International Paper to Sharpen Focus on Industrial Packaging, Announces Spin-off of Printing Papers
International Paper announced a plan to pursue a spin-off of the Company's Printing Papers segment into a standalone, publicly traded company. The transaction will result in two streamlined, leading companies well positioned for long-term success. Upon completion of the transaction, International Paper and SpinCo will each be well positioned to create long-term value. The Company expects the separation to be tax-free for the Company's shareowners for U.S. federal income tax purposes and plans to complete the spin-off late in the third quarter of 2021. SpinCo intends to raise debt in order to pay a dividend to International Paper, which will be used to pay down outstanding debt. Upon completion of the spin-off, Jean-Michel Ribiéras, currently senior vice president, Industrial Packaging, will become the chief executive officer of the new company, which we will refer to as SpinCo until the company establishes its own corporate identity.