Core Insights - Graphic Packaging International (GPI) reported a net sales of $2.19 billion for Q3 2025, a decrease of 1.2% year over year, with net income falling to $142 million from $165 million in Q3 2024 [1] Sales Performance - Packaging sales volumes declined by 2% year over year, attributed to sluggish consumer spending and unpredictable customer order flows [1] - Certain customer promotions were noted but deemed insufficient to drive overall volume increases [1] Operational Developments - GPI commenced operations at its recycled paperboard mill in Waco, Texas, ahead of schedule, producing its first commercially saleable rolls in October, with full production expected in 12 to 18 months [1] - The Waco facility is strategically located near four major urban centers, enhancing its ability to source recovered fiber feedstock [1] Plant Closures - The East Angus, Quebec recycled paperboard plant will cease production on December 23, 2025, following the operational launch of Waco [1] - The closure of East Angus, along with the earlier closure of the Middletown, Ohio facility, contributes to a capacity loss in the industry, with Waco adding only 75,000 tons more than the industry had at the start of 2025 [1] Market Dynamics - GPI anticipates that its recycled paperboard will replace more expensive bleached paperboard in various markets [1] - A significant imbalance in the solid bleached sulfate (SBS) market has led competitors to lower SBS pricing, which now matches recycled packaging pricing, impacting sales and profitability [1] Financial Outlook - GPI's full-year guidance for net sales remains unchanged at $8.4 billion to $8.6 billion, while the guidance for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) has been lowered to between $1.4 billion and $1.45 billion [1] - The company acknowledges challenges in predicting demand but expresses confidence in improving margins moving forward [1]