International Paper announced a $360 million cash purchase of North Pacific Paper Company (NORPAC) in Longview, Washington. The deal will add roughly one million tons of containerboard and other grades to IP’s North American portfolio, boosting its West Coast capacity and geographic reach.
The acquisition is part of IP’s broader transformation toward high‑margin, sustainable packaging. It follows the divestiture of its Global Cellulose Fibers business to American Industrial Partners and the January 2025 purchase of DS Smith. NORPAC’s recent shift from newsprint to recycled packaging‑grade paper dovetails with IP’s focus on lightweight, high‑performance recycled containerboard, creating operational synergies and reinforcing the company’s sustainability credentials.
NORPAC operates three high‑speed machines and employs about 500 people. The mill’s capacity of one million tons of containerboard will be integrated into IP’s existing West Coast operations, providing scale and flexibility for customers seeking recycled packaging solutions.
"This acquisition is a strong strategic fit for our business and supports our long‑term value creation priorities. NORPAC’s attractive customer base, location and operational capabilities strengthen our ability to serve customers in the growing West Coast region. We look forward to partnering with the mill team and its customers to deliver a safe, seamless integration," said Tom Hamic, Executive Vice President and President of Packaging Solutions North America at International Paper. Tony Lee, Co‑Founder and Managing Partner of One Rock Capital Partners, added, "NORPAC is a high‑quality business built on the strength of its first‑rate management team and employees. We are proud to have achieved together a years‑long transformation of NORPAC during our ownership. We believe this transaction with International Paper underscores the value created at NORPAC and positions the company for continued success as part of a larger platform."
The deal positions International Paper ahead of competitors such as Packaging Corporation of America and Smurfit WestRock by deepening its West Coast footprint and reinforcing its sustainability narrative. The addition of NORPAC’s recycled‑paper expertise and capacity is expected to enhance IP’s ability to meet growing demand for eco‑friendly packaging solutions in the region.
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