Packaging companies report growth amid shifting demand and rising costs

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) and Crown Holdings have both reported strong third-quarter results, driven by volume increases and strategic pricing, despite facing rising input costs.

PCA reported net sales of $2.6 billion, a 12.5% year-over-year increase, with net income rising to $262.3 million. While shipments grew by 11%, the company noted challenged demand in certain sectors, such as agriculture and beef. PCA is currently prioritizing containerboard price increases to offset rising costs in freight, recycled fiber, power, and chemicals. The company also noted that assets acquired from Greif in September 2025 contributed significantly to its performance.

Crown Holdings raised its full-year 2026 earnings outlook following a 6% increase in global beverage can shipments during the third quarter. Net sales rose to $3.711 billion, up from $3.202 billion the previous year. The company successfully passed $405 million in additional material costs to customers. Growth was observed across multiple regions, with Asia seeing double-digit growth, North America increasing by 6%, and Europe by 4%.