Saturated Kraft Paper Market: Growing Use in the Construction Industry

Saturated Kraft Paper Market Overview

Saturated kraft paper is a specialty paper crafted from sawdust, known for its strength and unique properties. It is widely used in applications such as flooring, dividers, countertops, and storage. Its recyclability ensures minimal environmental impact, making it ideal for the construction and manufacturing industries. Key benefits include stiffness, high porosity, eco-friendliness, tear resistance, and product uniformity. Additionally, saturated kraft paper serves as an effective moisture barrier, enhancing its utility in laminates for product consistency and durability. Chemical additives are often incorporated to boost its strength, thickness, and longevity.

Technological advancements in the paper industry drive innovation in the saturated kraft paper market. Improvements in chemical applications, papermaking machinery, and pulp processing have enhanced the strength, durability, and moisture resistance of kraft paper, making it more versatile for various applications.

The growing retail sector demands strong, biodegradable packaging materials to accommodate expanding product volumes. Saturated kraft paper meets this need by offering sustainable packaging solutions that align with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. The global retail industry’s expansion further fuels the demand for saturated kraft paper to meet packaging requirements across industries, supporting sustainability, product presentation, and protection.

Global Production Trends

Unbleached kraft paper is gaining traction due to its flexibility and zero greenhouse gas emissions during production, making it an environmentally friendly packaging material. Its increased use in coffee packaging is expected to drive revenue growth throughout the forecast period.

The bleached segment of the global saturated kraft paper market is projected to grow at a steady pace. Bleached kraft paper, treated with bleach and other chemicals, offers a whiter, cleaner appearance and improved durability compared to standard brown kraft paper.

End Use Case

Saturated kraft paper is renowned for its strength and durability, achieved through sawdust processing and treatment with resin or other saturating agents. These enhancements provide excellent water resistance and longevity, making it suitable for residential and commercial applications such as worktops, cabinets, shelves, dividers, floors, and panels. The growing adoption of saturated kraft paper in these areas is expected to boost sales.

The market for customized saturated kraft paper is also expanding, particularly in laminate flooring. Unlike ceramics or wood, laminate flooring offers a cost-effective alternative with diverse design options, driving market dynamism and consumer interest.

Market Dynamics and Drivers

Evolving consumer preferences for interior design and modern lifestyles are key drivers of the saturated kraft paper market. Increased construction investments in both developed and developing countries create growth opportunities for manufacturers. Decorative laminates, often made with saturated kraft paper, are used to enhance plywood surfaces with textures like stone, marble, or custom prints. The rising popularity of contemporary interior design and laminate flooring is expected to further propel market growth. For instance, investment in Canada’s building construction industry grew from US$19,169 million in 2021 to US$19,826 million in 2023.

Figure 1: Investment in Building Construction Industry, USD Millions, Canada, 2021 to 2023

Source: Statistics Canada

The growing demand for sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging, driven by environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, is further boosting the market for saturated kraft paper. Additionally, the rise of digital printing enhances market dynamics, as saturated kraft paper’s compatibility with digital printing technologies supports innovative and aesthetically appealing packaging designs.

Key Developments

• In December 2023, Mondi, a leading supplier of eco-friendly packaging and paper, expanded its capacity and product range for saturated kraft paper to better serve manufacturers of technical films, furniture, worktops, and building panels. Improvements in paper machine efficiency, forming, and drying properties have enhanced production capabilities, offering a wider range of grammages to meet diverse customer needs.
• In June 2022, Stora Enso launched AvantForte WhiteTop, a 100% virgin fibre-based kraft liner for premium markets like fresh food, e-commerce, and shelf-ready packaging. This plastic-free product is designed for applications requiring high strength, purity, and visual appeal.