International Paper acquires Delmarva Corrugated Packaging for expanded capacity
Key takeaways
- International Paper expands US packaging capacity with Delmarva Corrugated acquisition.
- Dover facility adds strategic location, strong customer base, and operational efficiency.
- Acquisition aligns with IP’s growth strategy and long-term value creation.
International Paper (IP) has acquired Delmarva Corrugated Packaging (DCP) in Delaware, US, to strengthen IP’s market presence and increase capacity.
Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president for Packaging Solutions North America at IP, says: “This acquisition strengthens our footprint in the region and supports our long-term growth strategy.”
“The Dover facility’s strong customer base and strategic location expand our ability to deliver high-quality, sustainable packaging solutions with greater speed and reliability. We look forward to welcoming the team and working closely with customers to ensure a smooth and successful integration.”
IP explains how the investment aligns with its strategy to “maximize value creation” for customers, shareholders, and employees.
Dennis D. Mehiel, president and CEO at DCP, adds: “We are pleased to see IP step into ownership of the Delmarva Corrugated assets.”
“We cannot think of an organization better suited to help the team in Dover achieve the full potential of the business, and we are confident this transaction will benefit all of DCP's stakeholders.”
The financial terms of the deal have not been publicly disclosed.
Navigating the paper packaging market
The investment comes as another development in IP’s strategy following its acquisition of DS Smith last year.
In January 2025, the US paper giant outbid Mondi, with its chairman and CEO, Andy Silvernail, asserting that “the combination of the companies can enhance IP’s offerings, increase innovation, and expand our geographic reach.”
Later that year, ProAmpac acquired IP's bag converting operations. IP also closed two of its US packaging production sites in Compton, California, and Louisville, Kentucky.
Recently, IP announced it would split into two publicly traded companies, with its EMEA Packaging business spun off to shareholders. The EMEA entity is essentially DS Smith’s operations plus IP’s packaging assets in the region.
IP revealed a loss from continuing operations of US$2.36 billion in Q4 2025, with a net loss of US$2.38 billion for the same period.
