Europe Containerboard Market

Europe Containerboard Market Overview

The Europe Containerboard Market size was valued at USD 29.87 billion in 2023 and is predicted to reach USD 35.26 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 2.09% from 2024 to 2030. In terms of volume the market size was 27391 kilotons in 2023 and is projected to reach 37667 kilotons in 2030, with a CAGR of 3.93% from 2024 to 2030.

The containerboard market refers to the segment of the paper industry that produces a type of paperboard specifically designed for the manufacturing of corrugated boxes and packaging materials This encompasses the production, distribution, and consumption of containerboard products by various industries for packaging purposes.

These fiberboards are durable and strong paperboard which is primarily recycled from old corrugated containers (OCC) and mixed paper, as well as virgin fibres obtained from wood pulp. These boards further offer numerous advantages, including their strength and durability, which ensures reliable protection for products during transit and storage, significantly reducing the risk of damage. Moreover, containerboards offer a lightweight feature which minimizes shipping costs and environmental impact. Its versatility allows for customization to meet diverse packaging needs, from small boxes to large containers.

E-commerce and Supply Chain Growth Fuel Containerboard Demand in Europe

The rapid expansion of e-commerce and retail logistics remains the most significant growth driver for containerboard in Europe. Online shopping continues to increase, leading to greater demand for lightweight, durable, and customizable corrugated packaging. In addition, supply chain optimization across food, beverage, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries requires high-performance containerboard solutions that ensure protection, branding, and sustainability.

Investments in high-speed corrugators and lighter-weight grades are enabling manufacturers to serve this demand while lowering transportation costs. This trend is reinforced by retailers’ push for shelf-ready packaging and just-in-time deliveries, making containerboard a central element of Europe’s packaging ecosystem.

Digitalization and Automation Improve Efficiency and Competitiveness

Digital transformation is reshaping Europe’s containerboard industry. Smart manufacturing systems, AI-based quality control, and predictive maintenance help mills optimize output and minimize downtime. Automated inventory tracking and digital procurement platforms streamline supply chains and improve transparency for buyers.

These technologies not only reduce production costs but also allow manufacturers to respond faster to customized orders from SMEs and regional markets. By enhancing flexibility and cost efficiency, digital innovation strengthens the competitiveness of European producers in both domestic and export markets.

Energy and Raw Material Price Volatility Pressure Margins

Energy-intensive production and dependence on recovered paper expose European containerboard producers to cost volatility. Electricity, natural gas, and raw material price fluctuations—especially during energy crises—can significantly impact profitability. While some producers invest in biomass boilers, CHP plants, or renewable energy sources, many remain vulnerable to external shocks.

This cost pressure is compounded by increasingly strict EU environmental regulations (e.g., ETS carbon pricing), forcing mills to balance competitiveness with compliance. Price volatility and rising operational expenses remain key restraints on market growth and profitability.

Sustainability and Circular Economy Policies Accelerate Innovation

Europe’s strict packaging waste directives, national recycling mandates, and corporate ESG goals are driving demand for sustainable containerboard. Producers are innovating with fully recyclable, lightweight, and fiber-efficient grades that reduce environmental impact while maintaining strength. Developments include biodegradable coatings, water-based inks, and alternative fiber sources (e.g., straw, hemp).

In addition, the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan encourages investment in closed-loop recycling and energy-efficient mills. Containerboard manufacturers that align with these initiatives can capture new growth opportunities, enhance brand reputation, and secure long-term contracts with multinational retailers and FMCG companies.

Germany Dominates the Europe Containerboard Market Share

Germany's expanding export sector is driving demand for durable packaging solutions, particularly containerboard, essential for secure transportation across industries such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and consumer goods.

According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, Germany's total exports reached USD 1.6 trillion in 2022, marking a significant increase from USD 1.39 trillion in 2017. This growth directly correlates with increased demand for containerboard packaging as businesses prioritize product protection and safe global delivery.

Furthermore, Germany's thriving e-commerce industry is a major catalyst for robust packaging materials, crucial for ensuring secure product delivery. According to the International Trade Administration, Germany ranks among Europe's largest e-commerce markets, achieving an impressive 80 percent penetration rate in 2022, the third highest globally. As e-commerce continues to expand, the demand for containerboard packaging is self-assured to grow accordingly, further boosting the containerboard market in the country.

Finland to Witness Substantial Growth in the Europe Containerboard Market with a Projected CAGR of 5.80%

Finland's increasing trade activities are driving demand for reliable packaging solutions that ensure secure and efficient cross-border transportation of goods, bolstering growth in the country's containerboard market.

In 2022, Finland's exports surged to USD 127.83 billion, marking a substantial year-over-year increase from USD 116.76 billion in 2021. This sustained demand for dependable packaging solutions is expected to further boost Finland's containerboard market, reinforcing its position as a pivotal hub for global trade and commerce.

Additionally, the rapid growth of e-commerce in Finland is significantly expanding the containerboard industry. With more consumers opting for online shopping, there is a rising need for containerboards that can effectively protect goods during transit.

According to the European E-Commerce Report, in 2023, 81% of internet users in Finland engaged in online purchases of goods or services, highlighting the crucial role of e-commerce in driving demand for containerboards. As the e-commerce sector continues to evolve, the demand for reliable packaging solutions underscores the pivotal role of containerboard in the market.

Competitive Landscape

Several market players operating in the Europe containerboard industry include Smurfit Kappa (Smurfit WestRock), Mondi Group, DS Smith Plc, Stora Enso Oyj, International Paper (EMEA), Saica Group, Billerud AB, Metsä Board (Metsä Group), Norske Skog ASA, VPK Group NV, Hamburger Containerboard (Prinzhorn Group), Klingele Paper & Packaging Group, LEIPA Group GmbH, Klabin S.A, Holmen AB (Holmen Paper), and others.

Europe Containerboard Market Key Segments

By Material

• Virgin Fibres

• Recycled Fibres

• Mixed Fibres (Virgin+Recycled)

By Type

• Linerboard

  • Kraftliner

  • Testliner

  • White Top Linerboard

  • Recycled Linerboard

• Corrugating Medium (Fluting)        

• Other Types

By Wall Structure / Thickness

• Single Wall                

• Double Wall                

• Triple Wall

By Packaging Grade

• Liner Grade                

• Medium Grade                

• White Top Grade

By End-use Industry / Application

• Food & Beverage                

  • Fruits & Vegetables            

  • Processed & Ready-to-eat Food            

  • Poultry & Meat            

• Consumer Goods & Retail                

• Electronics & Electricals                

• Industrial                

• Pharmaceuticals                

• Textiles & Apparel                

• Cosmetics & Personal Care                

• Others

By Countries

• Germany

• France

• Italy

• Spain

• The UK

• Russia

• Sweden

• Norway

• Denmark

• Netherlands

• Finland

• Rest of Europe

Key Players

• Smurfit Kappa (Smurfit WestRock)

• Mondi Group

• DS Smith Plc

• Stora Enso Oyj

• International Paper (EMEA)

• Saica Group

• Billerud AB

• Metsä Board (Metsä Group)

• Norske Skog ASA

• VPK Group NV

• Hamburger Containerboard (Prinzhorn Group)

• Klingele Paper & Packaging Group

• LEIPA Group GmbH

• Klabin S.A.

• Holmen AB (Holmen Paper)

Report Scope and Segmentation