Introduction

1. Expanding Market Outlook:
1.1 As of 2024, the corrugated packaging industry in Europe is valued at approximately USD 84.9 million, showcasing its critical role in the region’s manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics sectors. With growing emphasis on sustainable and recyclable packaging materials, the market continues to evolve in response to stringent environmental regulations and shifting consumer preferences.

2. Steady Growth Forecast:
2.1 The European corrugated packaging market is projected to surpass USD 129.4 million by 2032, registering a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2032. This growth trajectory is driven by the rising adoption of eco-friendly packaging solutions, advancements in lightweight corrugated board technology, and increasing demand from food, beverage, and online retail industries.

3. Sustainability and Innovation at the Core:
3.1 The market’s expansion reflects Europe’s transition toward circular economy principles, encouraging manufacturers to invest in biodegradable materials, recyclable fibers, and digital printing technologies. Innovations in design and automation are further enabling packaging companies to meet high performance standards while minimizing environmental impact, strengthening Europe’s position as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.

GE–McKinsey Matrix – Europe Corrugated Packaging Market

1.1 High Industry Attractiveness | Strong Competitive Position:
1.1.1 Leading packaging manufacturers such as Smurfit Kappa Group, DS Smith Plc, and Mondi Group occupy this quadrant, leveraging advanced automation, circular design practices, and strong regional distribution networks.
1.1.2 Consistent investment in sustainable raw materials and innovative printing solutions strengthens their brand value and profitability in mature European markets.

1.2 High Industry Attractiveness | Moderate Competitive Position:
1.2.1 Mid-tier players and regional converters are expanding through strategic collaborations and product diversification to capture the growing demand from e-commerce and FMCG sectors.
1.2.2 Focus areas include digital transformation, cost efficiency, and partnerships with logistics providers to enhance operational capabilities.

1.3 Moderate Industry Attractiveness | Strong Competitive Position:
1.3.1 Companies with well-established supply chains and customer loyalty, but limited innovation bandwidth, fall under this segment.
1.3.2 Strategic investments in lightweight corrugated materials and energy-efficient manufacturing can help sustain their market position amid rising environmental standards.

1.4 Moderate Industry Attractiveness | Low Competitive Position:
1.4.1 Small-scale manufacturers and local converters face intense pricing pressure and limited access to advanced technologies.
1.4.2 To remain viable, these players are exploring niche packaging applications and leveraging regional sustainability initiatives for funding and support.

1.5 Low Industry Attractiveness | Weak Competitive Position:
1.5.1 Businesses with outdated production infrastructure or limited compliance with EU packaging regulations struggle to maintain profitability.
1.5.2 Market exit, consolidation, or mergers are likely outcomes as the industry continues to prioritize efficiency, recyclability, and digital integration.

1.6 Strategic Insight:
1.6.1 The overall GE–McKinsey analysis highlights a progressive and sustainability-driven landscape, where long-term success depends on innovation, technological adaptation, and alignment with Europe’s green transition policies.

Segment and Key Players

1. By Product Type
1.1 Single Wall Corrugated Boxes
1.2 Double Wall Corrugated Boxes
1.3 Triple Wall Corrugated Boxes
1.4 Slotted Boxes
1.5 Die-Cut Boxes

2. By Flute Type
2.1 A-Flute
2.2 B-Flute
2.3 C-Flute
2.4 E-Flute
2.5 F-Flute
2.6 Mixed/Custom Flutes

3. By Application
3.1 Food & Beverage Packaging
3.2 E-Commerce & Retail Packaging
3.3 Consumer Goods Packaging
3.4 Industrial & Electronics Packaging
3.5 Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
3.6 Logistics & Transportation

4. By Material Type
4.1 Recycled Paper
4.2 Virgin Kraft Paper
4.3 Semi-Chemical Fluting
4.4 Testliner and Fluting Medium

5. By End User
5.1 Food & Beverage Industry
5.2 Personal Care & Household Products
5.3 Automotive & Industrial Goods
5.4 Pharmaceuticals
5.5 Textile & Apparel Industry

6. By Country

6.1 Western Europe
6.1.1 Germany
 6.1.1.1 Key Players: Smurfit Kappa Group, DS Smith Plc, Mondi Group
6.1.2 France
 6.1.2.1 Key Players: International Paper, Smurfit Kappa Group, VPK Packaging Group
6.1.3 United Kingdom
 6.1.3.1 Key Players: DS Smith Plc, Mondi Group, WestRock Company

6.2 Southern Europe
6.2.1 Italy
 6.2.1.1 Key Players: Smurfit Kappa Group, Rondo Ganahl AG, DS Smith Plc
6.2.2 Spain
 6.2.2.1 Key Players: Europac Group, Smurfit Kappa Group, International Paper

6.3 Northern Europe
6.3.1 Netherlands
 6.3.1.1 Key Players: Smurfit Kappa Group, DS Smith Plc, Mondi Group
6.3.2 Belgium
 6.3.2.1 Key Players: VPK Packaging Group, DS Smith Plc, Smurfit Kappa Group

6.4 Eastern Europe
6.4.1 Poland
 6.4.1.1 Key Players: Mondi Group, DS Smith Plc, International Paper
6.4.2 Czech Republic
 6.4.2.1 Key Players: THIMM Group, Model Group, Smurfit Kappa Group
6.4.3 Hungary
 6.4.3.1 Key Players: Mondi Group, DS Smith Plc, Smurfit Kappa Group

7. Key Players (Overall Europe)
7.1 Smurfit Kappa Group
7.2 DS Smith Plc
7.3 Mondi Group
7.4 International Paper
7.5 WestRock Company
7.6 VPK Packaging Group
7.7 Rondo Ganahl AG
7.8 Model Group
7.9 THIMM Group
7.10 Europac Group