International Paper breaks ground on new sustainable packaging facility in Iowa

USA – International Paper, a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, has commenced construction of a new state-of-the-art packaging plant in Waterloo, Iowa.

Strategically located in the Midwest, this greenfield facility will primarily serve the protein industry with custom, eco-friendly packaging solutions tailored to growing market demands.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology and machinery, the Waterloo plant is designed to deliver innovative and sustainable packaging products.

According to International Paper, the facility will also meet contemporary safety standards and incorporate the latest advancements in packaging technology.

Operations at the plant are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The project will create approximately 65 new jobs, expanding the site’s workforce to a total of 190 employees.

John Berry, Vice President at International Paper Group, commented, “We are thrilled to break ground and invest in our company and the city of Waterloo.

“This facility represents our commitment to expanding in key markets, enhancing our capabilities, and delivering high-quality, reliable products to our customers. We look forward to a strong future in Waterloo and are grateful to all who made this possible.”

European divestment as part of DS Smith acquisition

In a separate development, International Paper recently entered exclusive negotiations with Germany-based PALM Group for the sale of five corrugated packaging plants in Europe.

The divestment is part of the regulatory obligations tied to International Paper’s recent acquisition of DS Smith.

Three of the facilities are located in Normandy, France—two box plants in Saint-Amand and Mortagne, and a sheet plant in Cabourg. The other two are based in Ovar, Portugal, and Bilbao, Spain.

The proposed sale follows an irrevocable offer from PALM and is subject to several conditions, including consultations with French works councils, employee information procedures, and final approval from the European Commission.

A definitive share purchase agreement is expected to be signed once these steps are completed, with the transaction projected to close by the end of Q2 2025.

Andy Silvernail, Chair and CEO of International Paper, emphasized the strategic importance of the move, “This divestiture has been our top priority since the DS Smith acquisition.”

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