The global old corrugated container (OCC) market size is estimated to be valued at USD 41.4 billion in 2023. Old corrugated container sales are anticipated to reach USD 65.7 billion by 2033. The market will likely expand at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period 2023 to 2033.
Recycled paper and old corrugated containers (OCC) in particular, have always been a volatile commodity. Recent years have showcased an increasing demand due to a rise in recycled containerboard production. It has been followed by a sudden decrease in export opportunities and disruptions on the supply side. As a result, pricing has been subject to significant fluctuations.
Paper manufacturers in China have been actively seeking remedies to tackle the shortage of recycled fiber. It was brought on by a significant drop in the country’s imports of recovered paper (RCP).
As a key source of recycled fiber, recycled pulp, which is primarily produced from old corrugated containers (OCC), has become a crucial alternative for paper producers in China. In 2017, imports of recycled pulp in the country were virtually nonexistent.
However, by 2019, they had reached around 1 billion tons, and the trend continued to increase substantially next year onward.
In the United States, the average corrugated box contains 50% recycled materials and most of old boxes are repurposed for new paper products. This is closely tied to the production of containerboard, with consumption for 2021 already reaching 22.2 billion tons.
Across the pond in Europe, paper and board have maintained their position as the most commonly recycled packaging material. In fact, the recycling rate for this material in Europe stands at an impressive 71.4%, according to the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) in 2021.
Additionally, the United States boasts a 73% recovery rate for all paper-based packaging, with over 88% of corrugated boxes being recycled.
A new estimation predicts that sales in the recycled paperboard industry will rise from 2023 to 2033 and are projected to create a total financial potential of USD 27 billion. The market for used cardboard containers is predicted to expand 1.6 times the current value during the forecast period.
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Old Corrugated Container Market Anticipated Size (2022A) | USD 39.1 billion |
| Old Corrugated Container Market Estimated Size (2023E) | USD 41.4 billion |
| Projected Old Corrugated Container Market Valuation (2033F) | USD 65.7 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
Don't pay for what you don't need
Customize your report by selecting specific countries or regions and save 30%!
The old corrugated container market witnessed a CAGR of 3.1% during the historical period from 2018 to 2022. The global OCC industry attained a value of USD 39.1 billion in 2022 from USD 35.1 billion in 2018.
| Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) | 3.1% |
|---|---|
| Forecast CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
The historic perspective of the worldwide old corrugated container (OCC) market displays a diverse path driven by changing environmental projects, disposable patterns, as well as recyclable consumption. Over the years, increased environmental consciousness has fueled the recycling efforts and made old corrugated containers essential for reused paper and packaging.
The global demand for recycled fibers mainly sourced from old corrugated containers increased significantly with the adoption of the circular economy.
The growing trend of e-commerce on international level, especially in recent years, led to increased demand for old corrugated containers, which resulted in more containers available for recycling. The historic importance of old corrugated containers in the growing sustainable packaging industry makes this a good time to explore future developments.
These would help address evolving environmental concerns due to legislative changes by national authorities as industries are expected to adopt greener processes.
The table below offers a semi-annual update on the growth rate of the global old corrugated container market over two different periods, namely, H1 and H2, spanning from 2022 to 2033. CAGRs of each period exhibit the estimated average annual growth rates.
They vary between 4.7% and 5.1% for the primary portion of each period and from 4.6% to 4.8% for the second. This proves a largely favorable growth tendency in the market for old corrugated cardboards with slight fluctuation across diverse periods.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 4.7% (2022 to 2032) |
| H2 | 5.1% (2022 to 2032) |
| H1 | 4.6% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 4.8% (2023 to 2033) |
Principal Consultant
High Demand for Sustainable Packaging Solutions Drives the Market
Corrugated packaging producers are set to use recycled materials and manufacture new containers out of these. Several packaging companies are adopting rigid boxes, paper boxes, cardboard boxes, and folding cartons for the packaging of multiple products.
The strength and rigidity provided by sustainable packaging solutions is increasing the demand for old corrugated containers. Consumers are changing their preference toward sustainable choices and this is boosting sales of old corrugated container market.
Manufacturing companies and consumers are driven toward paper packaging due to increased plastic pollution and stringent regulations imposed on plastic usage. Corrugated containers play an important role in shipping and transportation of bulk products, especially in logistics and retail industry.
The rigidity and strength provided by used cardboard containers has increased its packaging applications in food & beverage, pharmaceutical, electrical & electronics, and cosmetics & personal care industries.
Rapid Expansion of the E-commerce Sector Pushes the Market
The increasing demand for online shopping or e-commerce is expected to drive the demand for old corrugated containers as consumers are becoming aware of sustainability. Wood pulp is a rich source of old corrugated containers. It is becoming a more valuable commodity in the packaging sector.
The rising preference for eco-friendly alternatives among modern consumers also positively influences the market. Companies operating in the cardboard recycling market are set to offer customization in different shapes or sizes as well as provide printable solutions as per the requirements of buyers.
Discarded paperboard containers are expected to be demanded by the logistics and transportation industry worldwide. This is attributed to their excellent shock absorption quality and high strength to hold heavy products while transporting goods.
The booming e-commerce sector is further expected to create a high potential for the old corrugated container market. This is due to the rising amount of post-consumer material generated by the sector.
Post-consumer corrugated containers generated from the e-commerce sector can be recycled and reused for the same purpose of shipping & packaging. The influence of digital platforms is projected to further accelerate the e-commerce sector.
The rising demand for rigid, protective, and sustainable packaging solutions from consumers is anticipated to push the used cardboard container market growth.
Increasing Adoption of Paper and Paperboard Packaging Creating Opportunities
One of the most important material in the global packaging market is paper. Demand for paper pulp is increasing rapidly, particularly in developing countries of Southeast Asia and South America.
Paper packaging is expected to be the ideal alternative to polystyrene, which can be fully replaced by recyclable paper. Currently, new developments of paper recycling allow for reprocessing of coated paper packaging as well as corrugated cartons. This is anticipated to lower the cost of recycling, and drive the demand for environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
The section below highlights the CAGRs of the leading countries in the old corrugated container market. The three main countries pushing sales of discarded paperboard containers include Japan, Canada, and China.
According to the analysis, Japan is set to lead the market for scrap cardboard recycling by showcasing a CAGR of 5.9% in the forecast period. The country is anticipated to be followed by Canada and China, with CAGRs of 5.3% and 4.8%, respectively.
| Countries | Value (CAGR) |
|---|---|
| United States | 4.0% |
| Canada | 5.3% |
| Germany | 3.0% |
| Italy | 3.2% |
| France | 3.2% |
| United Kingdom | 2.5% |
| China | 4.8% |
| Japan | 5.9% |
Corrugated packaging is the most often recovered packaging material for recycling, according to the Fiber Box Association. For the past ten years, the old corrugated containers (OCC) recovery rate has been around 90%.
About 52 percent of corrugated boxes are made of recycled materials on average. The United States has more than 56% of its forestland owned by private individuals. Homeowners who preserve their lands to safeguard their worth for future generations hold about 39% of the total (American Forest Foundation).
The United States’ old corrugated container market is anticipated to create a total financial potential worth USD 3,877 million and expand at a CAGR of 4.0% in the forecast period.
According to the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, in 2020, China’s online retail sales reached USD 1.52 trillion. It remained the world’s largest online retail market for eight consecutive years. Overall, the growing retail market in China is expected to create considerable growth opportunities for the old corrugated container market in the estimated period.
China’s old corrugated container market is projected to reach USD 3,594 million by the end of 2023, accelerating at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2023 to 2033. Expansion of the retail industry in China is a key factor driving the recovered fiber market.
Canada’s old corrugated container market is expected to witness a CAGR of 5.3% in the assessment period. OCC demand is frequently correlated with recycling programs in Canada.
Paper and cardboard recycling is becoming more and more important as environmental concerns gain attention. Recycling initiatives are being increasingly promoted and participated in by businesses, consumers, and governments.
Get the data you need at a Fraction of the cost
Personalize your report by choosing insights you need
and save 40%!
The tables below showcase the growth rates of leading segments in the old corrugated container market. In terms of grade, the OCC 12 segment will likely witness a CAGR of 5.8% in the estimated period. Based on end-use, the healthcare segment is set to exhibit a CAGR of 6.1% from 2023 to 2033.
| Grade | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| OCC Grade 11 | 4.3% |
| OCC Grade 12 | 5.8% |
| WX-OCC | 3.5% |
| End-use | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | 5.0% |
| Personal Care & Home Care | 4.4% |
| Logistics & Transportation | 4.7% |
| Electrical & Electronics | 3.5% |
| Healthcare | 6.1% |
| Chemical & Fertilizer | 3.8% |
| Others (Agriculture, Automotive) | 3.0% |
In terms of grade, the OCC 11 segment is projected to expand 1.5 times the current old corrugated container market value during the forecast period. It is anticipated to showcase a CAGR of 4.3% from 2023 to 2033.
Old corrugated containers are characterized by premium quality corrugated cardboard composition sourced from several channels. These include manufacturing facilities, e-commerce distribution hubs, and retail centers.
E-commerce growth has also contributed extensively to sustaining the constant levels of OOC 11. This is because most of the packaging that accompanies online deliveries contribute toward increased amounts of OCC 11.
Food & beverage companies are expected to look for recyclable materials such as old corrugated containers due to the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Corrugated cardboard is mainly known for its flexibility and strength that fits well with the needs of food & beverage packaging.
Novel packaging solutions are expected to lead to the safe transportation of products and minimize their environmental impact. The growing consumer consciousness toward eco-friendly packaging is also set to fuel the market.
It is further projected to compel food & beverage manufacturers to prioritize recyclable packaging. The food & beverage segment is projected to exhibit a CAGR of around 5.0% in the forecast period in the old corrugated container market.
Leading players in the old corrugated container (OCC) waste paper market are gaining high shares by developing innovations and advancements. They are also focusing on mergers & acquisitions, collaborations, and joint ventures to expand their presence in the global old corrugated container market.
Developments by leading players in the old corrugated container market are
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Old Corrugated Container Market Value (2023) | USD 41.4 billion |
| Projected Old Corrugated Container Market Value (2033) | USD 65.7 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
| Base Year for Estimation | 2022 |
| Historical Data | 2018 to 2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Quantitative Units | Revenue in Value USD billion and Volume in 000’ tons |
| Old Corrugated Container Market Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis |
| Segments Covered | Grade, Source, End-use, Region |
| Key Companies Profiled in Old Corrugated Container Market Report | Smurfit Kappa Group; Kruger Inc.; International Paper; WestRock Company; DS Smith Plc; Sonoco Products Company; Cleanaway Waste Management Limited; Royal Oak Recycling; RecycleMax; Gabriel Container Co.; Green Recycling Ltd.; Allan Company; Miller Recycling Corporation; Berg Mill Supply Co.; Continental Paper Grading Limited; ALSECO S.r.l |
The old corrugated container market reached USD 41.4 billion in 2023.
The old corrugated container market is set to reach USD 65.7 billion in 2033.
The old corrugated container market will likely show a 4.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2033.
Old corrugated containers are used containers made from un-waxed, unbleached paper.
The old corrugated container market witnessed a 3.1% CAGR from 2018 to 2022.
1. Executive Summary 2. Market Overview 3. Key Market Trends 4. Key Success Factors 5. Global Market Demand Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033 6. Global Market - Pricing Analysis 7. Global Market Demand (in Value or Size in USD billion) Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033 8. Market Background 9. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Grade 9.1. OCC 11 9.2. OCC 12 9.3. WX-OCC 10. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Source 10.1. Household 10.2. Manufacturing Facilities 10.3. Retail 11. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End-use 11.1. Food & Beverage 11.2. Personal Care & Home Care 11.3. Logistics & Transportation 11.4. Electrical & Electronics 11.5. Healthcare 11.6. Chemical & Fertilizer 11.7. Others (Agriculture, Automotive) 12. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region 12.1. North America 12.2. Latin America 12.3. Europe 12.4. East Asia 12.5. South Asia 12.6. Middle East & Africa 12.7. Oceania 13. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 14. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 15. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 16. South Asia & Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 17. Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 18. Middle East & Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 19. Oceania Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033 20. Country wise Market Analysis 2023 & 2033 21. Market Structure Analysis 22. Competition Analysis 22.1. Smurfit Kappa Group 22.2. Kruger Inc 22.3. International Paper 22.4. WestRock Company 22.5. DS Smith Plc 22.6. Sonoco Products Company 22.7. Cleanaway Waste Management Limited 22.8. Royal Oak Recycling 22.9. RecycleMax 22.10. Gabriel Container Co. 22.11. Green Recycling Ltd. 22.12. Allan Company 22.13. Miller Recycling Corporation 22.14. Berg Mill Supply Co. 22.15. Continental Paper Grading Limited 22.16. ALSECO S.r.l 23. Assumptions and Acronyms Used 24. Research Methodology
Explore Packaging Insights
View Reports
Old Corrugated Container Market
