International Paper to Acquire NORPAC, Expands U.S. Containerboard Capacity

The $360 million deal will bolster International Paper's sustainable packaging and containerboard business.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 10:55am

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a stack of premium, matte-finish cardboard boxes in various shades of brown and gray, conceptually representing the raw materials and packaging products of the containerboard industry.The acquisition of NORPAC will bolster International Paper's sustainable packaging capabilities and containerboard production in the Pacific Northwest.Seattle Today

International Paper, a leading global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper products, has announced an agreement to acquire North Pacific Paper Company (NORPAC) from private equity firm One Rock Capital Partners for $360 million. The acquisition will expand International Paper's containerboard capacity and strengthen its position in the sustainable packaging market.

Why it matters

The deal represents International Paper's continued focus on growing its containerboard and packaging business, which is a key strategic priority for the company as it seeks to capitalize on rising demand for sustainable, fiber-based packaging solutions. NORPAC's mill in Longview, Washington will provide additional scale and capabilities to International Paper's North American containerboard network.

The details

Under the terms of the agreement, International Paper will acquire NORPAC, which operates an integrated pulp and paper mill in Longview, Washington. The mill has the capacity to produce 960,000 tons of containerboard and 360,000 tons of pulp annually. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

  • International Paper announced the acquisition agreement on April 20, 2026.
  • The $360 million deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

The players

International Paper

A leading global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper products.

NORPAC

North Pacific Paper Company, an integrated pulp and paper mill located in Longview, Washington.

One Rock Capital Partners

A private equity firm that previously owned NORPAC.

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What they’re saying

“This acquisition aligns with our strategy to grow our containerboard and packaging business and expand our footprint in the Pacific Northwest.”

— Mark Sutton, Chairman and CEO of International Paper

What’s next

The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

The takeaway

The deal strengthens International Paper's position in the sustainable packaging market by expanding its containerboard capacity and geographic reach, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region.