Paperboard Trends: Folding Carton Demand for 2025-2026

November 5, 2025 — As sustainability continues to take center stage in the packaging industry, the demand for paperboard, especially folding cartons, is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to recent industry reports, the paperboard packaging market is expected to see an increase in both demand and innovation, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials and production methods.

Growing Demand for Folding Cartons

Folding cartons, widely used for packaging in sectors such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, are seeing a surge in demand. The growing consumer preference for sustainable packaging is driving brands to shift from plastic to paperboard solutions, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Paperboard is increasingly seen as a reliable alternative to plastic due to its recyclability, biodegradability, and lower environmental impact.

“As more companies are focusing on sustainability, paperboard packaging offers a versatile, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution,” said Sarah Johnson, Senior Analyst at Packaging Dive. “The shift toward paperboard for folding cartons is not just driven by consumer preference, but also by growing regulatory pressure and the need to comply with sustainability targets.”

Sustainability Driving Innovation

In response to the increasing demand for sustainable solutions, packaging manufacturers are innovating with paperboard materials that incorporate recycled content and are designed for easier recyclability. Advances in printing and coating technologies are also enabling brands to use fewer resources while maintaining high-quality, eye-catching designs on folding cartons.

“The future of paperboard packaging lies in the ability to reduce material usage while maintaining structural integrity and visual appeal,” said Johnson. “By incorporating recycled paperboard and sustainable production practices, brands can meet consumer expectations without sacrificing performance.”

Impact of Regulations on Paperboard Demand

As governments around the world tighten regulations on packaging waste and plastic use, companies are increasingly turning to paperboard solutions to meet new standards. In markets such as the European Union and the United States, regulations are pushing companies to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and adopt more sustainable packaging alternatives.

“Regulatory pressure is certainly influencing packaging decisions. Brands are looking for alternatives that not only meet regulatory requirements but also align with consumer demand for sustainability,” Johnson added. “Paperboard, particularly folding cartons, offers a flexible, cost-effective, and sustainable solution that meets these needs.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Paperboard Packaging

The growth of paperboard packaging is expected to continue as companies focus on meeting both environmental and consumer demands. With increasing innovation in material science and production technologies, the paperboard packaging market is set to play a pivotal role in the future of sustainable packaging.

“As brands continue to explore new ways to reduce their environmental footprint, paperboard packaging will remain a key player in the evolution of the packaging industry,” concluded Johnson.