November 5, 2025
AICC Sales Compensation report highlights key benchmarking data
AICC has released the 14th edition of the 2025 Independent Packaging Association Sales Compensation Report. Based on a survey conducted earlier this year, this is the most up-to-date look at salaries, incentives, and benefits being offered to sales professionals at independent corrugator plants and sheet plants in the United States.
With detailed breakdowns by plant type, plant size, and region, this key benchmarking report offers a comprehensive look at how companies are compensating their sales teams. This report offers the data AICC members need to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. It is a must-have tool for any member looking to review their sales compensation policies and procedures, helping to ensure that their compensation strategies remain competitive and effective.
Beyond compensation, this report also explores crucial operational details that directly impact your sales team’s success. It examines what products and services are typically being sold, how the sales staff typically allocate their time, and how sales objectives are determined. There are also valuable insights into how technology is being leveraged in sales and the growing importance of social media as a sales tool. And while the adoption of AI in sales is still emerging, the report reveals its current usage and potential as a future growth area.
The report was informed by data from 45 independent corrugators and sheet plants, representing 65 locations across the U.S. In aggregate, these plants sold approximately $1 billion of corrugated products in 2024.
As of January 1, 2025, the average base salary for salespersons at U.S. sheet plants was $80,300. Total compensation at U.S. sheet plants, which adds any commission or bonus to the base salary, averaged $165,882. The average base salesperson’s salary at responding U.S. corrugator plants was $109,084, and total compensation averaged $226,165. Compared to AICC’s 2023 report, base salaries have remained relatively consistent at sheet plants, while they have gone up about 21% at corrugator plants. Based on the responses, total compensation has fallen about 11% at sheet plants and by about 6% at corrugator plants.
All responses to this survey were collected and compiled by Industry Insights Inc. of Dublin, Ohio, and have been held in the strictest confidence. None of the data received have been seen by any AICC member or staff member.
AICC appreciates all members who took the time to contribute their data during the survey process. Without your help, AICC would not be able to offer these types of tools. As in years past, AICC has provided the finished report to all participating companies free of charge.
For anyone else looking for a copy of the complete report, the 2025 Independent Packaging Association Sales Compensation Report is available for purchase by visiting www.AICCbox.org/store or by clicking the QR code on this page.
If you have questions, or if you need further assistance, please contact AICC Membership Manager Patrick Moore at 703-535-1394 or pmoore@AICCbox.org.
