PPC Releases Annual Paperboard Trends Report

Published: October 28, 2010

SPRINGFIELD, MA | The Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) recently published its annual Trends Report for 2010, the definitive analysis of what lies ahead for the paperboard packaging industry and reported as an invaluable tool for translating market challenges into opportunities. The report reflects the partnership of PPC and RISI, the leading provider of paperboard packaging industry market forecasts and analysis.

This year’s report was divided into two sections. The first 82-p section, titled Trends 2010: RISI Analysis and Market Data Report, covers business conditions and the economic outlook for the folding carton industry. The second 74-p section, titled Trends 2010: End Use and Market Analysis, identifies growth markets and analyzes forecasts and trends for 17 key market segments of the paperboard packaging industry, such as beverages, cereals, dairy, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Overall, the reports suggest that the paperboard packaging industry will continue to suffer from limited consumer spending as the recession continues through 2011, but should begin to pick up momentum in 2012-14. However, there are some end-use markets with growth potential; pharmaceutical sales are on the rise due to an aging and medication-reliant Baby Boomer demographic and frozen and take-out foods are also selling well as consumers eat at home more often to save money during trying economic times.

Notably, packaging trends are mirroring the healthy, organic aspects of the products contained within the packaging. Portion-controlling, biodegradable, and recycled packaging have become increasingly popular. Further, the aging Baby Boomer demographic has had a strong influence on packaging design as they seek packages that open and close easily, display legible fonts, and feature recognizable branding.

While these reports are available only to PPC members, a report summary is available to the public. To request a copy, contact Cindy Healy, PPC director of Industry Information and Research, at 413-686-9184, or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

To access the full report and others like it, you must be a member of PPC. For information on joining, email Ben Markens, president, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 413-686-9181.