The paper and paper-based packaging industry’s national research and promotion program, administered by the Paper and Packaging Board (P+PB), will not continue following the results of the July continuance referendum vote.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the results where 74% of manufacturers and importers voting, who represented 90% of the volume of paper and paper-based packaging that voted in the referendum, were not in favor of continuing the program.
For the referendum to pass, the number of voting companies and the voting tons they represent must be over 50% in favor of continuing the program. To participate in the referendum, manufacturers and importers had to manufacture/import 100,000 short tons or more in 2024.
P+PB is now in the process of shutting down the program and the organization.
“While I am very disappointed by the results, I am proud of all the progress we have made as an industry speaking with one voice and the positive improvements in industry reputation and preference for its products,” said Mary Anne Hansan, President, P+PB. “We are grateful to the companies and their employees who supported the program with their talent and time for more than 11 years.”
Steve Henry, President of Domtar and Chairman of the P+PB Board, reflected on the power of the campaign and what P+PB achieved. “The paper and packaging industry collaborated together to increase preference for and demand for its products through this consumer advertising campaign,” Henry said. “The P+PB Board is very proud of what the organization accomplished and the powerful legacy it leaves for the future.”
