STATE OF THE INDUSTRY ON THE OFFENSIVE

•In late 2001, Chesapeake Corporation agreed to sell senior subordinated notes once used to repay outstanding debt. Chesapeake also announced a restructuring plan, which included the realignment of senior management to reflect its global focus.

Sunnier skies in 2002

The demand for food containers in the US is expected to grow more than 3 percent annually to $12.6 billion in 2005, says The Freedonia Group's January 2002, study, "Food Containers." It continues: "Paperboard will remain dominant in many traditional applications due to its strength, stiffness, competitive pricing structure, and favorable environmental profile. Improved graphics and stronger moisture barriers will also aid growth." Although faster growth is expected for aseptic and gabletop cartons, the study predicts folding cartons to provide the best opportunity.