Corrugated packaging and displays is a $43 billion a year industry that is vital to U.S. distribution systems. Corrugated is a sustainable, cost-effective, lightweight, functional and versatile packaging choice that is the most frequently used shipping material in the world. Over 90% of all products in North America are delivered or displayed in corrugated packaging at some point in their life cycle.
The industry also employs over 100,000 people at over 1,100 corrugated manufacturing and design facilities across the U.S. Few industries match the exciting challenges, diverse career paths and tremendous advancement potential that corrugated packaging offers. Whether you’re interested in packaging design and production, graphic design, marketing and sales, customer relations, or project management, corrugated packaging has an opportunity for you. Explore the information below to see what we stand for and why choosing a job in our industry really means choosing a rewarding, lifelong career.
Innovation is at our core.
Corrugated packaging and displays is a $43 billion a year industry that is vital to U.S. distribution systems. From 2019-2025, the paper industry has completed or announced $7 billion in manufacturing investments that will support technological advancements and innovative design, manufacturing, and production solutions. Industry leaders continue to leverage digital tools such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality technologies to lead to greater efficiency and creativity.
We prioritize sustainability.
The corrugated packaging industry continues to prioritize sustainability through science-based goals and innovation. As society faces increasingly urgent environmental challenges, the corrugated industry remains committed to making positive change for our world. Corrugated packaging is a recyclable, renewable resource.
We provide many growth opportunities.
There are over 1,100 corrugated manufacturing facilities with approximately 100,000 employees in nearly 1,000 cities and towns throughout the U.S. Diverse and challenging career opportunities are available for students with packaging, graphic design, business, engineering, environmental science, supply chain management, technical or related degrees. There are also opportunities for students right out of high school that don’t think college is the right fit.
Diversity, equity & inclusion matters to us.
Our industry recognizes the value of attracting and retaining new, qualified, and diverse employees. Our manufacturing operations are integral with the communities where we operate. We are committed to positively impacting diversity, equity, and inclusion while also advancing the essential role the industry has in the local, regional and national economies. Read more about DE&I principles from the American Forest & Paper Association.
We value ESG efforts.
Many companies in the corrugated packaging industry have created sustainable business principles to guide their approach to ESG efforts. Our industry uses a renewable resource to create our products, has been working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and creates a product made from recycled material that is then encouraged to be recycled again and again. Also, companies in our industry are heavily involved in philanthropic efforts and community engagement. Our industry has valued our employees and environmental impact from the beginning.