International Paper (IP) has completed the acquisition of Delmarva Corrugated Packaging (DCP), based in Dover, Delaware, United States, in a move aimed at expanding its corrugated packaging capacity and strengthening its regional market presence across North America.
Tom Hamic, Executive Vice President and President for Packaging Solutions North America at International Paper, highlighted the importance of the deal for the company’s long-term direction. “This acquisition strengthens our footprint in the region and supports our long-term growth strategy,” he stated. “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.”
International Paper has described the transaction as consistent with its broader strategy to maximize value creation for customers, shareholders, and employees. The Dover facility’s operational efficiency, established customer relationships, and geographic positioning are among the key factors cited for the deal’s alignment with IP’s growth objectives.
Dennis D. Mehiel, President and Chief Executive Officer at DCP, also expressed confidence in the outcome of the transaction. “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,” he said.
The Delmarva Corrugated Packaging acquisition is the latest in a series of strategic moves by International Paper as it reshapes its corrugated packaging capacity and global operational footprint. The company’s acquisition of DS Smith in early 2025 was a major preceding step, with IP’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Andy Silvernail noting at the time that the combination of the two companies could enhance IP’s offerings, increase innovation, and expand geographic reach a deal that IP had pursued after outbidding Mondi.
Later in 2025, ProAmpac acquired IP’s bag converting operations. In addition, International Paper closed two of its United States packaging production sites, located in Compton, California, and Louisville, Kentucky.
In a separate but concurrent development, International Paper announced plans to split into two publicly traded companies. Under this plan, its Europe, Middle East, and Africa packaging business comprising primarily DS Smith’s operations along with IP’s regional packaging assets is to be spun off to shareholders as an independent entity.
On the financial front, International Paper reported a loss from continuing operations of US$2.36 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, with a net loss of US$2.38 billion recorded for the same period.
The deal reflects the company’s continued efforts to consolidate its packaging solutions North America operations and reinforce its corrugated packaging capacity at a time of significant structural change within the organization.