Citi maintains positive outlook on US Containers, Packaging sector

Published 29/05/2025, 15:12
Citi maintains positive outlook on US Containers, Packaging sector

On Thursday, Citi issued comments on the US Containers and Packaging (NYSE:PKG) industry, highlighting a supportive outlook based on the latest data. Canpack, a key player in the sector, reported a 3% year-over-year increase in total company volumes, driven by significant growth in Asia and Africa. This rise helped to balance out the flat demand in Europe and a slight decline in the Americas. The sector’s dynamics are particularly interesting for investors seeking detailed insights, with comprehensive analysis available through InvestingPro’s extensive coverage of packaging industry leaders.

Canpack’s European operations are currently running at maximum volume outputs, and the company maintains a cautious optimism for the remainder of 2025. Despite flat year-over-year volumes in April and May, Canpack is experiencing growth in Asia, Africa, and India, which compensates for declines in the Americas, primarily due to Brazil’s market, and stagnant performance in Europe due to capacity constraints. To mitigate these limitations, Canpack plans to expand its capacity by 2 billion units in the second quarter of 2026.

The firm’s net leverage is at 2.2 times, which is within its long-term target range. In the US, canmakers are surpassing expectations, particularly in the demand for beverage cans. Nielsen data shows a 6.5% year-over-year increase in demand for aluminum cans in the non-alcoholic segment, suggesting a potential fifth consecutive quarter of acceleration. This growth is seen as especially beneficial for Crown Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:CCK) and Ardagh Metal Packaging S.A. (AMBP). Keurig Dr Pepper’s (NASDAQ:KDP) canned non-alcoholic beverages have seen a 9.3% increase, outpacing competitors like Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) and PepsiCo (NASDAQ:PEP). According to InvestingPro data, KDP boasts impressive gross profit margins of 55.25% and has achieved revenue growth of 3.95% over the last twelve months. The company, currently valued at $44.68 billion, has maintained strong financial health with an EBITDA of $4.17 billion.

Despite the imposition of a tariff on canned beer imports from Mexico, Constellation Brands (NYSE:STZ) has maintained a steady demand for its canned beverages. Glass demand is also showing signs of recovery, with the current quarter’s performance potentially being the best since the first quarter of 2021. However, plastic continues to experience a decline, particularly in the non-alcoholic sector. For investors interested in deeper analysis, InvestingPro reveals that KDP offers a dividend yield of 2.81% and has raised its dividend for 4 consecutive years, with additional insights available in the comprehensive Pro Research Report covering over 1,400 US equities.

Citi’s comments reflect a nuanced view of the industry, recognizing growth in specific segments and geographies while taking into account the challenges faced in others. As the industry adapts to changing demands and prepares for capacity expansions, the outlook for the US Containers and Packaging sector remains positive according to Citi’s analysis.

In other recent news, Keurig Dr Pepper reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, surpassing analysts’ expectations with an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.42, compared to the forecasted $0.38. The company also exceeded revenue expectations, reporting $3.64 billion against the anticipated $3.56 billion. HSBC upgraded Keurig Dr Pepper’s stock rating from Hold to Buy, raising the price target to $42, following the company’s announcement of a 6% net sales growth and a 10% increase in comparable EPS. In a strategic move, JAB Holding Company plans to sell 75 million shares of Keurig Dr Pepper, reducing its ownership to about 4.4% of the company’s common stock.

Additionally, Keurig Dr Pepper announced changes to its board, with Robert Gamgort transitioning to non-employee Chairman of the Board, and the appointment of Michael Van de Ven and Lawson Whiting as independent directors. The company also launched a "Price Lock Event" for new auto-delivery subscribers, allowing them to secure K-Cup pod prices through the end of 2025 amid rising coffee costs. This initiative aims to provide stability for consumers facing increasing coffee bean prices. These developments reflect Keurig Dr Pepper’s ongoing efforts to enhance shareholder value and adapt to market conditions.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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