International Paper Co - IP STOCK NEWS

International Paper (NYSE: IP) has acquired two advanced corrugated box plants located in Spain, specifically in Madrid and Catalonia, effective April 1, 2021. The acquisition aims to enhance the company's capabilities in the corrugated packaging market, which is essential for industrial, fresh produce, and e-commerce sectors. The financial terms of the transactions remain undisclosed, but this strategic move underscores International Paper's commitment to expanding its operations in the EMEA region. The company generated net sales of $21 billion in 2020 and serves over 25,000 customers globally.

International Paper has acquired Berkley International's Molded Fiber manufacturing division, Berkley MF LLC, enhancing its sustainable packaging portfolio. The acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, aims to strengthen International Paper's position in the eco-friendly packaging market, providing a competitive alternative to single-use plastics and foam products. Berkley MF specializes in the design and distribution of custom molded fiber packaging and operates from a state-of-the-art facility in Reno, Nevada. Berkley International will continue servicing its existing customers.

International Paper Company (NYSE: IP) has elected DG Macpherson to its Board of Directors effective March 1, 2021. Macpherson, currently the Chairman and CEO of W.W. Grainger, brings extensive experience in supply chain, manufacturing, and operational management. His appointment follows a national search by the Diversified Search Group and increases the Board to 12 members. Mark Sutton, the Chairman and CEO, expressed confidence that Macpherson's diverse background will enhance the Board's strategic direction and customer experience initiatives.

International Paper (NYSE: IP) has agreed to sell its Kwidzyn pulp and paper mill to Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG for €670 million (about $812 million). The transaction is expected to close in Q3 2021, pending regulatory approvals. The Kwidzyn mill employs around 2,300 people and produces 740,000 metric tons of various paper products annually. This sale will generate significant cash proceeds and aligns with International Paper's strategy to focus on its corrugated packaging and absorbent fibers businesses following the planned spin-off of its Printing Papers business.

International Paper (NYSE: IP) announced that CEO Mark Sutton will present at the Virtual Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2021 Global Agriculture and Materials Conference on March 4, 2021, starting at 9:00 a.m. EST. The event will include a Fireside Chat, and those interested can access the presentation via the company's website. A replay will be available three hours post-event. International Paper is a global leader in renewable fiber-based products, with 2020 sales of $21 billion and operations spanning across multiple regions.

International Paper Company (NYSE: IP) has elected Anton V. Vincent to its Board of Directors, effective March 1, 2021. Vincent, currently President of Mars Wrigley North America, brings extensive experience from leadership roles at Greencore USA and General Mills. His perspective is expected to enhance value creation for the company. The announcement also includes the retirement of two directors, J. Steven Whisler and William J. Burns, the latter due to his nomination as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. This leadership shift aims to strengthen the Board's capabilities.

International Paper reported a full-year 2020 net earnings of $482 million ($1.22 per diluted share), down significantly from $1.2 billion in 2019. The fourth quarter earnings were $153 million ($0.39 per diluted share), a decrease from $165 million in Q4 2019. Adjusted operating earnings for 2020 were $1.1 billion ($2.80 per diluted share), a drop from $1.8 billion in 2019. The company generated $3.1 billion in cash from operations but reported a free cash flow of $2.3 billion, unchanged from 2019. Additionally, debt was reduced by $1.7 billion, and $800 million was returned to shareholders.