DS Smith

International Paper Weighs EMEA Packaging Sale Alongside Spin-Off

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International Paper Weighs EMEA Packaging Sale Alongside Spin-Off

Memphis – October 15, 2026 -- International Paper confirmed it is in discussions with potential bidders for its EMEA Packaging Business while it continues to prepare a spin-off of the unit through a London listing.

The company (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) said it is evaluating unsolicited inbound inquiries for the business. It described the sale process as early-stage and said there is no certainty that any sale will be agreed or completed. The statement followed recent movement in International Paper's share price and press speculation about a sale.

International Paper runs spin-off and sale evaluation in parallel

The company is progressing the spin-off and assessing the potential sale at the same time. It said it cannot provide assurance on the ultimate timing or structure of the separation of the EMEA unit.

International Paper Sets Nov. 3 Capital Markets Day for DS Smith Spin-Off

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International Paper Sets Nov. 3 Capital Markets Day for DS Smith Spin-Off

Memphis – October 14, 2026 -- International Paper's EMEA Packaging Business will hold a Capital Markets Day in London on November 3, 2026, from 13:00 to 17:00 GMT, as the company advances plans to spin the unit off as an independent, publicly traded company named DS Smith plc.

DS Smith leadership to present business model and financial outlook

Tim Nicholls, future Chief Executive Officer of DS Smith plc, and Vincent Bonnot, its future Chief Financial Officer, will host the event with other senior EMEA leaders. They will present the business model, growth strategy and post-separation financial outlook. International Paper says the new company will be an enhanced pure-play packaging leader in the European market.

The event will be webcast, and a recording will be posted on DS Smith's website afterward. In-person attendance is available on request.