How can we continue to move forward, invest, and innovate in an uncertain economic, geopolitical, and regulatory environment? The French Federation of Cardboard and Stationery Products (Cap) made this question the focus of its 12th Cardboard Industry Conference, held on September 23, 2026, in Paris, before an audience of about 100 industry professionals.
Emily Mayer, director of research at Circana, a U.S.-based market research and technology firm, outlined several shifts in consumer behavior that are likely to create new demand for cardboard packaging. The growth in delivery and snacking, the digitization of shopping, and trends related to an aging population and household size were among the trends presented.
Jeremy Robiolle, director of development, and Olivier Lemesle, head of data at the French research institute Xerfi, presented the industry?s economic data. These indicators echo the business climate survey conducted in May by CAP in collaboration with the CPME?now known as Les Entrepreneurs?which highlighted the concerns of cardboard industry executives regarding the second half of the year.
Philippe Martinez, director of the Functional Products Division at the Paper Technical Center, presented the potential of chromatogeny. This technology modifies the surface behavior of cardboard when exposed to water without the need for lamination or the addition of extra layers. In particular, it can be tested for packaging whose properties deteriorate upon contact with water.
French and European regulatory requirements were also a focus of the discussions. Kareen Desbouïs, General Delegate for Corrugated Board in France at the French Committee for Paper and Cardboard Packaging (Cofepac), discussed compliance with the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
Bruno Garnier, president of Moultipass Agency, a French consulting firm specializing in CSR strategy and environmental transition, discussed geopolitical and regulatory developments, as well as issues related to reuse and their implications for the cardboard industry.
"In a rapidly changing environment, we need to take a step back, exchange perspectives, and share the realities of our businesses." , said Jean-Marc Lebhar, president of Cap. The conference thus brought together the economic concerns expressed by the industry with trends in consumer behavior, technical possibilities, and new regulatory constraints.
