5 packaging industry trends to watch in 2026

Megamergers proliferated during the last two years, from the likes of International Paper, Amcor, Novolex, Sonoco and others. This consolidation has shrunk the number of large players in the market, resulting in fewer opportunities for megadeals in 2026, analysts say, and shifting focus to smaller players.Still, factors such as excess capacity in certain packaging segments and a still-dampened demand outlook mean only companies with the necessary "balance sheet capacity" are expected to pursue acquisitions ...