The corrugated paper packaging industry in the US plays a crucial role in various sectors, providing sustainable and efficient packaging solutions that protect products during transit. Companies range from manufacturers producing corrugated containers to innovative design firms enhancing packaging functionality. This industry is witnessing a surge in demand driven by e-commerce growth and increased environmental consciousness, pushing firms to adopt eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, technology is shaping operations, with smart packaging solutions gaining popularity. The rise of online shopping is reshaping consumer behavior, making the corrugated packaging sector crucial for businesses aiming to connect with consumers effectively.


This list showcases a varied group of 15 investors, spanning private equity firms and venture capitalists primarily located in bustling cities like New York and San Francisco. Many were founded in the 1980s and 2000s, reflecting both legacy and innovation. These investors range in size, with some boasting teams exceeding 10,000 employees, while others operate with a nimble workforce. In the previous year alone, they collectively engaged in a noteworthy number of deals within the packaging sector, demonstrating their active participation and commitment to growth in corrugated paper packaging.


Top 15 Corrugated Paper Packaging Investors in the US


1. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. They focus on supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities, offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. In recent years, Advantage Capital has been involved in several transactions that highlight their investment strategy. Notably, they invested in Cady Bag, which raised $5 million in debt financing in June 2020, a company that operates in the packaging sector. Additionally, they have provided debt financing to DRC Industries and IPAK, both of which may have relevance to the packaging industry. These transactions indicate that Advantage Capital is not only focused on their primary sectors but also engages with companies that could be part of the corrugated paper packaging ecosystem.


2. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside has built a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notably, Riverside has made several acquisitions in the packaging sector, including Vitex Packaging Group in 1998, which specializes in packaging solutions, and Selig Group in 2002, known for its packaging products. These transactions highlight Riverside's commitment to the packaging industry, which includes corrugated paper packaging, demonstrating their capability to support transformative growth in this sector.


3. Sonoco

  • Website: sonoco.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hartsville, South Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1899
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: sonoco

Sonoco Products Company, founded in 1899 and based in Hartsville, South Carolina, is a leading packaging manufacturer that offers a diverse range of consumer and industrial packaging solutions. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees and operations in multiple countries, Sonoco serves various industries, including food and beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The company focuses on innovative packaging solutions tailored to meet customer needs. Notably, Sonoco has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the packaging sector. In 2021, they acquired D&W Paper Tubes, Inc., which specializes in sustainable industrial paper tubes, thereby strengthening their position in the corrugated paper packaging market. This acquisition aligns with their strategy to expand their offerings in paper-based packaging solutions. Additionally, Sonoco has pursued acquisitions in flexible packaging, such as Clear Lam Packaging and RTS Packaging, indicating a broad interest in packaging solutions beyond just corrugated paper. Overall, Sonoco's diverse portfolio and strategic acquisitions make them a significant player in the packaging industry, including corrugated paper packaging.


4. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. With over 4,000 startups launched, Y Combinator has established itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its diverse investments, Y Combinator has backed Georgette Packaging, which raised $120,000 in a Pre-Seed round in March 2016, indicating its involvement in the packaging industry. This investment highlights Y Combinator's interest in sectors that may include corrugated paper packaging, alongside its primary focus on technology.


5. Atlas Holdings LLC


Atlas Holdings LLC is a private equity investment firm founded in 2002, based in the United States. The firm specializes in building and managing a diversified group of manufacturing and distribution businesses across various sectors. They focus on transforming underperforming companies into high-performance organizations, serving customers in industries such as automotive, construction, and food processing. Notably, Atlas Holdings has made significant investments in the paper industry, including the acquisition of Crown Paper Group, which encompasses Crown Corrugated Company and Port Townsend Paper, highlighting their involvement in the corrugated paper packaging sector. Additionally, they acquired Twin Rivers Paper Company and Marcal Paper Mills, further solidifying their presence in the paper manufacturing landscape. These transactions reflect Atlas Holdings' commitment to enhancing operational performance and expanding their portfolio in relevant industries.


6. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on driving long-term value for its clients, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired Signode Industrial Group, a company that operates in the packaging sector, on May 2, 2014. This acquisition highlights Carlyle's involvement in the packaging industry, which includes corrugated paper packaging. Additionally, Carlyle's acquisition of HCP Packaging in 2022 further emphasizes its commitment to the packaging sector. While Carlyle also invests in companies like Novolex and Logoplaste, which focus on plastic packaging, its engagement in the packaging industry overall positions it as a relevant player in the corrugated paper packaging space.


7. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. The firm has been actively involved in the packaging sector, with notable transactions including the acquisition of a 70% stake in CMC Machinery, a leading Italian manufacturer of automated packaging solutions, valued at approximately $1.3 billion. This acquisition marks KKR's first Italian deal through its Global Impact Fund and highlights its commitment to the packaging industry. Additionally, KKR's investment in Charter Next Generation, a company focused on packaging, and its €100 million deal with Petainer, a UK packaging company, further demonstrate its engagement in the packaging market. These transactions reflect KKR's strategic interest in the packaging sector, including corrugated paper packaging, as part of its broader investment portfolio.


8. UFP Industries

  • Website: ufpi.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1955
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: ufp-industries

UFP Industries, Inc. is a manufacturer and supplier based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, specializing in lumber, treated lumber, packaging solutions, and construction components. Founded in 1955, the company serves various sectors, including retail and construction, providing essential materials that meet industry standards. UFP Industries has a global presence and focuses on delivering high-quality products to its customers. Notably, UFP has made significant strides in the packaging sector through strategic acquisitions. For instance, they acquired UBEECO Packaging Solutions, an Australian wood packaging manufacturer, to enhance their industrial packaging business and enter the Australian market. Additionally, their acquisition of Integra Packaging, an Australian packaging supplier, for $12 million, supports their growth in international markets. UFP also acquired Packnet Ltd., which specializes in industrial packaging, further solidifying their commitment to expanding their packaging offerings. These transactions highlight UFP Industries' active role in the packaging industry, including corrugated paper packaging.


9. Graphic Packaging International, LLC


Graphic Packaging International, LLC is a corporate investor based in Atlanta, Georgia, specializing in paper-based packaging solutions for various industries, including food, beverage, and consumer products. Founded in 1920, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 people and is recognized for its commitment to innovation and sustainability in packaging. In recent years, Graphic Packaging has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the corrugated paper packaging market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Seydaco Packaging Corp., a folding carton producer, and Bell Incorporated, which is expected to add significant sales and EBITDA. Additionally, their acquisition of AR Packaging Group for approximately $1.45 billion aims to bolster their global scale and innovation in fiber-based consumer packaging. These transactions highlight Graphic Packaging's active role in the corrugated paper packaging industry and its dedication to expanding its market presence.


10. Wind Point Partners

  • Website: wppartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: wind-point-partners

Wind Point Partners is a private equity firm based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in middle-market investments since its founding in 1984. The firm partners with business owners and executives to provide capital and strategic guidance, focusing on long-term value creation. Their expertise spans various sectors, including business services, consumer products, and industrial products. Notably, Wind Point Partners has made significant investments in the packaging industry, including the acquisition of Novolex, a leading provider of packaging solutions, which encompasses corrugated paper products. Additionally, they have acquired other companies such as Paragon Films, Hearthside Food Solutions, Ryt-way Industries, and Ox Engineered Products, showcasing their diverse investment portfolio and strategic focus on growth and transformation for their portfolio companies.


11. Berlin Packaging

  • Website: berlinpackaging.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: berlin-packaging

Berlin Packaging, founded in 1998 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a leading packaging supplier that offers a comprehensive range of packaging solutions, including design, sourcing, quality assurance, and supply chain management. The company serves various industries such as food, beverage, and personal care, helping businesses enhance product presentation and streamline operations. In recent years, Berlin Packaging has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its market position and expand its capabilities. Notably, they acquired Andler Packaging Group, which focuses on pharmaceutical and nutraceutical packaging, and Novio Packaging Group, which enhances their portfolio across various packaging substrates. These transactions indicate Berlin Packaging's commitment to broadening its packaging solutions, which may encompass corrugated paper packaging as part of their diverse offerings.


12. Apollo Global Management, Inc.

  • Website: apollo.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 46
  • LinkedIn: apollo-global-management-inc

Apollo Global Management, Inc. is an asset management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative assets and retirement solutions. Founded in 1990, the firm manages a diverse portfolio across credit, private equity, and real assets, catering to institutional investors, corporations, and individual clients. Notably, Apollo has made significant strides in the packaging sector, acquiring a majority stake in Novolex Holdings LLC, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions, which includes corrugated paper products. Additionally, their acquisition of a controlling stake in Reno De Medici Group, a producer of paper products, further emphasizes their commitment to the packaging industry. These strategic investments highlight Apollo's focus on innovative capital solutions and sustainability within the packaging market.


13. International Paper


International Paper is a leading manufacturing company based in Memphis, Tennessee, specializing in packaging and paper products. Founded in 1898, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and offers a diverse range of products, including corrugated packaging, paper bags, and various types of pulp. Their customer base spans multiple industries, relying on International Paper for effective packaging solutions and sustainable practices. Notably, in 2024, International Paper announced its acquisition of DS Smith for £5.8 billion, which would significantly enhance its position in the corrugated packaging sector. Additionally, the acquisition of Berkley International's moulded fibre division in 2021 and Omaha Paper Stock Company in 2014 further demonstrates their strategic focus on expanding their packaging capabilities. These transactions underscore International Paper's commitment to the corrugated packaging industry and its role as a key investor in this space.


14. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for delivering lasting value through its extensive portfolio and strategic investment approaches. Notably, Blackstone has made significant investments in the packaging industry, including the acquisition of a majority stake in Essel Propack for up to $460 million, which highlights their commitment to the packaging sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Gerresheimer Glas, an international packaging company, further emphasizes their involvement in the packaging market. These transactions illustrate Blackstone's strategic interest in the packaging industry, making them a relevant player in the corrugated paper packaging space.


15. One Equity Partners

  • Website: oneequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: one-equity-partners

One Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, founded in 2001. The firm specializes in investing in middle-market businesses across various sectors, including industrial, healthcare, and technology. One Equity Partners aims to build market-leading companies through transformative business combinations and strategic partnerships, providing capital and management expertise to enhance growth. Notably, they have been involved in several significant transactions in the packaging industry, such as the acquisition of Constantia Flexibles, a company known for its flexible packaging solutions, and Walki Group Oy, which operates in the packaging sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Alltub, a specialty packaging firm, further demonstrates their engagement in the packaging market, which may include corrugated paper packaging solutions.



Corrugated Paper Packaging Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
SonocoHartsville, South Carolina, United States (USA)10001+18992
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
Atlas Holdings LLCUnited States (USA)11-5020023
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
UFP IndustriesGrand Rapids, Michigan, United States (USA)10001+19550
Graphic Packaging International, LLCAtlanta, Georgia, United States (USA)10001+19200
Wind Point PartnersChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-5019843
Berlin PackagingChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)1001-500019983
Apollo Global Management, Inc.New York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000199046
International PaperMemphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)10001+18986
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
One Equity PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200111


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