M&A Activity - Megamergers have increased in the packaging industry over the last two years, leading to fewer large players and a shift in focus towards smaller companies for potential deals in 2026 [1] - Analysts predict that only companies with sufficient balance sheet capacity will pursue acquisitions this year due to excess capacity and a dampened demand outlook [2] - M&A activity is expected to be prevalent among companies dealing with distressed substrates like glass, as organic growth is limited [3] - Lower interest rates and pressure from struggling stock prices are anticipated to drive an increase in M&A activity in 2026 [4] - The pace of packaging mergers and acquisitions is expected to hold steady or increase slightly in 2026, with a shift in the type and size of deals [5] Industry Trends - The packaging industry is expected to adapt to changing consumer spending habits and evolving regulatory attitudes, particularly in the food and beverage sectors [6] - North America led in paper and packaging M&A in 2025, but there is still potential for consolidation in Europe, especially in containerboard and flexible packaging [8] - Major packaging companies have divested non-core assets, indicating a trend towards streamlining operations [9] Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) - The implementation of extended producer responsibility for packaging in the U.S. is becoming more significant, with many companies preparing for multiple state programs [10] - The Circular Action Alliance is growing more sophisticated in managing producer responsibilities and aligning reporting deadlines across states [11] - By the end of 2026, more evidence is expected regarding the reinvestment of EPR fees, with initial funding already allocated to recycling facilities [13] Containerboard Sector - The containerboard sector has faced challenges, with production capacity in North America shrinking by approximately 4 million tons, or nearly 10% [18] - Analysts expect further facility closures in 2026, but anticipate a retooling year for containerboard companies rather than a significant pullback [19] - Operating rates are projected to improve, with expectations of reaching the mid-90s, leading to potential price increases later in the year [21] Labor and Automation - The manufacturing sector, including packaging, is experiencing a labor shortage, with nearly 400,000 open manufacturing jobs reported [24] - Recruiting and retaining workers is a significant challenge for manufacturers, with predictions of up to 1.9 million unfilled jobs by 2033 if workforce issues are not addressed [25] - Companies are increasingly turning to automation to fill labor gaps, which also presents opportunities for upskilling workers [28][29]

Company Overview - Amcor plc (AMCR) is a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, serving various markets including consumer goods, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, medical, and personal care [1] - The company is headquartered in Switzerland and operates through two primary segments: Flexibles and Rigid Packaging, offering a broad portfolio that includes films, pouches, cartons, closures, and specialty containers [1] - Amcor has a market capitalization of $19.4 billion [1] Earnings Expectations - Analysts expect Amcor to report a profit of $0.17 per share on a diluted basis for fiscal 2026 second-quarter earnings, which represents a 6.3% increase from $0.16 per share in the same quarter last year [2] - For the current fiscal year, analysts project an EPS of $0.80, up 12.7% from $0.71 in fiscal 2025, and an EPS of $0.89 in fiscal 2027, reflecting an 11.3% year-over-year increase [3] Stock Performance - Amcor's stock has decreased by 9.1% over the past year, underperforming the S&P 500 Index's 16.2% gains and the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund's 6.8% gains during the same period [4] Corporate Actions - On December 11, Amcor shares rose by 1.6% following the announcement of a 1-for-5 reverse stock split, which was approved by shareholders on November 6, 2025 [5] - The reverse stock split is set to take effect after the close of trading on January 14, 2026, with shares beginning to trade on a split-adjusted basis on January 15, 2026 [5] Analyst Ratings - The consensus opinion on AMCR stock is reasonably bullish, with a "Moderate Buy" rating overall; out of 16 analysts, 10 recommend a "Strong Buy," one suggests a "Moderate Buy," and five give a "Hold" [6] - The average analyst price target for AMCR is $10.40, indicating a potential upside of 21.4% from current levels [6]

Core Insights - Sealed Air Corporation celebrates the 85th anniversary of its CRYOVAC® brand food packaging, highlighting its legacy of innovation and customer trust [1][4] - The CRYOVAC® brand has been a pioneer in food packaging technologies since its trademark was filed in 1941, revolutionizing meat packaging and enhancing the availability of fresh proteins [2][6] - The brand's current offerings include a variety of packaging solutions and advanced equipment, emphasizing its commitment to quality and service [3][6] Company Overview - Sealed Air Corporation is a leading global provider of packaging solutions, integrating sustainable materials, automation, and services to preserve food and protect goods [8] - In 2024, the company generated $5.4 billion in sales and employs approximately 16,400 people across 117 countries [8] - The company’s recognized brands include CRYOVAC, LIQUIBOX, SEALED AIR, AUTOBAG, and BUBBLE WRAP, serving diverse markets such as food, medical, and e-commerce [8] Milestones and Future Directions - The CRYOVAC® brand has a history of collaboration with customers, focusing on building lasting relationships and driving innovation in food packaging [4][7] - The 85th anniversary celebrations will commence at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, Georgia, from January 27-29, 2026 [4]

Group 1 - Ball Corporation will announce its fourth quarter 2025 earnings on February 3, 2026, before trading begins on the New York Stock Exchange [1] - A quarterly conference call will be held at 7 a.m. Mountain Time (9 a.m. Eastern Time) on the same day to discuss the company's results and performance [1] - North American callers can participate in the live Q&A session by calling 877-497-9071, while international callers should use +1 201-689-8727 [1] Group 2 - Ball Corporation provides innovative and sustainable aluminum packaging solutions for beverage, personal care, and household products [2] - The company employs 16,000 people globally and reported net sales of $11.80 billion for 2024, excluding the divested aerospace business [2] - Additional information can be found on Ball's website or through their social media channels [2]

Company Overview - SupplyOne Inc. has acquired Wertheimer Box, an 86-year-old corrugated packaging provider, to strengthen its presence in the Midwest and expand custom packaging capabilities [1] - Wertheimer Box specializes in custom shipping boxes, branded packaging, e-commerce mailers, and point-of-purchase displays, operating a 303,000-square-foot plant with around 50 employees [1] - SupplyOne operates more than 50 locations across the U.S. and Canada, providing custom corrugated, foam, wood, and plastic packaging solutions [2] Acquisition Details - The acquisition of Wertheimer Box is SupplyOne's 46th since its founding in 1998, although the terms of the transaction were not disclosed [3] - Doug Wertheimer, President of Wertheimer Box, stated that joining SupplyOne will provide access to broader logistics and national resources while maintaining the company's local culture and customer focus [4] Industry Outlook - The packaging industry has faced significant layoffs and facility closures over the past year due to economic challenges, consolidation, and realignments, with major companies announcing layoffs and restructuring [5] - Despite these challenges, the outlook for corrugated and broader packaging markets is gradually improving, particularly in the Midwest, as indicated by recent earnings data [6] - Segments tied closely to e-commerce and automation have shown greater resilience, with companies like Sealed Air reporting earnings growth and flexible packaging producers like Amcor seeing stable demand from food, beverage, and healthcare sectors [7]

Core Viewpoint - Ball Corporation is a leading global supplier of aluminum packaging products with a market cap of $14.3 billion, serving various industries including beverage, personal care, and household products [1] Financial Performance - The company is expected to release its fiscal Q4 2025 results soon, with analysts projecting an adjusted EPS of $0.90, reflecting a 7.1% increase from $0.84 in the same quarter last year [2] - For fiscal 2025, analysts forecast an adjusted EPS of $3.57, which is a 12.6% increase from $3.17 in fiscal 2024, and an expected rise to $4.03 in fiscal 2026, marking a 12.9% year-over-year growth [3] Stock Performance - Over the past 52 weeks, Ball Corporation's shares have declined slightly, underperforming the S&P 500 Index's 16.2% gain and the State Street Materials Select Sector SPDR ETF's nearly 12% return [4] - On November 4, shares rose by 1.5% after the company reported Q3 2025 revenue of $3.38 billion, exceeding estimates, and noted a 3.9% increase in global shipments of aluminum packaging [5] Market Outlook - Analysts maintain a cautiously optimistic view on BALL stock, with a "Moderate Buy" rating overall; among 15 analysts, six suggest a "Strong Buy," two a "Moderate Buy," six a "Hold," and one a "Strong Sell" [6] - The average analyst price target for Ball Corporation is $60.08, indicating a potential upside of 11.4% from current levels [6]

Core Insights - A major retailer has implemented Returnity's reusable shipping containers, known as The Last Box, in thousands of high-volume locations to eliminate disposable packaging [1] - The initiative aims to reduce packaging waste and enhance operational resilience compared to traditional packaging methods [2] Group 1: Implementation and Usage - The Last Box is utilized for various store operations including receiving shipments, internal transfers, order preparation, and restocking shelves [2] - Over 100,000 units of The Last Box have been distributed across the retailer's network within months, driven by operational demand and observed benefits [2] Group 2: Benefits and Efficiency - Other retailers trialing the system have reported improved inventory management, reduced product losses or damages, and less labor dedicated to handling excess cardboard [3] - The Last Box has become essential in daily logistics for many stores, enhancing efficiency in backroom operations [3] Group 3: Operational Challenges - Retail backrooms have evolved into fulfillment centers, necessitating better organization and tools to manage increased product flow within limited space [4] - Some stores have had to stage orders in hallways or repurpose small offices to maintain efficiency, highlighting the systemic challenges in retail logistics [5]

Core Viewpoint - Graphic Packaging Holding Company will announce its fourth quarter and full year 2025 financial results on February 3, 2026, before the market opens, followed by a conference call to discuss the results at 10:00 a.m. ET [1] Financial Results Announcement - The financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025 will be released on February 3, 2026 [1] - A conference call will be held at 10:00 a.m. ET on the same day to discuss the results [1] - The conference call will be accessible via webcast and telephone, with specific dial-in numbers provided [2] Future Financial Results - Graphic Packaging has tentatively scheduled the release of its first quarter 2026 financial results for May 5, 2026 [3] Company Overview - Graphic Packaging is a leader in sustainable consumer packaging, focusing on designs made primarily from renewable or recycled materials [4] - The company operates a global network of design and manufacturing facilities, serving well-known brands across various sectors including food, beverage, and household products [4]

Company Overview - Amcor develops and produces a wide range of packaging products, including flexible packaging, rigid packaging containers, specialty cartons, and closures, operating across more than 200 sites in 40 countries [1] - BHP Group, founded in 1885, is a diversified natural resources company focused on mineral exploration and production, with key areas in copper and related minerals, iron ore, and coal [3] Financial Performance - The share price of Amcor (ASX:AMC) has decreased by approximately 17.6% since the start of 2025, while BHP's share price is 37.6% above its 52-week low [1] - Amcor's current dividend yield is around 5.98%, which is higher than its 5-year average of 4.38%, indicating potential growth in dividends [6] - BHP offers a historical dividend yield of approximately 4.78%, compared to its 5-year average of 6.86%, suggesting a decline in dividend yield relative to historical performance [7] Investment Characteristics - Amcor is focused on innovation in sustainable packaging to meet changing consumer and regulatory demands [2] - BHP is regarded as a stable, dividend-paying investment and is commonly included in ASX share portfolios, indicating its attractiveness to investors [4]

Group 1 - Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE:GPK) is considered one of the top cheap stocks under $20, with a Hold rating reaffirmed by Truist Financial and a price target set at $20 [1] - UBS analyst also reaffirmed a Hold rating on GPK, indicating a consensus view on the stock's current valuation [1] - The company announced plans to save approximately $60 million in staffing and other cost reductions by 2026, with expected one-time costs related to these initiatives around $20 million [2] Group 2 - GPK is taking additional actions to reduce inventory in fiscal Q4, including expediting inventory plans previously scheduled for 2026 [3] - The startup of the Waco, Texas, recycled paperboard manufacturing facility is ahead of schedule, contributing to the company's operational efficiency [3] - GPK provides paper-based packaging solutions across various sectors, including food, beverage, and consumer products, with operations divided into multiple business segments [4]