ADIA offloads half of IFCO stake to Stonepeak in major food packaging deal

UAE — The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has offloaded approximately 50% of its stake in IFCO Group, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions for fresh foods, to U.S.-based infrastructure investment firm Stonepeak.

The deal, announced today, establishes Stonepeak as a co-controlling shareholder in IFCO alongside existing investor Triton, which will retain its stake and continue its strategic involvement in the company.

The agreement marks a significant reshaping of IFCO’s ownership structure and underscores growing investor interest in circular economy solutions and sustainable logistics.

The transaction, subject to customary regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Founded in 1992, IFCO operates one of the largest reusable packaging container (RPC) logistics networks globally, managing over 400 million RPCs that support more than 2.5 billion shipments of fresh produce and perishables annually.

With operations in over 50 countries, 140 service centers, and a client base of over 300 retailers and 18,000 growers, the company is widely recognized for its closed-loop, circular supply chain model.

This system reduces waste, enhances supply chain efficiency, and lowers carbon footprints compared to single-use packaging.

Stonepeak, which specializes in critical infrastructure and real assets, sees IFCO as a cornerstone investment aligned with its strategic focus on North American logistics and sustainability.

“IFCO’s network, scale, and sustainability-driven model make it a vital part of global fresh food infrastructure,” said Nikolaus Woloszczuk, Senior Managing Director at Stonepeak.

IFCO CEO Michael Pooley welcomed Stonepeak to the ownership table, noting that the company has undergone a strategic transformation under ADIA and Triton.

“We’re entering a new chapter of growth, and with Stonepeak’s infrastructure expertise and Triton’s continued support, IFCO is well-positioned to enhance its global leadership in sustainable packaging,” he said.

The move comes as global demand rises for ESG-aligned packaging solutions, especially in sectors like fresh food, retail, and consumer goods.

IFCO’s reusable plastic containers are designed to reduce environmental impact and meet regulatory requirements increasingly focused on eliminating single-use packaging.

ADIA, which first invested in IFCO during its carve-out from Brambles in 2019, called the exit a successful conclusion to a productive investment period.

“IFCO has built strong foundations for future growth,” said Hamad Shahwan Aldhaheri, Executive Director of ADIA’s Private Equities Department.

The deal reinforces IFCO’s status as a critical player in sustainable food logistics and sets the stage for accelerated expansion and innovation in reusable packaging systems.

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