The year has seen a flurry of news and rumors about major transactions involving International Paper, DS Smith, Berry Global, Sonoco, WestRock, Smurfit Kappa and more.
Acquisitions are an ongoing factor for the packaging industry and 2024 has been especially active so far. Some of packaging’s biggest names have announced multibillion-dollar purchases, while others are divesting key segments to streamline business areas.
Catch up on Packaging Dive’s reporting and analysis about some of the most notable deals and trends. A full list of transactions is also available in our ongoing M&A tracker.
Berry Global had been considering strategic alternatives for the Health, Hygiene & Specialties segment for months. The new company is valued at $3.6 billion. Read the full article ➔
The possibility of a mega-merger comes five months after a similar deal between sector competitors Smurfit Kappa and WestRock. Read the full article ➔
Most of the $4.5 billion in proceeds will be split between debt reduction and returns to shareholders, with the remainder boosting Ball’s balance sheet. Read the full article ➔
The deal bests a preliminary purchase proposal from rival Mondi. It comes one week before a deadline to submit formal offers for acquiring the London-based paper packaging company. Read the full article ➔
Executives acknowledged a potential transaction for the first time this week, but made clear that no formal offer is in place. Analysts speculate that Suzano may specifically be interested in IP’s Global Cellulose Fibers business. Read the full article ➔
Recently released documents reveal when executives expect the deal to close and just how long the transaction has been in the works. Read the full article ➔
Acquiring the European company from investment firm KPS aligns with Sonoco’s strategy to make metal packaging a core business unit. The acquisition will be accompanied by “significant divestitures.” Read the full article ➔
