Greif, Inc. announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Lee Container Corporation, Inc. (“Lee Container” or “Lee”), an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance barrier and conventional blow molded containers, for a purchase price of $300 million before taking into consideration tax benefits with an estimated net present value of approximately $30 million. The all-cash transaction will be funded through Greif’s existing credit facility and is expected to close by the end of the calendar year, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory clearances. Lee Container is a leader in North American blow molded jerrycan production, primarily serving growth-oriented customers in the agrochemical, other specialty chemicals, oil & lubricant, and pet care segments. Lee Container operates three strategically positioned manufacturing facilities in Homerville, GA, Centerville, IA, and Nacogdoches, TX, with over 500 employees throughout the U.S. For the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2022, Lee generated sales of $162 million and adjusted EBITDA of $33 million. Additionally, as part of the acquisition, Greif expects to realize approximately $6 million in synergies within the first two years of ownership.

Hood Container Corporation announced today that it has acquired the corrugated packaging business of Dalton, GA based Sustainable Printing LLC. The transaction includes all printing, converting, and ancillary equipment located in Dalton, GA. Hood will continue operating these assets in the current facility. These assets complement Hood Container’s Southeastern footprint creating greater corrugated capacity and enhanced production capabilities in the Georgia and Tennessee region. This acquisition increases Hood Container’s digital print production footprint and will allow the company to continue expanding its corrugated converting capabilities. Charlie Hodges, President and COO of Hood Container Corporation, commented, “The Dalton facility will provide additional capacity and new capabilities to Hood’s presence in the markets we serve. We are excited to add these capabilities to Hood’s offerings to better serve and care for our existing and new customers.”

International Paper announced Thursday it plans to split into two independent, publicly traded companies based on geography, following its acquisition of U.K.-based DS Smith in January 2025. Going forward, IP would be comprised of the current North American business, which includes legacy assets from both IP and DS Smith. The Europe, Middle East and Africa business would include legacy assets from both companies in that region. IP’s current EMEA business operates in 30 countries across the region. IP expects to complete the spinoff in the next 12 to 15 months, pending board and regulatory approvals in both the United States and United Kingdom.