues an M&A streak for ProAmpac as it plans to grow even bigger in flexible packaging.

By Maria Rachal • Dec. 8, 2025

TriMas names new CFO as company hones packaging focus

Paul Swart is rejoining the Michigan-based company as it works to complete a $1.45 billion sale of its aerospace business.

By Maria Rachal • Dec. 5, 2025