Sonoco raises EMEA prices for uncoated recycled paperboard by €60/tonne

# What happened Sonoco announced a price increase for uncoated recycled paperboard across the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. The rise is €60 per tonne and applies to shipments made on or after 15 September 2026.

# Why Sonoco is increasing prices The company says ongoing cost inflation across its operations and supply chain is driving the decision. Sonoco highlighted expected increases in energy and fuel costs that will add pressure to operating and transportation expenses. Management stated these additional costs cannot be absorbed and must be passed on to the market.

# Context within Sonoco's recent pricing moves This is one of several pricing adjustments Sonoco has announced in 2026:

• In April the company set an €80/tonne increase for uncoated recycled paperboard and an 8% price increase for tube and core products in EMEA.
• Last month Sonoco implemented a $60/tonne increase for all grades of its uncoated recycled paperboard in the US and Canada.

These consecutive actions show the company is adjusting pricing across geographies to address cost pressures.

# What Sonoco's EMEA footprint looks like

# Immediate implications for buyers and supply chains

# Sector background and related developments Other packaging-industry moves and market activity are happening around the same time: associations and competitors have made their own pricing announcements, and there have been asset transactions in the recycled-board sector. For buyers, tracking producer price actions alongside mill acquisitions and capacity changes is relevant to short- and medium-term supply availability and pricing.

# Practical next steps for procurement and finance teams

• Review upcoming purchase orders and contract terms to identify shipments affected on or after 15 September 2026.
• Recalculate cost forecasts and consider renegotiating multi-month or annual supply agreements to lock pricing or include inflation triggers.
• Assess alternatives across suppliers and consider inventory timing to minimize exposure to the new rate.
• Monitor energy and transport cost trends that Sonoco cited, since further increases could prompt additional price changes.

# Bottom line Sonoco's €60/tonne EMEA increase for uncoated recycled paperboard is a targeted response to measurable cost pressures it attributes to inflation, energy and fuel. Buyers should adjust near-term budgets and procurement plans to reflect the change and consider the company's prior regional price moves when evaluating total cost exposure.