International Paper plans to separate its North American and EMEA operations into two independently listed companies, marking one of the most significant restructurings in the global packaging sector in recent years.
The US-based group said it intends to create two standalone businesses focused on regional specialisation. The separation is expected to be completed within 12 to 15 months, subject to regulatory approvals.
The move follows International Paper’s acquisition of DS Smith in 2025.
Under the plan, the North American business will retain the International Paper name and include its historical US assets. The second entity will focus exclusively on Europe, the Middle East and Africa, built around the current Packaging Solutions EMEA division and the legacy DS Smith operations.
The future European company is expected to be listed on both the London Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange. International Paper plans to retain a significant minority stake in the new entity.
The North American arm will continue under the current leadership team, including Chief Executive Officer Andy Silvernail and Chief Financial Officer Lance Loeffler. The European business will be led by Tim Nicholls, with David Robbie serving as chair.
International Paper said the objective is to allow each company to pursue capital allocation, operational optimisation and sustainability strategies tailored to their respective markets.
The group employs more than 65,000 people globally and is one of the largest suppliers of fibre-based packaging to consumer goods companies and retailers.
Why It Matters
The split reshapes the global fibre packaging landscape.
North America and Europe operate under different cost structures, regulatory frameworks and sustainability requirements. By separating the businesses, each company can respond more directly to regional market conditions.
For European supermarkets and FMCG suppliers, the new EMEA-focused entity will operate independently in a market shaped by extended producer responsibility rules, circular economy targets and stricter packaging compliance.
For North American retailers, International Paper’s retained business will concentrate on domestic capacity, cost efficiency and shareholder returns.
The restructuring also reflects broader consolidation trends across the packaging industry, where scale, sustainability compliance and capital discipline are increasingly central to competitiveness.
With corrugated and fibre-based packaging central to private label and e-commerce supply chains, the move could influence sourcing strategies and long-term supplier relationships across both regions.
The separation is expected to conclude within 12 to 15 months.
Editor’s Note: Based on International Paper’s January 29, 2026 strategic announcement regarding the planned separation of its North American and EMEA businesses.
