27 January 2025
EC Says International Paper Must Divest Certain Box Plants in Europe as Next Step in Acquisition of DS Smith
International Paper and DS Smith have agreed to an all-share combination, with DS Smith shareholders set to receive new International Paper shares upon the Scheme’s approval, expected to take effect on 31 January 2025. The European Commission has conditionally approved the merger, requiring International Paper to divest specific box plants in France, Portugal, and Spain. The merger will create a global leader in sustainable packaging, focusing on growth in North America and EMEA regions. Final steps include court approval and regulatory compliance. International Paper, a global packaging leader with 39,000 employees, is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee.