Top 10 Companies in the Printed Cartons Industry (2025): Market Leaders Powering Global Packaging

In Business Insights
December 24, 2025


The Global Printed Cartons Market was valued at USD 112.5 Billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 145.8 Billion by 2028, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period (2022–2028). This growth is being driven by rising demand for packaged consumer goods, the e-commerce boom, and the accelerating adoption of sustainable and smart packaging solutions across food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors.

As the global packaging industry evolves toward eco-friendly materials and digital printing technologies, the focus shifts to the key manufacturers driving innovation and efficiency. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Printed Cartons Industry—a mix of global giants and regional leaders shaping the future of carton packaging.

Download FREE Sample Report: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🔟 1. Amcor plc

Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland
Key Offering: Folding Cartons, Rigid Paperboard Packaging, Sustainable Packaging Solutions

Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods. Their extensive portfolio includes innovative printed carton solutions designed for shelf appeal, product protection, and sustainability.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Pledge to develop all packaging as recyclable or reusable by 2025

  • Significant investment in high-quality flexographic and lithographic printing technologies

  • Strategic acquisitions to expand global footprint and product portfolio


9️⃣ 2. International Paper Company

Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Key Offering: Corrugated Packaging, Folding Cartons, Paperboard

International Paper is one of the world’s leading producers of fiber-based packaging, pulp, and paper. Their printed carton division serves a vast array of industries, leveraging their massive scale and vertical integration from pulp production to finished goods.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Commitment to sustainable forestry and circular economy principles

  • Advanced printing capabilities for high-graphic packaging

  • Focus on lightweighting and material efficiency

Download FREE Sample Report: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report


8️⃣ 3. WestRock Company

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Key Offering: Consumer Cartons, Corrugated Containers, Packaging Solutions

Formed by the merger of MeadWestvaco and RockTenn, WestRock is a leading provider of paper and packaging solutions. The company excels in creating value-added printed cartons with enhanced graphics and functional features for brand owners.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of Recyclable Packaging with high post-consumer recycled content

  • Integration of automation and data analytics in packaging design

  • Partnerships with major global brands for customized packaging


7️⃣ 4. DS Smith Plc

Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Recycled Packaging, Cartons, Display Packaging

DS Smith is a leading provider of sustainable, fiber-based packaging across Europe and North America. The company specializes in innovative paperboard solutions, including high-quality printed cartons for the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Circular Designed™ packaging principles focusing on reuse and recyclability

  • Rapid prototyping and design services for customers

  • Strong focus on supply chain optimization and recycled fibers


6️⃣ 5. Sonoco Products Company

Headquarters: Hartsville, South Carolina, USA
Key Offering: Paperboard Containers, Composite Cans, Thermoformed Plastics

Sonoco is a global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products, and packaging supply chain services. Their diversified portfolio includes a wide range of printed paperboard cartons for food, packaging, and healthcare markets.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of EnviroCan™ paper-based cans as an alternative to plastic

  • Investments in water-based coatings and barrier technologies

  • Commitment to 100% recyclable, compostable, or reusable packaging by 2025


5️⃣ 6. Graphic Packaging Holding Company

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Key Offering: Cartons, Cartonboard, Flexible Packaging

Graphic Packaging is a leading provider of paper-based packaging solutions for a wide range of products. The company is renowned for its expertise in high-quality printing and value-added carton structures, particularly for the food, beverage, and foodservice industries.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Innovations in microwaveable and ovenable paperboard packaging

  • Partnership with PepsiCo and other major brands for sustainable packaging

  • Leadership in using recycled paperboard and sustainable sourcing

Get Full Report Here: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report


4️⃣ 7. Huhtamäki Oyj

Headquarters: Espoo, Finland
Key Offering: Foodservice Packaging, Consumer Packaging, Molded Fiber Products

Huhtamaki is a key global manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions for food and drink. Their printed carton business focuses on creating safe, convenient, and visually appealing packaging for both fresh and long-life products.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • 2025 ambition: 100% of products to be recyclable, compostable, or reusable

  • Pioneering recyclable paper-based barriers for flexible packaging

  • Global network of manufacturing facilities ensuring local supply


3️⃣ 8. Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG

Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
Key Offering: Folding Boxboard, Liquid Packaging Board, Recycled Cartonboard

Mayr-Melnhof Group (MM) is one of the world’s leading producers of cartonboard and folding cartons. The company operates through two divisions: MM Karton (cartonboard production) and MM Packaging (conversion into printed cartons).

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Focus on high-quality, glossy, and customized printing finishes

  • Strong emphasis on fiber sourcing from sustainably managed forests

  • Leadership in the European market for pharmaceutical and luxury cartons


2️⃣ 9. Smurfit Kappa Group

Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
Key Offering: Corrugated Packaging, Solid Board, Bag-in-Box

Smurfit Kappa is a leading producer of paper-based packaging with operations across Europe and the Americas. While renowned for corrugated solutions, the company also produces high-quality printed cartons and displays, offering a complete packaging portfolio.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Extensive use of renewable energy in production processes

  • Development of innovative Retail Ready Packaging (RRP) solutions

  • Industry-leading design and testing facilities for packaging optimization

Download FREE Sample Report: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report


1️⃣ 10. AR Packaging Group AB

Headquarters: Lund, Sweden
Key Offering: Folding Cartons, Liquid Packaging, Flexible Packaging

AR Packaging is a leading European manufacturer of premium printed packaging, specializing in high-value cartons for the food, confectionery, pharma, and beauty industries. The company is known for its innovation in barrier coatings and advanced printing techniques.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Expertise in high-barrier paperboard for sensitive products

  • Investment in digital printing for short runs and customization

  • Strong focus on fiber-based, mono-material solutions for improved recyclability

Get Full Report Here: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Printed Cartons Is Sustainable and Digital

The printed cartons market is undergoing a significant transformation. While traditional materials still dominate, the industry is rapidly shifting towards eco-friendly substrates, digital printing technologies, and smart packaging integrations that enhance consumer engagement and supply chain efficiency.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Accelerated demand for recyclable and compostable paperboard materials

  • Growth of digital printing enabling mass customization and shorter runs

  • Integration of QR codes and NFC technology for interactive packaging

  • Stringent government regulations promoting sustainable packaging practices

Get Full Report Here: Printed Cartons Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only supplying essential packaging—they’re driving the sustainable innovation that defines the future of the industry.