UK-based packaging supplier Sadlers finds a 29% YOY increase in the number of companies selling surplus cardboard boxes through their reuse scheme so far in 2023.

Additionally, global interest in cardboard boxes increased by 115%, and recycled boxes are seeing a 92% uplift in popularity.

The company predicts that an economic squeeze and increased interest in corporate sustainability could be set to fuel the reuse movement.

Cardboard is renewable and biodegradable as it is made from raw wood. GlobalData reports that business leaders expect a higher demand for cardboard than any other packaging material.

Indeed, UK supermarket chain Sainsbury’s announced a move from plastic to cardboard material for its steak range. Meanwhile, packaging companies such as McFarlane have launched new machinery for cardboard boxes to meet market demand.

Sadlers head of sustainability and communications Lauren Sadler comments: “For many businesses, the first instinct is to scrap things like used cardboard sheets and layer pads. But ESG initiatives result in a greater number of organisations switching to reused packaging and taking advantage of buyback schemes.”

Sadlers operates a stock purchasing scheme, buying redundant and surplus stock from manufacturing and distribution organisations across Western Europe.

In addition to the used and recycled cardboard boom, Google Trends also reports a +51% increase in popularity for ‘ESG’ and +140% uplift for corporate sustainability in the last 12 months which the packaging industry can take full advantage of.