Slump in Cardboard Box Sales Stokes Fears of Weak Holiday Retail

An extended slowdown in sales of cardboard boxes is intensifying concern that this holiday season will be a disappointing one for US retailers.

US corrugated box shipments fell to the lowest third-quarter reading since 2015, maintaining the more measured pace seen in the previous quarter, according to Friday data from industry group Fibre Box Association. Packaging companies in recent weeks have warned that economic uncertainty is weighing on retailers and consumers.

Shipments of corrugated cardboard — the material used to package goods shipped to and from retailers, and for elaborate store displays — can serve as a demand indicator for ...