Packaging firms increase recycled paperboard prices

Several large packaging firms have announced price increases for uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) for the upcoming month.

Sonoco, Hartsville, South Carolina, implemented a $50 per ton price increase for all grades of URB in the U.S. and Canada, effective with shipments beginning Nov. 16. According to a news release from Sonoco on the price increase, longer backlogs at its mills along with continuing inflation of input costs, such as freight and papermaking chemicals, are the key drivers for the price increase.

Additionally, Delaware, Ohio-based Greif Inc. has announced that it is implementing a $50 per ton price increase for all grades of URB as well, effective with shipments on or after Nov. 9. According to a news release from Greif on this price increase, cost pressures in transportation, insurance, labor and chemicals as well as supply-and-demand balance across Greif’s paperboard network are the main drivers for the price increase.