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Mar 31

PCA Q1 2025 Earnings Report

PCA reported strong Q1 results with record revenue and higher EPS driven by packaging segment performance.

Key Takeaways

Packaging Corporation of America delivered a robust Q1 2025, achieving record first-quarter revenue and increased earnings driven by improved pricing and mix in its Packaging segment, despite cost pressures and trade uncertainty.

Achieved record Q1 revenue of $2.141 billion.

Reported EPS of $2.26 and adjusted EPS of $2.31, beating guidance by $0.10.

Net income increased to $204 million, reflecting operational efficiencies and cost control.

Packaging segment drove growth with strong box demand and effective price increases.

Total Revenue
$2.14B
Previous year: $1.98B
+8.1%
EPS
$2.31
Previous year: $1.72
+34.3%
Containerboard Production
1.25M
Gross Profit
$455M
Previous year: $370M
+22.8%
Cash and Equivalents
$914M
Previous year: $1.25B
-27.0%
Free Cash Flow
$191M
Previous year: $184M
+4.0%

PCA

PCA

PCA Revenue by Segment

Forward Guidance

PCA expects Q2 2025 EPS of $2.41, reflecting implementation of price increases and scheduled maintenance impacts.

Positive Outlook

  • Domestic prices expected to improve in Packaging segment.
  • Box shipments forecasted to increase.
  • Continued implementation of higher published paper prices.
  • Strong balance sheet and capital position.
  • Ongoing cost reduction initiatives to mitigate inflation.

Challenges Ahead

  • Uncertainty from global trade tensions may impact demand.
  • Higher Q2 operating costs due to adjusted maintenance outage schedule.
  • Planned outage at International Falls mill to reduce Paper segment volume.
  • Rail contract rate hikes to increase freight and logistics expenses.
  • Higher depreciation expense expected in Q2.

Revenue & Expenses

Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income