UPDATED: International Paper Completes Acquisition of DS Smith

Feb. 3, 2025 - International Paper on Jan. 31 completed its acquisition of DS Smith plc. The combined company creates a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions.

The geographical reach of the combination of International Paper and DS Smith:

• 30+ countries
• 200+ Mills and packaging plants in North America
• 230+ Mills and packaging plants in EMEA
• 65,000+ colleagues

Creates a Global Leader in Sustainable Packaging Solutions

• Establishes a differentiated corrugated packaging company with approximately 90% of revenue from sustainable fiber-based packaging.
• Expands IP's footprint and capabilities in the attractive European region.
• Combines DS Smith's extensive European sales of $9.4 billion in FY23 with IP's European sales of $1.5 billion in FY23.
• Enhances IP's business in North America's eastern region with the addition of DS Smith's complementary box network.

Complementary Business Models Increase Vertical Integration to Improve Profitability

• Integration of approximately 500-600k tons of containerboard from DS Smith into the IP mill system will increase the combined integration rate to approximately 90%.
• Optimizes the combined network of mills, box plants, and supply chains.

"With a stronger portfolio of sustainable packaging solutions, the combination of International Paper and DS Smith enhances our offerings, increases innovation and expands our geographic reach," said Andy Silvernail, International Paper Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We will bring together the capabilities and expertise of two experienced teams, with similar cultures to create the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions."

International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. With company headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) headquarters in London, UK, IP employs more than 65,000 team members and serve customers around the world with operations in more than 30 countries.

SOURCE: International Paper