The United States Paper Tubes and Core industry is valued at USD 809.3 million in 2025. As per FMI's analysis, the industry will grow at a CAGR of 4.7% and reach USD 1.2 billion by 2035.
The demand for paper tubes and cores is heavily influenced by the increasing shift towards sustainable packaging solutions, particularly within the e-commerce, food and beverage, and cosmetics industries. These sectors continue to seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging, with paper tubes offering a recyclable and lightweight option that meets the need for secure and efficient product delivery.
This growth is also driven by the rising adoption of paper-based packaging materials as part of the larger movement to reduce plastic use and improve environmental sustainability.
In 2024, key developments in the United States include a growing emphasis on lightweight yet strong paper tubes, which help reduce resource usage while maintaining the required durability for packaging and shipping. Technological advancements in manufacturing have also improved product quality, making paper tubes a more viable alternative to heavier, more resource-intensive packaging materials.
Additionally, the regulatory environment is evolving, with increased focus on sustainability practices encouraging industries to adopt paper tubes as part of their packaging solutions.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Value (2025E) | USD 809.3 million |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 1.2 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.7% |
The United States paper tubes and core industry is set for steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable, eco-friendly packaging solutions across industries like e-commerce, food, and beverages. The shift towards recyclable and cost-effective materials positions manufacturers focused on innovation and sustainability to benefit. However, businesses that fail to adapt to the growing consumer preference for sustainable packaging may face challenges as regulations and environmental concerns intensify.
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Executives in the United States paper tubes and core industry should prioritize investment in research and development (R&D) to create lightweight, sustainable, and cost-effective packaging solutions. Innovations focused on enhancing recyclability and reducing material usage will be critical as the demand for eco-friendly packaging continues to grow, particularly in sectors like e-commerce and consumer goods.
Companies must also stay ahead of evolving environmental regulations, designing packaging systems that comply with sustainability standards. Additionally, forming strategic partnerships with key players in the e-commerce, retail, and industrial packaging sectors will expand industry reach and ensure long-term success. Focused investments in emerging regions like Asia-Pacific and Europe, where demand for eco-conscious packaging is increasing, will further position companies for growth.
However, several risks need to be managed. The high probability of supply chain disruptions, especially related to the availability of recycled paper, presents a significant challenge to production continuity. Stricter environmental regulations are also likely to impose high-impact risks, compelling companies to invest in technologies that reduce emissions and improve recyclability. Finally, increased competition within the packaging sector could impact profit margins, making innovation and cost-efficiency vital for maintaining industry position.
To mitigate these risks, companies should invest in advanced R&D for sustainable materials, streamline their supply chain processes, and pursue strategic partnerships in high-growth regions. Additionally, staying ahead of regulatory changes will ensure compliance, securing a competitive edge in an increasingly eco-conscious industry.
To stay ahead in the evolving paper tubes and core industry, the board should prioritize accelerating innovation in sustainable packaging solutions, focusing on lightweight, recyclable materials that meet increasing consumer and regulatory demand for eco-friendly alternatives. This strategic shift requires investing in R&D to enhance product performance while reducing environmental impact.
Additionally, forming key partnerships with major e-commerce players and expanding industry reach in high-growth regions such as Asia-Pacific and Europe will provide critical growth opportunities. Strengthening supply chain resilience and proactively addressing emerging regulations will ensure long-term competitive advantage, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable packaging innovation. This roadmap will enable the organization to lead in aindustry increasingly driven by sustainability and consumer preference for eco-conscious solutions.
In a recent survey conducted by Future Market Insights (FMI) in Q4 2024, 500 stakeholders in the global paper tubes and core industry were surveyed, including manufacturers, packaging companies, and regulatory agencies across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East.
The survey revealed that 80% of stakeholders consider sustainability and eco-friendly solutions as critical focus areas, with 72% emphasizing cost optimization and productivity improvements. Regionally, North America leads in adopting digital technologies for operational efficiency, with 65% of respondents focusing on smart, IoT-based systems, while Europe is leading with 78% prioritizing recyclable materials.
Asia-Pacific stakeholders (62%) are more focused on cost-effective, hybrid material solutions, while the Middle East is particularly interested in expanding production capacity to meet increasing demand for packaging solutions.
The survey also identified significant concerns across the regions. Rising raw material costs were a major issue for 83% of stakeholders, with North America and Europe more willing to absorb higher costs for premium, sustainable products. In contrast, Asia-Pacific remains focused on affordability. Supply chain disruptions were particularly noted in North America and Europe, while Asia-Pacific faces cost pressures and logistical challenges in offshore locations.
Looking ahead, 70% of respondents plan to invest in new technologies, with North America emphasizing digital systems, Europe focusing on low-emission packaging, and Asia-Pacific continuing to seek cost-effective hybrid solutions. Regulatory pressures are projected to impact North America and Europe the most, while the Middle East and Asia-Pacific face less stringent enforcement.
| Region | Policies and Regulations |
|---|---|
| Northeast | The Northeast region, particularly states like New York, enforces stringent recycling laws for paper products. Companies in the paper tube and core industry must comply with local sustainability standards set by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which include guidelines for waste red uction and recycling practices. |
| Southwest | In California, Proposition 65 mandates that products containing chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive harm must carry a warning label. Paper tubes and cores must be evaluated for chemical compliance to avoid penalties. The California Department of Toxic Substances Co ntrol oversees this regulation. |
| West | Oregon has implemented regulations on packaging materials, urging the use of recyclable or biodegradable materials in paper tube production. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) enforces these rules, which aim to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainability. |
| Southeast | Florida requires businesses to adhere to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) guidelines on packaging waste management. Companies must follow local mandates for paper recycling practices to comply with state regulations. |
| Midwest | The USA Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces regulations concerning air quality and emissions from production plants. Companies in the paper tube production industry must comply with these regulations, which may require specific certifications to prove adhere nce to environmental standards. |
The material segment of the paper tube industry is projected to grow at a healthy CAGR, with recycled materials leading the charge, particularly in the paperboard category. Recycled paperboard is expected to experience the highest growth, with a CAGR of 6.5% over the assessment period from 2025 to 2035. The growing global emphasis on sustainability and the shift toward eco-friendly packaging solutions contribute significantly to the rising demand for recycled materials.
This trend is bolstered by increasing environmental regulations and consumer preference for sustainable packaging. Additionally, the strong performance of virgin kraft board and paperboard will continue to support industry growth, although the recycled variants are expected to see a higher growth rate.
The diameter segment is anticipated to grow robustly, with the 153 mm to 229 mm diameter range leading the way, experiencing a CAGR of 5.8%. This category’s growth is driven by the expanding demand in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and large-scale packaging applications.
The requirement for heavy-duty packaging solutions in these industries, such as construction materials, steel coils, and large rolls of paper, fuels the demand for larger diameter paper tubes. The 230 mm & above diameter segment is also projected to grow steadily, with a slightly lower CAGR of 5.2%, supported by the ongoing need for robust packaging solutions across heavy-duty applications.
The end-use segment of the paper tube industry will be predominantly influenced by the construction and building industry, which is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 7.2% between 2025 and 2035. The increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in construction materials, including insulation and other building products, is driving this growth.
Furthermore, the paper and textile industries are also poised for steady growth due to the continued need for paper tubes in the packaging of rolls of paper, textiles, and yarns. However, the construction industry's rapid growth, driven by global infrastructure development, will lead to the highest expansion in the assessment period.
The CAGR for the Northeast region is projected to be 5.5% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that the region’s growth will be driven by a well-established industrial base and increasing demand for sustainable packaging. The Northeast is home to a large number of paper tube manufacturers and major players in industries like textiles, construction, and paper. With its strong manufacturing sector, the demand for paper tubes in packaging and industrial applications is poised for steady growth.
Additionally, the region's focus on sustainability and eco-friendly solutions further supports the shift towards recycled materials, particularly in paperboard. The region is likely to see a boost in adoption of recycled variants due to the growing regulatory focus on environmental impacts.
The Southwest region is projected to experience a CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s findings suggest that this area’s growth will be fueled by its expanding construction industry, which is one of the largest end users of paper tubes. The ongoing development of infrastructure projects and residential buildings creates a continuous demand for packaging solutions, especially for construction materials and insulation.
Additionally, industries like textiles and film packaging are also likely to drive industry growth in the region. As companies continue to prioritize eco-friendly packaging, the use of recycled materials, especially in paperboard and kraft board segments, is expected to increase, providing a further push for sustainable packaging solutions in the Southwest.
The FMI analysis shows that the CAGR for the West region will be 5.9% from 2025 to 2035. The region's diverse industries, including film and flexible packaging, textiles, and construction, are likely to sustain demand for paper tubes throughout the assessment period. The growth of the film and flexible packaging segment is particularly noteworthy, driven by the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and lightweight packaging solutions.
Additionally, with states like California leading the way in sustainability efforts, the demand for recycled paperboard and kraft board materials will continue to rise. The West is expected to be an attractive industry for companies prioritizing eco-friendly and cost-effective packaging solutions, reinforcing its position as a key region for industry expansion.
The Southeast region is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that the Southeast's industrial sector, including manufacturing and construction, will drive a substantial increase in demand for paper tubes. The region's growing manufacturing base, particularly in textiles, construction materials, and packaging, will create continued opportunities for paper tube manufacturers.
The construction industry’s need for durable, cost-effective packaging solutions for heavy-duty materials is particularly important. Furthermore, as the region is increasingly adopting sustainable practices, the demand for recycled materials, especially recycled paperboard, is expected to rise, aligning with broader environmental trends and consumer preferences for eco-friendly products.
The FMI’s analysis suggests that the Midwest region will experience a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2035. The region, known for its manufacturing and automotive industries, is poised to see steady demand for paper tubes in industrial and manufacturing sectors. With an emphasis on packaging materials for both the automotive and textile industries, paper tubes continue to serve as critical components in these areas.
Additionally, the construction industry in the Midwest is projected to see growth due to ongoing infrastructure projects and residential developments. The demand for sustainable packaging solutions, including recycled paperboard and kraft board materials, will further contribute to the region’s growth, as environmental awareness and green practices gain traction in manufacturing and packaging.
The USA paper tube industry is relatively fragmented, with numerous regional and national players competing for industry share. Companies in this sector are utilizing various strategies to strengthen their industry position, including aggressive pricing tactics, product innovation, partnerships, and expanding their geographical reach.
Industry leaders are increasingly focused on improving product quality and meeting the sustainability demands of their customers. By adopting new technologies and integrating eco-friendly practices, these companies are positioning themselves as frontrunners in the competitive landscape. Moreover, leveraging economies of scale allows them to reduce costs and offer competitive pricing.
In recent developments, in January 2024, Sonoco Products Company launched a new line of eco-friendly paper tubes, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Later, in March 2024, Cascade Paper Company announced a strategic partnership with a global logistics provider to enhance its distribution capabilities across the United States.
Furthermore, in April 2024, Green Bay Packaging acquired a regional paper tube manufacturer, expanding its product range and solidifying its industry presence. These strategic initiatives reflect the industry's drive towards innovation, sustainability, and regional expansion.
In 2024, Sonoco Products Company (30-35% industry share) will continue to lead the USA paper tube industry, bolstered by its ongoing innovation in eco-friendly packaging solutions. The company has solidified its position as a major player, catering to diverse industries while maintaining a focus on sustainability.
Cascade Paper Company (15-20%) is gaining ground through strategic partnerships, especially in the Southeast and Midwest, expanding its distribution network and catering to increasing demand for high-quality paper tube solutions. Green Bay Packaging (10-15%) will strengthen its industry position following its 2024 acquisition of a regional manufacturer, significantly expanding its production capacity and product offerings to further serve its diverse customer base.
Lindner Group (8-10%) is poised to expand its industry share, particularly in the textile industry, with the introduction of a new recyclable paper tube product line. Meanwhile, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) (5-10%) is focused on expanding production capabilities to meet the growing demand in industrial sectors, with a strategic emphasis on reducing lead times.
Finally, Smurfit Kappa (10-12%) will continue to gain traction in the USAindustry with a new range of durable, eco-friendly paper tubes for the construction industry, catering to evolving industry needs.
The demand for sustainable packaging, growth in the paper and textile industries, and the shift toward eco-friendly products are key drivers fueling the growth of the Paper Tube & Core industry in the United States.
Stricter regulations on packaging waste and sustainability drive industries to adopt paper tubes and cores as a more eco-friendly alternative to plastic and other non-recyclable materials.
Innovations in manufacturing processes, increasing use of recycled materials, and the growing preference for lightweight, customizable, and eco-friendly paper tubes are some of the emerging trends.
The paper, textile, and construction industries are expected to see significant demand for paper tubes and cores, as they seek durable and sustainable packaging options.
Companies in the industry face challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, supply chain disruptions, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability standards.
The United States Paper Tube & Core Industry is segmented into Kraft board (Virgin and Recycled) and Paperboard (Virgin and Recycled).
The industry is divided into 23 mm to 76 mm, 77 mm to 152 mm, 153 mm to 229 mm, and 230 mm & Above.
The industry is segmented into Paper Industry, Textile Industry, Construction and Building Industry, Film and Flexible, Postal and Mailing Services, Fireworks Industry, Industrial and Manufacturing, and Others (Sports & Recreation, Pharmaceutical, etc.).
The industry is studied across Northeast, Southwest, West, Southeast, and Midwest.
Paper Tubes & Core Industry Analysis in United States
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