AICC’s 2025 Sales Compensation Report Reveals Key Trends in Packaging Industry Pay Practices

Nov. 18, 2025 - AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, has released the 14th edition of the Sales Compensation Report. This comprehensive benchmarking resource provides the most current insight into salaries, incentives, and benefits being offered to sales professionals at independent corrugator plants and sheet plants across the United States.

Based on survey data collected earlier this year from 45 independent corrugators and sheet plants, representing 65 locations nationwide, the Report captures nearly $1.0 billion in corrugated product sales during 2024. The findings present a detailed view of compensation practices segmented by plant type, plant size, and region, giving AICC members the data they need to make informed, competitive decisions.

"Finding and keeping people remains a challenge for AICC members. As competition for top sales talent continues to grow, understanding market compensation trends is critical," said AICC President Mike D'Angelo. "This report offers members a real-life, data-driven foundation to ensure their compensation strategies are fair, effective, and competitive."

As of January 1, 2025, the Report shows:

• Average base salary for salespersons at U.S. sheet plants was $80,300, with total compensation averaging $165,882.

• Average base salary at corrugator plants was $109,084, with total compensation averaging $226,165.

Compared to AICC's previous report, base salaries have remained steady at sheet plants while increasing by approximately 21% at corrugator plants. Meanwhile, total compensation has declined slightly — by 11% at sheet plants and 6% at corrugator plants.

Beyond salary data, the Report explores critical operational elements influencing sales success, including product mix, sales objectives, and time allocation. Readers are also offered a look into the future of sales. The Report examines how technology and social media are transforming engagement strategies and explores the early yet growing influence of artificial intelligence as a catalyst for continued progress.

All responses were collected and compiled by Industry Insights, Inc. (Dublin, OH) and held in strict confidence. Participating companies received a complimentary copy of the full Report in appreciation of their contribution. The 2025 Sales Compensation Report can be purchased at www.AICCbox.org/store.

AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, represents and protects the business interests of its members in the independent sector of the corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box industries.