With e‑commerce demand rising for everything from groceries to everyday household essentials—and with consumer preference shifting away from single‑use plastics amid nationwide bans—many companies are transitioning from plastic to paper‑based products, particularly for bags and packaging.

This momentum is only expected to accelerate. With more than ten U.S. states now enforcing statewide plastic bag bans, and hundreds of local ordinances nationwide coming, plastics usage will continue to decrease in these sectors.

As plastics phase out, demand for paper bags and other paper‑based packaging continues to rise. Businesses are rapidly pivoting to molded pulp products and fiber‑based packaging, driving significant growth in paper production.

Surge in Demand for Paper Products

The shift away from plastics has created major growth opportunities for the pulp and paper sector. Demand for paper bags and corrugated cardboard has, in some cases, exceeded mill capacity—fueled by both plastic‑replacement initiatives and the continued expansion of e‑commerce.

The global paper packaging market is projected to surpass USD 500 billion by 2033, prompting manufacturers to invest heavily in new machines, convert older mills, and upgrade technology to meet rising demand.

Automation and Modernization

To keep pace, major packaging companies are integrating advanced automated systems, including high‑efficiency pulp molding lines, to boost throughput and maintain the quality standards required by food service, retail, and consumer goods markets.

How M.R. Snyder Supports This Transition

M.R. Snyder has the expertise to help manufacturers navigate this industry shift and make the significant infrastructure investments required to scale paper production. Our engineering team designs and integrates automated systems for both retrofitting older paper manufacturing equipment and building new production lines.

We specialize in automating critical processes—including machine drive & control systems, slitters, winders, pumps, and fans—to increase efficiency, reliability, and output.

Contact us to learn more about how we can support your transition to paper‑based production and help you meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging.