In early February, Germany's cardboard manufacturers and folding box producers reported slightly stabilising order volumes, with fewer production halts necessary.
Cardboard machines are experiencing better utilization compared to last year, with reports of well-filled order books becoming more common.
However, industry insiders speaking to EUWID emphasized that the situation hasn't improved to the extent that further production stops can be avoided entirely, though they are expected to be significantly less frequent than in 2023.
Most producers under continued pressure
This trend appears specific to recycled cardboard types, while the market for virgin fibre cardboard remains variable, with most producers under continued pressure.
One producer's unexpected announcement of price increases for GD and grey cardboard surprised many EUWID interviewees. Processors viewed the move as an attempt to counter further demands, seeing little to no justification for such measures.
Source: EUwid