IPL, a manufacturer of rigid plastic products, and Schoeller Allibert, a manufacturer of reusable transport packaging, have announced a merger that will create a global company focused on reusable plastic packaging.
IPL's existing shareholders will own a 55% stake in the newly formed company while the remaining 45% stake will be held by the existing Schoeller Allibert shareholders.
IPL CEO Alan Walsh said: “The future of packaging lies in sustainability, innovation and adaptability. This merger will allow IPL and Schoeller Allibert to combine our strengths on both sides of the Atlantic to meet that future together.
“With an unwavering commitment to innovation, we’ll not only enhance the way we serve our customers but also optimise the skill sets of both companies to build a strong, resilient foundation for growth.”
The combined business will operate 27 manufacturing sites across North America, the UK, and mainland Europe, with a combined pro-forma annual revenue of over $1.4bn in 2024.
IPL, based in Dublin, Republic of Ireland, produces rigid plastic items primarily used in food, environmental, agricultural, and consumer applications.
The company operates 16 sites and employs around 2,500 people, with much of its business concentrated in North America. Its revenue for 2024 was reported at $822m.
On the other hand, Schoeller Allibert, headquartered in Hoofddorp, Netherlands, specialises in returnable transport packaging for sectors such as automotive, retail, food, and healthcare.
Its operations are mainly based in continental Europe, with 11 production facilities and roughly 1,600 employees. The company recorded revenue of €550m ($621m) in 2024.
The newly merged entity will be based in Dublin and led by IPL’s Walsh.
Completion of the transaction is targeted for the third quarter (Q3) of 2025, subject to regulatory and customary approvals. No additional terms of the agreement were disclosed.
US-based private equity company Madison Dearborn Partners and global investment group CDPQ own IPL.
Meanwhile, Brookfield Asset Management’s private equity business and the Schoeller family own Schoeller Allibert.
Schoeller Allibert CEO Alejandro Cabal Uribe said: “Our combined strength in packaging solutions is well-positioned to benefit from the tailwinds for the sector, driven by corporate sustainability ambitions and evolving regulations to improve value chains and reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
“We look forward to together delivering leading customer service and innovative global solutions.”
