Aug 24, 2005. /Lesprom Network/. The Paperboard Packaging Council announced that folding carton shipments reached an estimated $4.5 billion and 2,814.4 thousands tonnes in the first half of 2005. As compared to 2004, the year-to-date 2005 shipments measured in dollars increased by 0.2%, while tonnes decreased by 2.1%. These results show that while tonnage has slipped, sales continue to be robust. Growth over the last few months in folding carton shipments has continued to look somewhat lackluster compared to the same period in 2004. However, when the percentage change in shipments is charted as a three-month rolling average, the growth rate remains above zero, except in April. The small upturn in May and June shipments may portend a return to stronger growth. Depending on which measurement is used, dollar volume or tonnage, the first half of 2005 looks to be the strongest half-year in five years.Based on PPC’s Trends Report series, PPC expects 2005 to finish as a stronger year than 2004 in dollar volume, but also predicts tonnage growth will continue to slip modestly. Results cited are based on data from PPC’s Market Flash program, which tracks folding carton shipments, orders and inventory flow monthly. Participants in this program are PPC members, and represent a significant portion of the folding carton market. With antecedents dating to 1929, the Paperboard Packaging Council is the leading trade association serving suppliers and converters of all forms of paperboard packaging, including folding cartons, rigid boxes, paper cylinders and laminated small-flute containers. PPC’s mission is to grow, promote and protect the paperboard packaging industry, and provide tools for members to compete effectively in the marketplace.