UPM has appointed Aki Temmes as group chief financial officer effective 1 January 2027, succeeding Tapio Korpeinen, who retires at the end of 2026. Temmes moves up from leading UPM Fibres, a role he has held since December 2023; Petri Hakanen, currently senior vice president of operations at Fibres Finland, succeeds him as head of the Fibres division. Both will report to chief executive Massimo Reynaudo from the same date.
Why this mattersBoth posts are filled from inside UPM, and the new Fibres head led the Paso de los Toros mill start-up, keeping pulp operations experience in division leadership.
- Aki Temmes becomes group CFO from 1 January 2027, succeeding Tapio Korpeinen, who retires at the end of 2026
- Petri Hakanen becomes executive vice president of UPM Fibres from 1 January 2027, succeeding Temmes
- Temmes has led UPM Fibres since December 2023 and joined UPM in 2003
- Hakanen has been senior vice president of operations at Fibres Finland since October 2024 and joined UPM in 1991
- Hakanen led UPM's Uruguay Development Project from 2018 to 2023, including the Paso de los Toros pulp mill inaugurated in April 2023
- Both executives will be based in Helsinki, reporting to CEO Massimo Reynaudo
- UPM's next quarterly results are due 28 October 2026.
Elopak has moved up the start date of incoming chief executive Hakon Volldal to 2 November 2026, ahead of the timeline set when his appointment was announced on 15 June 2026. Interim CEO Bent K. Axelsen will revert to chief financial officer, and interim CFO Ola Buaroy returns to his role as director of finance and tax.
Why this mattersThe earlier handover ends Elopak's interim arrangement sooner, returning Bent Axelsen to the CFO role and putting strategy under permanent leadership from November.
- Hakon Volldal becomes permanent CEO of Elopak on 2 November 2026, earlier than originally scheduled.
- The original appointment was announced on 15 June 2026.
- The board confirmed the accelerated timeline via a stock exchange disclosure on 21 October 2026.
- Interim CEO Bent K. Axelsen returns to his role as chief financial officer.
- Interim CFO Ola Buaroy resumes his position as director of finance and tax.
Heidelberg subsidiary Gallus Group said CEO Dario Urbinati will step down from the role on 1 November 2026 to join the board of Ferd. Rüesch, becoming its president on 1 January 2027. Chief financial officer Michael Bsirske becomes interim CEO, and Uwe Boerner takes over global sales from Thomas Schweizer, who is leaving the company.
Why this mattersHeidelberg's label press unit moves to an interim chief from finance and a new sales head while pushing its Gallus One and Gallus Five digital presses.
- Dario Urbinati steps down as Gallus Group CEO from 1 November 2026, joining the Ferd Rüesch board of directors
- Urbinati becomes president of the Ferd Rüesch board from 1 January 2027
- Gallus CFO Michael Bsirske becomes interim CEO of Gallus Group
- Uwe Boerner is appointed head of global sales, succeeding Thomas Schweizer, who is leaving the company
- Gallus is a label press subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen
Tara Pac has appointed Daniel Skoglösa as chief executive, succeeding Lars Persson who steps down on 31 October 2026 after many years in the role. Skoglösa has been with the company since 2007.
Why this mattersPromoting an insider who has been with the converter since 2007 points to continuity in strategy and customer relationships rather than a change of direction.
- Lars Persson leaves Tara Pac as chief executive on 31 October 2026 after many years in the post.
- Daniel Skoglösa becomes the new chief executive.
- Skoglösa has worked at Tara Pac since 2007.
Glass packaging maker Verallia reported revenue of EUR 829m (USD 923m) in the third quarter of 2026, down 2.1% from EUR 846m a year earlier, as reduced shipment volumes in the wine category offset gains in beer. The group reaffirmed 2026 guidance of adjusted EBITDA around EUR 700m and free cash flow of EUR 220m, and named Stefan Borgas to succeed Michel Giannuzzi as board chairman from the April 2027 AGM.
Why this mattersWine weakness in France and Iberia drove Verallia's volume decline as pricing effects faded, leaving cost savings to hold margins in container glass.
- Q3 2026 revenue was EUR 829m (USD 923m), down 2.1% from EUR 846m in Q3 2025
- Nine-month revenue reached EUR 2.5bn, down 1.6% year on year
- Adjusted EBITDA was EUR 172m in Q3, a margin of 20.8% versus 20.7% in the first half
- Net financial debt fell to EUR 1.7bn at end-September 2026 from EUR 1.9bn a year earlier
- Cost-reduction programme (PAP) saved EUR 37m through September, a 2.2% reduction in net cash production costs
- Stefan Borgas is to become board chairman after the 30 April 2027 AGM, subject to shareholder confirmation, succeeding Michel Giannuzzi
Vidrala has rebranded its UK and Ireland glass container and filling business from Encirc to Vidrala UK & Ireland, announced on 27 October 2026. The unit employs nearly 2,000 people across Derrylin, Elton and Bristol, producing around three billion glass containers and filling up to 500 million litres of beverages a year. Vidrala said the change follows significant recent investment in operations, technology and sustainability at the business.
Why this mattersRetiring the Encirc name ties Vidrala's UK and Ireland glass, filling and logistics business to the group brand at what the company calls a demanding time for glass.
- Rebrand from Encirc to Vidrala UK & Ireland effective 27 October 2026
- Unit employs nearly 2,000 people across Derrylin, Elton and Bristol sites
- Produces around three billion glass containers a year
- Fills up to 500 million litres of beverages annually
- Offer includes access to one of Europe's largest bonded warehouses
Elopak reported third-quarter 2026 group EBITDA of EUR 51.9m, a 16.8% margin and the highest quarterly figure in its history, on revenue of EUR 308.4m, up 6.5% year on year. Americas EBITDA fell 8.2% to EUR 20.1m as board supply disruption linked to the Nippon incident limited volume growth, while EMEA posted adjusted EBITDA of EUR 44.5m, a 20.4% margin, on revenue up 7.5%.
Why this mattersA leading carton maker's results show European carton demand and pricing holding up while a single supplier disruption still constrains its US growth and margins.
- Q3 2026 group EBITDA was EUR 51.9m at a 16.8% margin, the highest quarterly EBITDA in company history
- Q3 group revenue was EUR 308.4m, up 6.5% year on year (6.0% at constant currency)
- Americas revenue rose 5.9% to EUR 97.5m but EBITDA fell 8.2% to EUR 20.1m, margin 20.6% from 23.8%, on board supply disruption linked to the Nippon incident
- Supply disruption cost EUR 2.6m in Q3 not yet covered by insurance; group margin would have been about 17.5% without it
- EMEA revenue was EUR 218.1m, up 7.5%, with adjusted EBITDA of EUR 44.5m, a 20.4% margin
- Adjusted EPS rose 37.8% to EUR 0.09; leverage held at 2.2x
- Washington's Department of Labor & Industries fined Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company more than $77,000 over the April 2026 incident at its paper mill.
- A worker waded into pulp at about 145 degrees Fahrenheit to close a drain valve and nearly fell into a concealed four-foot sinkhole.
- Regulators cited the company for failing to protect workers from extreme-heat and engulfment hazards.
Circular-economy investment firm Una Terra has appointed William Hickey, who led Sealed Air as president and CEO from 2000 to 2012, as Operating Partner. Based in New York, Hickey will advise Una Terra's portfolio companies on manufacturing, commercial expansion and entry into the US market. Financial terms of the appointment were not disclosed.
Why this mattersBrings three decades of large-scale packaging manufacturing and operating experience to circular-economy start-ups seeking US commercial traction.
- William Hickey served as President and CEO of Sealed Air Corporation from 2000 to 2012 and later chaired its board.
- He joins Una Terra, a circular-economy focused investment firm, as Operating Partner.
- He will be based in New York City and support Una Terra's portfolio companies with US market entry.
- His prior career included roles as division general manager, CFO and COO at Sealed Air.
- Financial terms of the operating partner appointment were not disclosed.
Private equity firm Hivest Capital Partners completed its acquisition of Sustana from Blackstone Tactical Opportunities on 19 October 2026; financial terms were not disclosed. Sustana makes specialty recycled fibre and sustainable paper at mills in Lévis, Québec, and De Pere, Wisconsin, supplied by eight recovery facilities. Hivest has named Kevin Richard, previously chief operating officer, as chief executive and plans targeted mill investment and selective add-on acquisitions in North America.
Why this mattersPrivate equity ownership and a stated buy-and-build mandate point to further consolidation in North American recycled fibre and sustainable paper.
- Hivest completed the acquisition on 19 October 2026 from Blackstone Tactical Opportunities, owner since December 2021.
- Financial terms were not disclosed.
- Kevin Richard, previously Sustana's chief operating officer, is appointed chief executive.
- Sustana operates mills in Lévis, Québec, and De Pere, Wisconsin, plus eight recovery facilities in North America.
- Hivest plans an operational programme covering safety, mill reliability, energy, raw material efficiency and procurement, with targeted investment in mills and recovery network.
- Hivest intends selective add-on acquisitions in North America.
- Sustana traces its origins to the Rolland Paper Company, founded in 1882.
O-I Glass has appointed Bruno Jucá as president of its South America division. Jucá, who joined the company as an intern in 2007 and has served as CFO of O-I Brazil and global director of FP&A, is tasked with continuing the regional strategic plan.
Why this mattersAn internal appointment with a finance background keeps O-I's South American strategy under a long-serving executive rather than an outside hire.
- Bruno Jucá becomes president of O-I Glass's South America division
- He has 19 years at O-I, having joined as an intern in 2007
- Previous roles include CFO of O-I Brazil and global director of FP&A
- The appointment continues execution of the O-I Blueprint and 3 Horizons strategy in South America
Holmen reported third-quarter operating profit of USD 55.4m (SEK 549m), down 26% from USD 74.3m (SEK 737m) a year earlier, as a major maintenance shutdown at its Iggesund mill cut earnings by USD 15.1m (SEK 150m). The group also plans to split its Forest business area into two units, placing wood supply for its industrial operations directly under the chief executive. Nine-month operating profit fell to USD 208.7m (SEK 2.07bn) from USD 255.1m (SEK 2.53bn).
Why this mattersA heavy maintenance quarter at Iggesund and still-low construction activity held back Holmen's earnings, with no recovery yet in wood-products demand or prices.
- Q3 operating profit USD 55.4m (SEK 549m), against USD 74.3m (SEK 737m) a year earlier and USD 69.5m (SEK 689m) in Q2
- The Iggesund mill maintenance shutdown reduced Board and Paper earnings by USD 15.1m (SEK 150m)
- Board and Paper operating profit was USD 12.9m (SEK 128m); deliveries fell to 1,026,000 tonnes from 1,061,000 tonnes
- Forest operating profit was USD 44.5m (SEK 441m); January-September harvest of 1,766,000 cubic metres was about 15% below the long-term plan
- Nine-month operating profit USD 208.7m (SEK 2.07bn), down from USD 255.1m (SEK 2.53bn); net financial debt USD 585.9m (SEK 5,810m), 11% of equity
- Holmen plans to split its Forest business area into two, with industrial wood supply reporting directly to CEO Henrik Sjölund
- Soren Petersson will lead the new forest-ownership unit and Fredrik Holgersson the wood-supply unit, with the split complete by Q3 2027 and no redundancies planned
- Wood Products nine-month operating loss widened to USD 17m (SEK 170m) from USD 7m (SEK 70m) a year earlier, though the Q3 loss narrowed to USD 2.3m (SEK 23m) from USD 5.5m (SEK 55m) in Q2
- Holmen operates five sawmills with combined annual capacity of 1.5 million cubic metres
The Confederation of European Paper Industries has named Francesca Stevens as its new director general, succeeding Jori Ringman, who had held the post since 2019. Stevens moves from Europen, the European packaging and environment organisation, where she was secretary general since 2020, and was nominated by CEPI's board in September 2026. She will lead CEPI's 24-person secretariat on decarbonisation, energy costs and EU regulatory files affecting the European pulp and paper sector.
Why this mattersEuropean pulp and paper producers get a lobby chief from the cross-material packaging side, with Europen and aluminium experience, as energy and decarbonisation files intensify.
- Francesca Stevens appointed CEPI director general, succeeding Jori Ringman, who had been in post since 2019.
- Nomination made by CEPI's board in September 2026.
- Stevens was secretary general of Europen, the European packaging and environment organisation, since 2020.
- She previously held management roles at aluminium groups Arconic and Alcoa.
- She has 25 years of experience representing industry interests to EU institutions.
- She leads a CEPI secretariat of 24 people, working with a board of national association representatives and pulp and paper company executives.
Aptar has appointed Virginie Maes as President of Aptar Pharma, effective 1 January 2027. Maes joins from Amcor, where she led the Flexibles Pharma and Medical packaging business across North America, Latin America, EMEA and Asia.
Why this mattersAptar Pharma will be led by an executive recruited from Amcor's pharma and medical flexibles business, bringing in leadership from a rival healthcare packaging supplier.
- Virginie Maes becomes President of Aptar Pharma effective 1 January 2027
- She joins from Amcor, where she led global Flexibles Pharma and Medical packaging
- Earlier career includes McKinsey & Company, Terra Firma Capital Partners and Morgan Stanley
- Appointment announced by Aptar CEO Gael Touya on 22 October 2026
Crown Holdings has elected Wayne T. Smith to its board of directors, effective 21 October 2026, expanding the board to eleven members. Smith was chairman and chief executive of BASF Corporation, the North American arm of BASF SE, from 2015 to 2021, and currently chairs Air Products and Chemicals and sits on the board of ONEOK.
Why this mattersCrown adds a former chemicals-industry chief executive to an enlarged eleven-member board, bringing large-company operating experience to its governance.
- Wayne T. Smith elected to Crown Holdings' board effective 21 October 2026
- The board now has eleven members
- Smith was chairman and CEO of BASF Corporation from 2015 to 2021, a business with approximately USD 20bn in annual revenue
- He currently chairs the board of Air Products and Chemicals, a company with approximately USD 12bn in annual revenue
- He also serves as a director of ONEOK, a company with approximately USD 33bn in annual revenue
Ball Corporation has appointed Carey Causey as president of Beverage Packaging North and Central America, effective immediately, succeeding Kathleen Pitre. Scott Vail becomes president of Beverage Packaging EMEA, succeeding Mandy Glew, who retires in January 2027.
Why this mattersBoth regional can businesses go to internal executives with prior EMEA and supply-chain roles, pointing to continuity rather than strategic change in Ball's beverage operations.
- Carey Causey named SVP and president of Beverage Packaging North and Central America, effective immediately, succeeding Kathleen Pitre.
- Scott Vail named SVP and president of Beverage Packaging EMEA, succeeding Mandy Glew who retires in January 2027.
- Causey was Ball's chief growth officer since 2024 and previously led Beverage Packaging EMEA from 2021 to 2024.
- Vail has been Ball's chief supply chain and operations officer since 2025, joining Ball in 2021 from Metal Container Corporation and AB InBev.
- Ball Corporation reported 2025 net sales of USD 13.16bn and employs about 16,000 people across more than 65 plants worldwide.
MotionTech, a European packaging automation company, has launched a US operation and appointed Kristian Hulgard as executive sales director to lead sales from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The company said it has completed more than 30 installations for US customers and plans to expand its commercial and service presence across North America.
Why this mattersA direct US sales and service presence lets a European end-of-line and conveying specialist compete more closely with domestic automation suppliers for American packaging lines.
- MotionTech has appointed Kristian Hulgard as executive sales director for the United States.
- Hulgard will lead US operations from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
- MotionTech focuses on end-of-line packaging, storage systems and conveying solutions.
- The company has completed more than 30 installations for US customers.
- MotionTech plans to expand its commercial and service presence across North America.
MPI Label Systems has appointed Doug Lingo as chief executive, succeeding Randy Kocher, who has retired after many years leading the company. Lingo has spent more than 38 years at MPI, starting in shipping, and was most recently president of its legacy business unit.
Why this mattersAn internal successor with a manufacturing background points to continuity in operations and strategy at the label converter.
- Doug Lingo succeeds Randy Kocher as CEO of MPI Label Systems
- Lingo has spent more than 38 years at MPI, starting in shipping
- He was most recently president of MPI's legacy business unit
- Kocher has retired after many years leading the company
PM Studio Group has acquired TNT Group, a specialist in high-end primary and secondary packaging for the beauty and wine and spirits sectors, creating a group with roughly EUR 130m (USD 145m) of combined turnover and about 150 staff internationally. TNT Group founders Thomas Diezinger and Toby Cattermole have reinvested part of their disposal proceeds, and Damon Kennish becomes chief executive of TNT Group. No transaction value was disclosed; the next step is operational consolidation of the two businesses.
Why this mattersThe deal creates a vertically integrated premium packaging player spanning design, metal engineering and secondary packaging, raising competitive pressure on rivals serving luxury beauty and spirits brands.
- Combined group turnover is approximately EUR 130m (USD 145m).
- PM Studio Group alone had turnover of more than EUR 70m (USD 78m) and over 90 employees before the deal.
- The enlarged group employs about 150 people internationally.
- TNT Group founders Thomas Diezinger and Toby Cattermole reinvested part of their sale proceeds in the group.
- Damon Kennish is appointed chief executive of TNT Group.
- TNT Group operates a fabless model with metal engineering expertise in recycled zamak, aluminium, brass and stainless steel, plus offices in Hong Kong, Paris and New York.
Middle East Paper Co's board has ended the contract of chief executive Faisal Alawi Haddawi by mutual agreement, effective 31 December 2026. Marwan Diab, formerly of Arabian Packaging, Obegi Chemicals Group and INDEVCO Group, takes over as CEO from 1 January 2027.
Why this mattersA change of chief executive places the Saudi-listed producer's strategy and investment plans in new hands from 1 January 2027.
- Board resolution of 9 October 2026 ended Faisal Alawi Haddawi's contract as CEO by mutual agreement
- Haddawi's last working day is 31 December 2026
- Marwan Diab becomes CEO effective 1 January 2027
- Diab has 25 years' experience including senior roles at Arabian Packaging (Al Ghurair Group), Obegi Chemicals Group and INDEVCO Group
- Diab holds an MBA from Concordia University and a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the American University of Beirut
- MEPCO says the appointment supports its strategy to improve operational efficiency and strengthen its regional and international market position.
Abralatas, the trade body for Brazil's aluminium can industry, has appointed Thais Fagury as its new chief executive. Fagury brings nearly two decades in metal packaging and recycling policy, having previously led the Brazilian Steel Packaging Association and can-recycling group Prolata Reciclagem.
Why this mattersA new head of Brazil's aluminium-can lobby signals continued industry focus on reverse logistics and recycling policy as competitiveness debates intensify.
- Thais Fagury becomes CEO of Abralatas, the Brazilian Aluminum Can Association
- Fagury was president of the Brazilian Steel Packaging Association (Abeaço) from 2007 to 2026
- She led Prolata Reciclagem, a can-recycling body, from 2012 to 2026
- She also sits on the Fiscal Council of the Brazilian Packaging Association (ABRE)
- Her stated priorities include circularity, decarbonisation, reverse logistics and industrial competitiveness
Orora reported a net loss of USD 430.6m (AUD 616.6m) for the 2026 financial year, driven by a USD 503.1m (AUD 720.5m) impairment on its glass business. Shareholder Sandon Capital, which holds less than 1% of the company, says it will vote against the remuneration report and bonuses for chief executive Brian Lowe at the annual general meeting on 14 October. Its objections also cover the strategy behind Orora's acquisition of French glassmaker Saverglass, after weak European glass volumes and destocking weighed on the result while the can business held up better.
Why this mattersA USD 503.1m (AUD 720.5m) glass impairment and an investor vote against pay place Orora's Saverglass-led strategy and glass cost base under shareholder scrutiny.
- FY2026 net loss of USD 430.6m (AUD 616.6m), driven mainly by a USD 503.1m (AUD 720.5m) impairment on the glass business
- Revenue from continuing operations rose 6.5% to USD 1.5544bn (AUD 2.2259bn)
- Net profit before significant items fell 5.9% to USD 99.3m (AUD 142.2m)
- Total dividend cut to USD 6.3 cents (AUD 9.0 cents) per share from USD 7.0 cents (AUD 10.0 cents)
- Sandon Capital, holding under 1% of Orora, will vote against the remuneration report and CEO Brian Lowe's bonuses at the AGM on 14 October 2026
- European glass demand was hit by weak volumes and destocking, while the can business was more stable
Fedrigoni's chief executive and chairman Marco Nespolo will step down from both roles on 6 October 2026, after almost eight years leading the specialty paper and labels group. Rolf Stangl, former SIG Group chief executive and most recently a senior advisor to Apollo Global Management, becomes executive chairman, supported by the CFO and the chief executives of Fedrigoni's three operating companies. Nespolo retains his shareholding and a board seat.
Why this mattersFedrigoni moves from an eight-year, acquisition-led chief executive to an executive chairman with two decades in packaging, with the CFO and three operating-company heads in support.
- Marco Nespolo leaves as Fedrigoni CEO and chairman on 6 October 2026 after almost eight years in the role.
- Rolf Stangl, former SIG Group CEO and most recently a senior advisor to Apollo Global Management, becomes executive chairman.
- Stangl will be supported by Fedrigoni's CFO and the CEOs of its three operating companies.
- Nespolo keeps his shareholding in Fedrigoni and a seat on the board.
- Stangl led SIG Group from 2008 through its stock market listing and is non-executive chairman of NASDAQ-listed Reynolds Consumer Products.
PXP Group, formerly Woodberry Packaging, has launched as a single group combining Colorman, Reelvision, Medica Packaging and F.G. Curtis, four print and carton specialists serving pharmaceutical, healthcare and cosmetics customers. The group employs 650 staff and reports turnover above EUR 120m (USD 134m), and was presented on 6 October 2026 at the CPHI pharmaceutical event in Milan. It states a goal of becoming a significant player in print and packaging in the UK, Ireland and Europe, with growth focused on pharmaceutical, personal care and beauty.
Why this mattersCreates a combined pharma and cosmetics carton and leaflet supplier able to offer full-cycle print and packaging, intensifying competition for specialist healthcare packaging contracts.
- PXP Group, formerly Woodberry Packaging, launched on 6 October 2026 at CPHI in Milan
- Combined headcount is 650 staff, with turnover above EUR 120m (USD 134m)
- Colorman, an Irish print and packaging provider, was the first company acquired, in 2021
- Reelvision, of Lancashire, was acquired in 2024 for its flexographic carton printing capability
- Medica Packaging (Cheshire) and F.G. Curtis (Surrey) were both acquired in July 2026
- The group focuses on pharmaceutical, healthcare and personal care cartons and leaflets
- PXP is an acronym for Print, Expertise, Packaging
Loparex has promoted Anthony Woods to Chief Commercial Officer, giving him oversight of the release liner maker's global commercial organisation. Woods joined Loparex in 2020 and most recently served as Head of Market and Technology, having previously spent 15 years at ICI and AkzoNobel.
Why this mattersCommercial responsibility across Loparex's global release liner business passes to its former head of market and technology, concentrating account and product strategy under one role.
- Loparex announced the appointment of Anthony Woods as Chief Commercial Officer on 5 October 2026
- Woods will oversee Loparex's global commercial organisation
- He joined Loparex in 2020 as Market Director of the Graphic and Label business
- He most recently held the role of Head of Market and Technology at Loparex
- He previously spent 15 years at ICI and AkzoNobel, including six years in Industrial Wood Finishes and Adhesives leadership
- He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Cambridge
Gallus Group, the label-printing technology subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, has changed its top leadership. Chief executive Dario Urbanati steps down on 1 November 2026 to become president of the board of Gallus Ferd. Rueesch AG from 1 January 2027, with chief financial officer Michael Bsirske taking over as interim CEO. Uwe Boerner becomes head of global sales effective 1 October 2026, succeeding Thomas Schweizer, who leaves the company.
Why this mattersLabel converters buying Gallus presses face an interim chief executive from 1 November and a new global sales head from 1 October.
- Dario Urbanati steps down as Gallus CEO on 1 November 2026
- Urbanati becomes president of the board of Gallus Ferd. Rueesch AG from 1 January 2027
- CFO Michael Bsirske becomes interim CEO of Gallus
- Uwe Boerner appointed head of global sales effective 1 October 2026, succeeding Thomas Schweizer
- Gallus is a label-printing technology subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
Specialty glass maker Schott has appointed Stefan Brandl, former chief executive of automotive supplier Dräxlmaier Group, as its new chief executive effective 1 November 2026. He succeeds Dr Torsten Derr, who steps down on 31 October 2026 for family reasons after the Supervisory Board approved early termination of his term.
Why this mattersSchott changes chief executive at four weeks' notice; the incoming CEO's long supervisory board tenure points to continuity rather than a reset for its 18,000 staff.
- Stefan Brandl becomes Schott CEO effective 1 November 2026.
- Dr Torsten Derr steps down as CEO on 31 October 2026, citing family reasons.
- Brandl was Vice Chairman and CEO of Dräxlmaier Group since 2021.
- Brandl was CEO of ebm-papst from 2017 to 2021.
- Brandl has served on Schott's Supervisory Board for many years.
- Schott employs nearly 18,000 people.
Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing has decided to cancel the listing of Greatview Aseptic Packaging, in a decision issued on 2 October 2026 and disclosed by parent Xinjufeng on 8 October, after the shares passed the exchange's 18-month suspension limit on 18 August 2026. Trading has been halted since 19 February 2025, following a dispute over an overseas business restructuring that left auditors without complete financial records and a breach of the minimum public float once Xinjufeng reached 97.76%. Absent a review request within seven business days, the last trading day is 16 October 2026 and the listing ends on 20 October 2026.
Why this mattersDelisting removes the Hong Kong equity platform of a leading aseptic carton supplier, closing a cross-border funding and disclosure channel for its Chinese owner Xinjufeng.
- HKEX's listing committee decided to cancel Greatview's listing; the decision was issued on 2 October 2026 and disclosed by Xinjufeng on 8 October 2026
- Shares have been suspended since 19 February 2025 and the 18-month suspension limit expired on 18 August 2026
- Last trading day is 16 October 2026 absent a review request; the listing is cancelled from 9am on 20 October 2026
- Xinjufeng holds 97.76% after buying 28.22% in 2023 and completing in March 2025 a general offer at USD 0.34 (HKD 2.65) per share, at a combined cost of USD 501m (CNY 3.355bn)
- The suspension followed an overseas restructuring that left incoming management without complete financial records, limiting the audit scope, alongside the public float breach
- Greatview's revenue fell from USD 588m (CNY 3.937bn) in 2022 to USD 277m (CNY 1.857bn) in 2025
- New Huijin plans to fully integrate Greatview as a wholly owned subsidiary once delisting proceeds, combining equipment and packaging-material operations for global rollout.
- The combined New Huijin-Greatview group's share of China's aseptic packaging market has risen above 20%, second only to Tetra Pak, with annual capacity above 50 billion packs.
- Domestic suppliers' share of leading Chinese dairy companies' aseptic packaging procurement rose from under 30% in 2024 to near 42% in H1 2026.
- Greatview filed a review application with HKEX's Listing Review Committee on 13 October 2026
- The board said the outcome of the review remains uncertain and the suspension continues until further notice
- Greatview engaged BT Corporate Governance Limited for a further follow-up internal control review, with a report dated 11 September 2026
- Management accepted all deficiencies and improvement recommendations identified in the review
- Greatview filed a review application with HKEX's Listing Committee on 13 October 2026 contesting the cancellation of its listing.
- A 2024 restructuring by Greatview's then management cut its direct stake in international unit Greatview International from 100% to 49%, ceding control to an outside fund.
- An independent investigation found former executives diverted a RMB 100m shareholder loan at 1% interest, moved about 70 staff and core IT systems, and imposed five-year non-compete clauses on roughly 1,600 customers now tied to renamed entity Wintipak AG.
- New Lead Holdings' auditor issued a qualified opinion on its 2025 accounts after being unable to obtain Greatview International's financial records.
Orora has appointed Susannah Jobling Hodgens as Chief Legal Officer and Company Secretary, joining the leadership team from October 2026. She is promoted internally after 13 years at the company, most recently as General Counsel and alternate Company Secretary. The outgoing company secretary remains in post until 31 December 2026 to support the transition.
Why this mattersAn internal promotion keeps Orora's legal and company secretarial function in continuity through the October to December handover.
- Susannah Jobling Hodgens becomes Chief Legal Officer and Company Secretary from October 2026
- She has spent 13 years at Orora in senior legal and governance roles, most recently as General Counsel and alternate Company Secretary
- The outgoing company secretary remains in post until 31 December 2026 to support the transition
- The outgoing company secretary is named as Ann Stubbings, Chief Safety, Sustainability and Governance Officer
- Stubbings has served Orora for more than 13 years since its listing
Heidelberger Druckmaschinen has appointed Christoph Burkhard as Chief Financial Officer, effective 1 October 2026, succeeding Volker Herdin who retires on 30 September 2026. Burkhard was previously CFO of construction equipment maker Wacker Neuson and, before that, of wind turbine manufacturer Nordex.
Why this mattersHeidelberg's incoming CFO takes responsibility for M&A and investor relations, arriving from finance roles at two listed engineering manufacturers.
- Christoph Burkhard becomes CFO of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG effective 1 October 2026
- Volker Herdin retires as CFO on 30 September 2026 after overseeing the handover
- Burkhard was CFO of Wacker Neuson until 31 August 2026
- He previously served as CFO of Nordex in Hamburg
- As CFO he will oversee Finance, Controlling, Investor Relations, M&A, Accounting, Legal, Tax and Information Security
- Burkhard, born 1964, holds a Diplom-Kaufmann from Tübingen and an MSc from the London School of Economics
Walki Group has named Timo Saahko Executive Vice President of Packaging Materials, effective 1 October 2026. He will also join the Group Executive Team, taking responsibility for developing the company's packaging materials business. Saahko joins from Mölnlycke Health Care.
Why this mattersA new operating head signals Walki's intent to prioritise growth of its packaging materials division within a broader industrial group.
- Timo Saahko becomes Executive Vice President of Packaging Materials at Walki Group.
- Appointment takes effect 1 October 2026.
- Saahko will also join the Group Executive Team.
- He previously worked at Mölnlycke Health Care.
Sappi has appointed Kirk Ross as president and chief executive of Sappi North America from 1 January 2027, succeeding Mike Haws, who retires in February 2027 after seven years in the role. Matt Archambeau becomes vice-president of manufacturing effective 1 October 2026, reporting to Ross.
Why this mattersThe succession keeps continuity at the unit leading Sappi's packaging-paper build-out in North America, including the Somerset mill conversion.
- Kirk Ross becomes president and CEO of Sappi North America effective 1 January 2027
- Mike Haws retires in February 2027 after 14 years at Sappi, including seven as North America CEO
- Matt Archambeau becomes vice-president of manufacturing effective 1 October 2026, reporting to Ross
- Ross previously led the Elevate project converting and expanding Somerset mill's PM2 machine for packaging products
- Haws oversaw integration of the Matane pulp mill and a return to record profitability in 2021-2022
- Kirk Ross is 51 years old
- Sappi shares are down 46 percent year to date, with a market capitalisation of about USD 471m (EUR 420m)
Matic Plast S.r.l. has bought back the 24.5% minority stake in its operating subsidiary Matic Plast Milano previously held by founder Giovanni Agostino Patti, closing the deal at the end of September 2026. The subsidiary, which makes premium packaging for perfumery and cosmetics brands including Estee Lauder and Interparfums, reported revenue of about EUR 71m and EBITDA of about EUR 5.6m in its latest year. The move brings full governance of the operating company back under the holding group.
Why this mattersTaking full control of a EUR 71m-revenue cosmetics packaging maker removes the founder's minority interest and simplifies governance at a supplier to Estee Lauder and Interparfums.
- Matic Plast S.r.l. acquired the 24.5% stake in subsidiary Matic Plast Milano held by founder Giovanni Agostino Patti
- The transaction was completed at the end of September 2026
- Matic Plast Milano, based in Carugate near Milan, reported revenue of about EUR 71m in its latest financial year
- The subsidiary's EBITDA was about EUR 5.6m in the same period
- Customers named include Estee Lauder and Interparfums
- The company operates production plants in Italy and the United States
Heidelberger Druckmaschinen has agreed a partnership with German logistics group pfenning to combine printing, packaging and data-driven logistics into one offering for pharmaceutical packaging production. The tie-up extends Heidelberg's system-integrator strategy, unveiled at interpack 2026, into serialisation, track-and-trace and GDP/GMP-compliant logistics. No financial terms were disclosed.
Why this mattersMachinery makers are moving beyond press sales into end-to-end packaging and logistics services, reshaping how pharma customers source compliance-driven supply chains.
- Heidelberg and pfenning group announced the partnership on 30 September 2026 at Heidelberg's Wiesloch-Walldorf site.
- The collaboration covers printing, packaging and data-driven logistics for pharmaceutical products.
- It builds on Heidelberg's system-integrator strategy announced at interpack 2026.
- pfenning group operates 110 European locations, 1 million square metres of logistics space and 7,000 employees.
- Heidelberg has previously announced similar partnerships with Pack-Smart and Metsä Board.
- No deal value or investment figure was disclosed.
- Turkish converter Sade Ofset Packaging & Label is using Heidelberg's Prinect Production software to network prepress, press room and production planning.
- Austrian print service provider Klampfer Druck installed a Jetfire 50 digital press to combine digital and offset short-run printing.
- Heidelberger Druckmaschinen shares traded at EUR 1.42 on 5 October 2026, down 30 percent since the start of the year.
- Heidelberg shares traded around EUR 1.39 pre-market on 6 October 2026, down 31 percent year to date
- Heidelberger Druckmaschinen will present technology at the All-in-Print China trade fair in Shanghai, 12-16 October 2026
- Heidelberger Druckmaschinen shares closed at EUR 1.42 on 7 October 2026, down 30 percent year to date
- Heidelberger Druckmaschinen reported first-quarter fiscal 2026/2027 revenue of EUR 404.00 million, down 13.30 percent year on year.
- Adjusted EBITDA margin fell to 0.20 percent from 4.40 percent a year earlier.
Gerresheimer said preparations to close the sale of its Centor closures business are in their final stages, with completion expected in October 2026; Centor and the Primary Packaging Plastics unit together carry an enterprise value of about EUR 1.5bn, and the PPP sale is targeted for the first half of 2027. Closure of the Chicago Heights moulded glass plant was due to be completed by the end of September 2026. Preliminary second-quarter revenue was EUR 578m with adjusted EBITDA of EUR 102m, more than 50% above the first quarter.
Why this mattersThe divestments and plant closure accelerate Gerresheimer's shift to a pure pharma and drug-delivery packaging group as it works to rebuild its balance sheet.
- Preparations for closing the Centor sale are in their final stages, with the transaction expected to close in October 2026.
- Centor and Primary Packaging Plastics have a combined enterprise value of about EUR 1.5bn; the PPP sale is targeted to close in the first half of 2027.
- Closure of the Chicago Heights moulded glass plant was targeted for completion by the end of September 2026.
- Q2 2026 adjusted EBITDA was EUR 102m, up EUR 35m or more than 50% from EUR 67m in Q1 2026.
- Q2 2026 revenue was EUR 578m, against EUR 614m in Q2 2025 and EUR 523m in Q1 2026.
- H1 2026 revenue was EUR 1.10bn and adjusted EBITDA EUR 168m, versus EUR 1.14bn and EUR 224m in H1 2025.
- Gerresheimer reiterated its expectation of a stronger second half of 2026
- Gerresheimer had cut its full-year outlook in June 2026
- Gerresheimer shares rose 8% in early trading after the Q2/H1 results
- Net financial debt stood slightly above EUR 2bn, with disposal proceeds targeted to bring leverage to at or below 3.0x net debt to adjusted EBITDA
- Gerresheimer's transformation programme targets an annualised EBITDA improvement of EUR 50m to 70m through 2027
Silgan Holdings and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Philippe Chevrier agreed on 2 September 2026 to end his employment effective 30 September 2026. The departure of the rigid packaging maker's operations chief comes ahead of its third-quarter results, due 29 October 2026.
Why this mattersLoss of the operating chief ahead of quarterly results raises questions over continuity in running Silgan's three packaging divisions.
- Philippe Chevrier's role as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer ends 30 September 2026
- Mutual separation agreement was reached 2 September 2026
- Silgan reports Q3 2026 results on 29 October 2026 before the US market opens
- Q2 2026 revenue rose 6.80% to USD 1.64bn, beating consensus of USD 1.62bn
- Q2 2026 adjusted EPS was USD 0.98 against USD 0.96 consensus
- Silgan confirmed full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of USD 3.73-3.93
German audit oversight body APAS has opened a professional proceeding against KPMG over the unqualified opinion it gave on Gerresheimer's 2024 accounts, which were subsequently found to breach IFRS, while BaFin examines further possible misstatements, including unrecognised impairments of up to EUR 196.5m in the Advanced Technologies segment. Schuldschein noteholders have separately approved, with 96 per cent support, an extension to 30 September 2026 for delivery of the audited accounts and a temporary suspension of leverage covenants. Shareholder body DSW has commissioned a legal opinion on the potential liability of former CEO Dietmar Siemssen and former CFO Bernd Metzner, and Active Ownership has disclosed a 13.67 per cent voting stake.
Why this mattersCovenant relief runs only to 30 September 2026, while possible impairments of up to EUR 196.5m constrain Gerresheimer's financing and its Advanced Technologies investment plans.
- APAS has opened a professional proceeding against KPMG over its unqualified opinion on Gerresheimer's 2024 accounts, later found to conflict with IFRS.
- BaFin is examining possible unrecognised impairments of up to EUR 196.5m in the Advanced Technologies segment.
- BaFin is also reviewing leasing liabilities possibly misstated by EUR 65.5m and capitalised development costs of EUR 29.4m.
- The bill-and-hold bookings, confirmed by an independent law firm, cover EUR 35m of revenue and EUR 24m of adjusted EBITDA recognised before delivery.
- Schuldschein noteholders approved, with 96 per cent support, an extension to 30 September 2026 for the audited accounts and a temporary suspension of leverage covenants.
- Active Ownership disclosed a 13.67 per cent voting stake and intends to seek supervisory board representation; DSW has commissioned an opinion on the liability of former CEO Dietmar Siemssen and former CFO Bernd Metzner.
- BaFin opened a new audit of Gerresheimer's consolidated interim financial statements covering 1 December 2024 to 31 May 2025.
- BaFin expanded its earlier ad hoc audit of statements as of 30 November 2024, citing further indications of accounting violations.
- The original BaFin inquiry, opened in September, concerns possible premature revenue recognition on customer contracts.
- Markus Sieger was elected Chairman of the Supervisory Board at the organisational meeting following the AGM on 29 September 2026.
- Rainer Beaujean, Markus Sieger and Eva van Pelt were newly elected to the Supervisory Board; Klaus Röhrig, previously court-appointed in 2025, was reelected.
- Discharge of the Supervisory Board and of former Executive Board members Dietmar Siemssen, Lukas Burkhardt and Bernd Metzner was deferred pending the investigations into breaches of duty.
- Current Executive Board members Uwe Röhrhoff, Wolf Lehmann and Achim Schalk were granted discharge for financial year 2025.
Ignacio J. Walker, senior vice president and chief legal officer of Avery Dennison, told the company on 30 September 2026 that he will resign to take up another opportunity. The company did not state a departure date or name a successor.
Why this mattersA core labelling group loses the head of its legal function, with no leaving date or successor stated, across contracts, compliance and deal execution.
- Ignacio J. Walker, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, informed Avery Dennison on 30 September 2026 that he will resign.
- Walker is leaving to pursue another opportunity, according to the company.
- No successor or departure date was stated in the source.
Graphic Packaging Holding Company has appointed Aditya Gandhi as vice-president and chief accounting officer, reporting to interim chief financial officer Charles Lischer. Gandhi joins from AptarGroup, where he held the same title, having previously served as chief accounting officer at Sonoco Products Company.
Why this mattersA permanent chief accounting officer under an interim CFO adds finance capacity at a company whose second-quarter net income fell 77% to USD 24m.
- Aditya Gandhi joins Graphic Packaging as vice-president and chief accounting officer.
- He reports to interim chief financial officer Charles Lischer.
- Gandhi was previously chief accounting officer at AptarGroup and at Sonoco Products Company.
- He spent more than ten years at Deloitte, including senior posts in its National Office and London practices.
- Graphic Packaging reported Q2 2026 net income of USD 24m, down 77% from USD 104m a year earlier.
Amcor's board has elected Tom Long, an independent non-executive director since 2017 and former MillerCoors chief executive, as its next chairman. He succeeds Graeme Liebelt, who steps down at the annual general meeting on 11 November 2026 after almost 13 years in the role. The change comes as Amcor reports strong post-merger earnings growth following its acquisition of Berry Global.
Why this mattersNew board leadership takes over as Amcor delivers sharply higher post-merger earnings from its integration of Berry Global.
- Amcor's board elected Tom Long as chairman on 29 September 2026, succeeding Graeme Liebelt
- Liebelt steps down at the AGM on 11 November 2026 after almost 13 years as chairman
- Long has been an independent non-executive director since 2017, was previously CEO of MillerCoors and currently chairs Wolverine Worldwide's board
- Amcor reported FY2026 revenue of USD 23.51bn, up 57 percent from USD 15.01bn in FY2025, driven by the Berry Global acquisition
- FY2026 adjusted EBITDA rose to USD 3.673bn from USD 2.186bn; net profit was USD 1.106bn versus USD 511m a year earlier
- Fourth-quarter adjusted net income was USD 570m, up 40 percent from USD 408m a year earlier
- Amcor has delivered USD 285m of Berry Global merger synergies in fiscal 2026, ahead of its first-year target
- Amcor targets USD 650m in total synergies from the Berry Global integration over three years
Activist investor Ancora Holdings Group has publicly called on the board of H.B. Fuller, a US specialty adhesives maker, to review strategic alternatives, alleging value-destructive decisions by management. Ancora said it had privately offered to acquire H.B. Fuller's Building Adhesive Solutions segment for cash worth over 40% of the company's current equity value, an offer that was rejected, and it flagged a debt-increasing overseas acquisition and the company's classified board structure.
Why this mattersA forced portfolio review or divestment at a major adhesives supplier could reshape sourcing dynamics and consolidation across the materials tier that packaging converters depend on.
- Ancora Holdings Group sent a public letter dated 24 September 2026 to H.B. Fuller's board demanding a strategic review
- Ancora said it had offered to buy H.B. Fuller's Building Adhesive Solutions segment for cash worth more than 40% of the company's current equity value, an offer it said was rejected
- Ancora cited a roughly 40% stock performance gap between Ashland and H.B. Fuller since 15 May 2026, sourced from FactSet
- Ancora criticised H.B. Fuller's classified board and an overseas acquisition it said increased debt load
- Ancora said it expects H.B. Fuller may offer limited concessions such as non-renomination of long-tenured directors in 2027 or phased board declassification
- Ancora reached a cooperation agreement with Ashland within about one month of engagement, adding two directors to that board
Perfume and cosmetics packaging supplier Coverpla is preparing a handover from chairman Bruno Diepois to managing director Sebastien Saussereau, planned since Geneo Capital Entrepreneur became majority shareholder in September 2024. The Nice-based company, with EUR 23m of revenue, expects 2026 to be flat for a second consecutive year and is examining external growth options.
Why this mattersA EUR 23m perfume packaging supplier with flat revenue is looking to external growth, one route to scale in a fragmented French cosmetics packaging supply base.
- Coverpla generates EUR 23m in annual revenue and employs 45 people at its Nice site, four in the United States and two in Italy.
- Geneo Capital Entrepreneur became majority shareholder in September 2024.
- A handover from chairman Bruno Diepois to managing director Sebastien Saussereau has been planned since that change of ownership.
- US revenue is up more than 30% in 2026 after a weak 2025.
- 2026 revenue is expected to be flat, matching stagnation in 2025.
- Management says it is examining external growth options.
Essity said chief financial officer Fredrik Rystedt intends to retire during 2027 after more than nine years in the role. The hygiene and paper group will begin a search for his successor immediately, and Rystedt will remain in post until a successor is appointed and handover is complete.
Why this mattersLosing a CFO of more than nine years' standing, with an open-ended handover, puts Essity's finance leadership in transition through 2027.
- Fredrik Rystedt has served as CFO and Executive Vice President of Essity for more than nine years.
- He has told the company of his intention to retire during 2027.
- The search for a successor begins immediately.
- Rystedt stays in post until a successor is appointed and handover is completed.
- Essity disclosed the move under EU Market Abuse Regulation rules at 07:55 CET on 21 September 2026.
Greatview Aseptic Packaging said CEO Yuan Xunjun stepped down effective 21 September 2026, while remaining chairman and executive director. Wang Dawei, previously executive president and a former senior executive at SIG Combibloc and Sidel Group, becomes CEO from the same date.
Why this mattersThe change hands day-to-day execution at a leading Asian aseptic carton maker to an executive with direct SIG Combibloc and Sidel experience, as competition in aseptic cartons intensifies.
- Yuan Xunjun stepped down as CEO of Greatview Aseptic Packaging effective 21 September 2026
- Yuan retains his roles as chairman and executive director
- Wang Dawei, previously executive president, is appointed CEO from the same date
- Wang has 18 years in packaging, including senior roles at SIG Combibloc and Sidel Group
- The board stated Yuan has no disagreements with directors requiring shareholder attention
Encirc, the glass container and bottling group owned by Vidrala, has appointed Jonathan Culley as Commercial Director. Culley, who previously worked at Rankin Brothers, Verallia and Bacardi, joins as Rob Turvey retires at the end of 2026 after 14 years as Sales and Marketing Director.
Why this mattersTurvey's retirement after 14 years hands commercial terms on roughly 3 billion Encirc containers a year to an executive drawn from Verallia and Bacardi.
- Jonathan Culley joins Encirc as Commercial Director with over 20 years in drinks, packaging and FMCG, including roles at Rankin Brothers, Verallia and Bacardi.
- Rob Turvey retires at the end of 2026 after 14 years as Encirc's Sales and Marketing Director.
- Encirc employs almost 2,000 staff across three sites: Derrylin (Co Fermanagh), Elton (Cheshire) and Bristol.
- Encirc produces around 3 billion glass bottles and containers annually and can fill up to 500 million litres of bulk shipped beverages per year.
- Encirc is part of the Vidrala Group.
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority has approved a supplement to the demerger and listing prospectus for WISA Group Plc, the entity UPM-Kymmene is spinning off onto Nasdaq Helsinki. The supplement confirms Lasse von Hertzen, previously interim CFO, as permanent Chief Financial Officer of WISA. The demerger is planned to complete on 31 October 2026, with WISA shares expected to start trading on 2 November 2026.
Why this mattersThe spin-off creates a separately listed entity carved out of UPM, letting investors value the unit independently of the parent group.
- Finnish FSA approved the prospectus supplement on 18 September 2026
- Demerger of WISA from UPM-Kymmene planned to complete 31 October 2026
- WISA shares expected to begin trading on Nasdaq Helsinki on 2 November 2026 or shortly after
- Lasse von Hertzen appointed permanent CFO of WISA Group Plc, having served as interim CFO
- WISA's Group Leadership Team now comprises seven senior executives including CEO Tuija Suur-Hamari
- Appointees remain in current UPM roles until the demerger takes effect
- fact one
Finnish nonwovens manufacturer Suominen has appointed Eevaleena Mäki-Uuro as Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer and promoted Anni Luoma from General Counsel to Chief Legal Officer, both effective 17 September 2026. Both report to President and CEO Charles Héaulmé. The moves come as incumbent Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer Marika Väkiparta leaves the company, remaining until end October 2026 during the transition.
Why this mattersTwo leadership-team appointments and the exit of the strategy chief come as Suominen reworks its organisation and operating model to lift performance.
- Eevaleena Mäki-Uuro appointed Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer effective 17 September 2026, moving from SVP Commercial Excellence and Strategic Projects
- Anni Luoma promoted from General Counsel to Chief Legal Officer effective 17 September 2026
- Both executives report to President and CEO Charles Héaulmé and join the Suominen Leadership Team
- Outgoing Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer Marika Väkiparta is leaving the company, staying until end October 2026
- Suominen reported EUR 412.4m in 2025 net sales and employs nearly 700 people across Europe and the Americas
- Suominen shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki
Essity is advancing a sale-or-spin-off process for its Consumer Tissue division, home to the Lotus, Tempo and Cushelle brands, with Morgan Stanley advising on options including an external sale or a separate Stockholm listing. External valuations diverge, with one report putting the unit at EUR 2.5bn-3bn and a separate Bloomberg report citing sources who value the business at around SEK 34bn, with a sale process potentially launching as early as October 2026. Activist investor Cevian Capital has built a stake and is pressing Essity to focus on its core hygiene and health businesses; the strategic review, launched in May 2026, is expected to conclude in the first half of 2027.
Why this mattersA multibillion-value tissue carve-out would reshape Essity into a pure hygiene and health group and could create a new standalone European tissue player.
- Morgan Stanley is advising Essity on a dual-track separation of Consumer Tissue, either a sale to an external buyer or a spin-off listed in Stockholm, according to Bloomberg
- Bloomberg sources say the process could start as early as October 2026 and value the toilet paper business at about SEK 34bn
- One report values the division, home to Lotus, Tempo and Cushelle, at EUR 2.5bn-3bn, below the company's own valuation projections
- The strategic review was announced in May 2026 and is expected to conclude in the first half of 2027
- Activist investor Cevian Capital has increased its stake and is pressing for a focus on core high-margin hygiene and health businesses
- Essity confirmed its nomination committee composition on 23 September 2026, with Cevian Capital's Niko Pakalen replacing the Swedbank Robur representative
Loop Industries' board has formed a Strategic Alternatives Committee to evaluate options including a sale, merger, going-private transaction or licensing deals. The move follows the separation of the Chairman and CEO roles, with the committee's first task to help secure funding for Loop's planned India recycled-PET joint venture. No timetable has been set.
Why this mattersA formal sale-or-merger review at a listed recycled-PET technology developer signals funding pressure on next-generation chemical recycling capacity ahead of stricter recycled-content rules.
- Loop Industries' board formed a Strategic Alternatives Committee on 17 September 2026
- The committee follows Jeff Geygan's appointment as Chairman, separating the Chairman and CEO roles previously held together
- Options under review include a sale, merger, going-private transaction, licensing deals, regional joint ventures and corporate restructuring
- The committee's immediate priority is securing Loop's required capital contribution and project-level financing for its planned India joint venture
- Founder and CEO Daniel Solomita remains in charge of operations, including the India joint venture and commercialisation
- No timetable has been set and the company has not decided on any specific alternative
- Lenders have proposed a 70/30 debt-to-equity split for the Infinite Loop India project financing, now in technical due diligence, with Loop and Ester Industries each covering 15% of the equity at about SOFR plus 3%
- Loop applied for a USD 28m clean-technology subsidy from the Indian state of Gujarat, payable over eight years if approved
- Monthly cash overhead was cut to USD 500,000, against total liquidity of USD 3.6m as of 31 May 2026
- Loop signed a letter of intent for 15,000 tonnes of recycled PET with a separate textile apparel brand, which has indicated total annual demand appetite of up to 90,000 tonnes
- Daniel Solomita stepped down as board chairman one week before the 17 September 2026 announcement, remaining a board member
- Jeff Geygan, the new chairman, previously chaired Climb Global Solutions and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
- The ELITe joint venture plant in Gujarat, India is valued at USD 170m with 70,000 metric tons/year capacity
Stora Enso has appointed Chief Financial Officer Niclas Rosenlew as Deputy CEO with immediate effect from 17 September 2026, while retaining his CFO role. He will deputise for President and CEO Hans Sohlström, who continues in post. Rosenlew joined the group as CFO in January 2025.
Why this mattersPairing the CFO and deputy CEO roles gives Stora Enso a second senior voice with customers and investors while leaving Sohlstrom in charge of strategy execution.
- Niclas Rosenlew becomes Deputy CEO with immediate effect from 17 September 2026
- Rosenlew retains his role as CFO and Group Leadership Team member
- Rosenlew will deputise for President and CEO Hans Sohlström, who remains in post
- Rosenlew joined Stora Enso as CFO in January 2025
- Stora Enso employs approximately 19,000 people and reported EUR 9.3 billion sales in 2025
- A further report cites the appointment as effective 22 September 2026
Kleannara has scheduled an extraordinary general meeting for 4 November 2026 in Seoul at which shareholders will vote on appointing Choi Byung Min, currently an advisor to the company and its former honorary chairman, as an inside director. The move is presented by the board as reinforcing leadership continuity at the South Korean hygiene and household paper products maker.
Why this mattersReturning a former honorary chairman to the board points to continuity rather than change in strategy at the South Korean household paper producer.
- Kleannara's board has called an extraordinary general meeting for 4 November 2026 in Seoul.
- Shareholders will vote on appointing Choi Byung Min as an inside director.
- Choi Byung Min currently serves as an advisor and formerly held the role of honorary chairman.
- Kleannara is listed under ticker KR:004540 and makes tissues, diapers and other household paper products for the South Korean market.
