Graphic Packaging Holding Company has expanded its paperboard portfolio with the launch of PaceSetter Ridgeline, marking the company’s entry into the uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) market. Announced on 13 July 2026, the new grade is designed for folding cartons, laminations, edge protectors, tubes and cores, and other specialty applications, broadening the company’s offering for consumer and industrial packaging customers.
What is uncoated recycled paperboard?
Uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) is a paperboard material made primarily from recycled fibre without a coated surface finish. It is widely used in industrial and consumer packaging applications where strength, durability and sustainability are priorities. The material supports circular economy goals by increasing the use of recycled fibre in packaging products.
At a glance
- Graphic Packaging has entered the uncoated recycled paperboard market.
- The company launched its new PaceSetter Ridgeline grade.
- The product is made from 100% recycled fibre.
- It contains at least 45% post-consumer recycled content.
- Available in 14- to 30-point calipers.
- Manufactured at the company’s Waco, Texas paperboard mill.
- Designed for folding cartons, laminations, tubes, cores, edge protectors and other specialty applications.
Why has Graphic Packaging launched PaceSetter Ridgeline?
The launch expands Graphic Packaging’s recycled paperboard portfolio beyond coated grades, allowing the company to serve additional packaging markets. By adding an uncoated option, the business aims to meet demand from customers requiring recycled paperboard for both consumer and industrial applications while increasing manufacturing flexibility.
What are the product’s key features?
PaceSetter Ridgeline is manufactured using 100% recycled fibre, including at least 45% post-consumer recycled content. The product is available in 14- to 30-point calipers and is produced at Graphic Packaging’s Waco, Texas facility, which can switch between coated and uncoated recycled paperboard production to respond to changing customer requirements.
According to the company, the mill’s manufacturing technology supports sheet squareness, colour consistency, quality assurance and converting performance for high-volume packaging applications.
Why does this matter for the packaging industry?
Demand for recycled fibre packaging continues to grow as food, beverage and consumer goods companies work to reduce the environmental impact of packaging while maintaining performance and supply reliability. Expanding recycled paperboard options gives packaging buyers more flexibility across a wider range of applications.
For manufacturers supplying supermarkets and FMCG brands, broader recycled paperboard portfolios can help support packaging redesign projects as businesses continue investing in more sustainable materials and circular packaging solutions.
What happens next?
Graphic Packaging is expected to market PaceSetter Ridgeline to both existing and new customers across consumer and industrial sectors. As demand for recycled fibre packaging continues to increase, the launch strengthens the company’s position in the paperboard market while expanding its product offering beyond coated recycled paperboard. For the US packaging industry, the launch reflects continued investment in recycled fibre materials as manufacturers and consumer goods brands seek packaging solutions that support sustainability goals, operational efficiency and evolving customer requirements.
Editor’s note: This article is based on information released by Graphic Packaging Holding Company on 13 July 2026. It reflects the corrected technical specification stating that PaceSetter Ridgeline is available in 14- to 30-point calipers.
