From 22 to 24 May 2025, over 130 experts from the European paper sack and sack kraft paper industry gathered in Thessaloniki for the annual Eurosac Congress. Under the motto „Focus on the paper sacks of tomorrow“, the participants discussed key topics for the future - from regulatory developments and recycling initiatives to behaviour-related sustainability strategies.
After a noticeable decline in 2023, the European market for paper sacks recovered by 2.2 % to 5.32 billion units in 2024. Applications for food (+6.8 %), animal feed and chemical products (+6.2 % each) grew particularly strongly. An increase of 3.1 % was also reported in the building materials sector (excluding cement). The first quarter of 2025 points to a further solid upward trend, according to the report.
Future through circular economy and cooperation
The congress focussed on preparations for the EU regulation on deforestation (EUDR) and strategies for functioning recycling structures. An alliance of over 70 companies and 180 construction sites is currently driving forward pilot projects for the multi-material recycling of paper sacks. The message: „The circular economy does not happen on its own - it needs cross-industry cooperation“.
Another focus was the question of how behavioural change can be promoted in practice. Sam Gray (RARE Europe) emphasised that simple, emotionally positive messages are much more effective than appeals to guilt or duty. His guiding principle: „Make the right choice the easy choice“.
Eurosac: paper sack beats plastic in comparative studies
In a detailed material comparison, 50 kg cement bags made of WPP (woven polypropylene) were compared with paper-based alternatives. According to Eurosac, the results are clear:
- 21 % faster filling
- 4 times less product loss
- 1/3 less dust generation
- 50 % lower CO₂ emissions
In addition, the production of paper bags consumes only 20 % of energy and 1/10 of labour compared to WPP production.
Grand Prix Award 2025: Innovation in competition
The highlight of the congress was the Eurosac Grand Prix, which honoured four outstanding packaging solutions:
- Gold: eXpandyble from dy-pack - a stretchable bag with 30 % volume adjustment that speeds up filling processes and supports recycling.
- Silver: Future-Proof Paper Sack for Low-Carbon Cement by W. Gröning & Billerud - breathable paper plus PCR-based HDPE film for low-emission cement.
- Bronze: re/cycle PaperPlus Bag Advanced from Mondi - new 20 µm film replaces HDPE with the same moisture protection.
- Public Choice: ConFlex HeatSeal from Billerud - PE-free, heat-sealable paper with a CEPI recycling value of 18/20, which is already replacing plastic for a furniture brand.
Source: Eurosac
