Two major players in the reusable transport packaging sector, IPL and Schoeller Allibert, have announced their merger. This strategic combination will create a leading global entity with a projected annual revenue of US$1.4 billion in 2024 and a significant operational footprint spanning 27 locations across Europe, the United Kingdom, and North America.

IPL, known for its robust range of rigid plastic products and international sustainable packaging solutions, brings to the table extensive manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the United Kingdom and North America. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, IPL boasts approximately 2,500 employees across 16 manufacturing sites and reported revenues of US$822 million in 2024.

Schoeller Allibert specializes in returnable transport packaging solutions catering to diverse industries such as agriculture, beverage, food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, retail, and material handling, primarily within Continental Europe. With its headquarters in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands, the company employs around 1,600 people across 11 production locations and generated revenues of €550 million in 2024.

The newly formed company will establish its headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, and will be led by current IPL CEO Alan Walsh. The transaction is anticipated to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to standard closing conditions.

Mr 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 skillsets of both companies to build a strong, resilient foundation for growth."

Alejandro Cabal Uribe, Schoeller Allibert CEO, added: "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."

The merger is being backed by leading investment funds managed by Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC (“MDP”), a Chicago-based private equity firm, and CDPQ, a global investment group. Brookfield Asset Management’s private equity business is selling Schoeller Allibert. Post-acquisition, the new company will be 55% owned by the existing IPL shareholders and 45% owned by the existing Schoeller Allibert shareholders.