Flexible packaging solutions suppliers Scholle IPN will be acquired by SIG, an aseptic carton packaging company. The target completion of the deal is before 3Q 2022.

Switzerland-based SIG will diversify offerings by including its bag-in-box and spouted pouch items in the new product portfolio. It will also promote its net positive food packaging system, which is achieved through the Way Beyond Good approach.

Samuel Sigrist, CEO of SIG, said of combination of businesses, “The acquisition of Scholle IPN cements SIG’s position as a global leader in innovative and sustainable packaging for food and beverages. It is consistent with our strategy of geographic and category expansion accompanied by share gains in key markets. By delivering clear benefits for customers, consumers, and the environment, we will drive value for shareholders.”

Laurens Last, Chairman and owner of Scholle IPN, stated “I am excited about the future of the combined business, and I look forward to our joint innovation, with SIG further developing packaging substrates and solutions that are at the forefront of sustainability.” Mr. Last will be nominated for election to the SIG Board of Directors at the company’s Annual General Meeting on April 7, 2022.

Ross Bushnell, President and CEO of Scholle IPN, will continue to lead the legacy Scholle IPN business and will join SIG’s Group Executive Board upon transaction close. Mr. Bushnell commented that “SIG and Scholle IPN are highly complementary businesses in terms of market approach and the importance of sustainability of our products. I believe that the combination of entrepreneurial spirit, nimble market response, and shared R&D capabilities will enable us to accelerate innovations for our customers and cement our collective market leadership in sustainable packaging solutions – particularly across aseptic and mono-material offerings which are key to packaging for the circular economy.”

The new company will employ up to 8,000 people, spanning across 69 sales and manufacturing facilities. The two companies will share technology and R&D capabilities in renewable paper substrates, film extrusion, injection molding, filling equipment, based on an Industry 4.0- manufacturing mindset.