Shredded Paper Filler Market Forecasts to 2032 – Global Analysis By Material (Virgin Paper, Recycled Paper), Shred Size (Micro-Cut, Cross-Cut, Strip-Cut and Other Shred Sizes), Color, Application, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Shredded Paper Filler Market is accounted for $1.86 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $2.78 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period. The term ""shredded paper filler"" describes pieces of paper that have been finely sliced or crinkled and are mostly used for packaging, padding, or decoration. It is an environmentally beneficial substitute for plastic fillers because it is made from virgin or recycled paper. Shredded paper filler, which is frequently used in gift wrapping, shipping breakables, or improving product presentation, shields contents from harm by absorbing shocks and stopping movement. It also provides visual appeal and comes in a variety of colours, textures, and sizes. It is a popular option for environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging solutions because it is recyclable and biodegradable.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions

Sustainable alternatives to plastic fillers are becoming more and more popular among consumers and businesses. Fillers made of shredded paper have recyclable and biodegradable qualities that comply with environmental standards. Manufacturers are encouraged to use shredded paper for protective packaging as a result of this demand. Market expansion is also fuelled by growing awareness of the need to reduce carbon footprints. In general, shredded paper fillers are widely used in many industries due to eco-conscious tendencies.

Restraint:

Limited durability and cushioning compared to synthetic fillers

The safety of delicate objects is jeopardised because shredded paper provides less cushioning than synthetic fillers. Because of this flaw, producers and packagers favour synthetic substitutes for improved shock absorption. Paper filler's reduced durability also restricts its reusability, raising expenses and waste. Inconsistent cushioning performance can also lead to returns and unhappy customers. All things considered, these factors impede the expansion and broader use of shredded paper filler in the packaging industry.

Opportunity:

Rising e-commerce and gifting trends

The market is additionally driven by the rise in online gifting trends, since shredded paper filler improves the appearance and security of gift items. Because of its environmentally beneficial qualities, it fits in nicely with customer demands for eco-friendly packaging options for e-commerce shipments. Shredded paper filler is being used by retailers more and more to create eye-catching unpacking experiences that increase consumer retention. Furthermore, the growth of subscription-based and personalised gifting services feeds ongoing demand. All things considered, shredded paper filler's convenience and attractiveness are major drivers of its market expansion in tandem with growing e-commerce and gifting trends.

Threat:

Competition from alternative sustainable fillers

Customers are drawn away from shredded paper by the abundance of alternatives that provide better performance, cost-effectiveness, or environmental advantages. These alternatives could include recycled plastics, starch-based fillers, or biodegradable foams, which can better satisfy particular packaging requirements. Shredded paper demand growth is slowed by the development and accessibility of substitute fillers. Furthermore, some substitutes are more enticing because they are easier to handle, offer superior cushioning, or absorb less moisture. In order to preserve market share, shredded paper fillers must innovate and compete on quality and sustainability.

Covid-19 Impact

The COVID‑19 pandemic swiftly disrupted the global shredded paper filler market: non‑essential items saw sharp demand declines as production halted under lockdown measures, while supply chains struggled under movement restrictions—causing material shortages and logistical delays. Essential packaging use persisted, but overall volumes dipped significantly. Manufacturers began shifting supply chains away from China, exploring more resilient sourcing strategies. The crisis prompted strategic pivots and stronger contingency planning, positioning the industry for steadier recovery and future growth.

The virgin paper segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The virgin paper segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period by providing high-quality raw material that enhances filler performance. Its natural texture and absorbency improve the bulk and cushioning properties of shredded fillers. The eco-friendly nature of virgin paper aligns with growing sustainability demands, boosting market preference. Additionally, virgin paper’s consistent quality reduces processing issues, increasing efficiency for manufacturers. These factors collectively propel the demand and growth of the shredded paper filler market.

The logistics & shipping segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Over the forecast period, the logistics & shipping segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate, due to efficient delivery of raw materials and finished products. Advanced transportation networks reduce lead times and lower overall supply chain costs, enhancing market competitiveness. Reliable shipping services enable manufacturers to meet growing demand across diverse regions, boosting market expansion. Additionally, improvements in packaging and handling during shipping maintain product quality and reduce damage risks. Overall, the seamless integration of logistics and shipping drives scalability and accessibility in the shredded paper filler market.

Region with largest share:

During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share due to booming online retail and increased usage in personal and corporate gifting. Countries like China, Japan, and India are witnessing growing consumer preference for sustainable and biodegradable packaging, prompting manufacturers to offer locally sourced paper fillers. Additionally, cost-effective production capabilities and government initiatives supporting green packaging are enhancing market growth. Aesthetic trends, such as minimalist packaging in Japan and colorful presentation styles in Southeast Asia, are further fuelling demand.

Region with highest CAGR:

Over the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR, owing to by increasing demand for eco-friendly and recyclable packaging solutions, particularly in the e-commerce and gift retail sectors. Rising consumer awareness about sustainable practices and stringent environmental regulations have encouraged businesses to adopt paper-based alternatives over plastic fillers. The U.S. dominates regional consumption due to its large packaging industry and growing interest in zero-waste packaging. The market is also benefiting from innovation in colored and textured shredded fillers for premium presentation applications.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Shredded Paper Filler Market include Pregis LLC, Mondi plc, Smurfit Kappa Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Stora Enso, Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd., The Paper Factory, International Paper Company, WestRock Company, DS Smith Plc, UPM-Kymmene Corporation, Cascades Inc., Georgia-Pacific LLC, Pratt Industries, Inc., Clearwater Paper Corporation, Sonoco Products Company, KapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation and Mohawk Fine Papers Inc.

Key Developments:

In October 2024, Mondi agreed to acquire the Western European packaging assets of Schumacher Packaging for €634 million. This acquisition includes state-of-the-art box production plants in Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands, enhancing Mondi's capacity in corrugated packaging and expanding its presence in eCommerce markets.

In August 2024, Pregis announced significant investments in new production lines at its Bethel, Pennsylvania, and Reno, Nevada facilities to increase capacity for its EverTec™ Mailer portfolio, focusing on the EverTec Non-Cushioned Mailer.

In September 2023, Mondi partnered with Veetee to introduce the UK's first recyclable paper-based packaging for dry rice. Utilizing Mondi's FunctionalBarrier Paper, the packaging offers moisture protection and supports Veetee's sustainability goals by reducing plastic usage.

Materials Covered:
• Virgin Paper
• Recycled Paper

Shred Sizes Covered:
• Micro-Cut
• Cross-Cut
• Strip-Cut
• Other Shred Sizes

Colors Covered:
• Natural
• Colored
• Printed
• Other Colors

Applications Covered:
• Packaging & Cushioning
• Gift Wrapping
• Crafts & Decoration
• Animal Bedding & Nesting
• Horticulture & Gardening
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:
• E-commerce
• Retail
• Logistics & Shipping
• Consumer Goods
• Food & Beverages
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2028, and 2032
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements