International Paper to spin off EMEA packaging unit as DS Smith plc

International Paper will hold a Capital Markets Day on 3 November 2026 to set out how it will separate its EMEA packaging business into an independent company, DS Smith plc, including the new company's business model and outlook. The separation is reported as a response to UK Competition and Markets Authority merger requirements. After it, International Paper will stop giving financial guidance for the former EMEA operations.

Why this mattersRe-creating DS Smith as an independent company would put International Paper's European packaging business under separate management, changing the competitive set for European box customers.

• International Paper will host a Capital Markets Day on 3 November 2026 covering the EMEA separation, scheduled to run four hours.
• The separation is presented as a response to UK Competition and Markets Authority merger regulation.
• The separated unit is to be named DS Smith plc and will operate as an independent entity.
• International Paper will cease providing financial guidance for the former EMEA packaging operations after separation.
• Andy Silvernail, Chairman and CEO of International Paper, is overseeing the reorganisation.

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