IPL merges with Schoeller Allibert to create US$1.4 billion revenue reusable plastic packaging company

IPL, a manufacturer of rigid-plastic products, announced it is merging with Schoeller Allibert, a manufacturer of reusable transport packaging. The proposed merger creates an international sustainable packaging producer with a manufacturing footprint in 27 locations across Europe, the United Kingdom and North America, and a combined proforma annual revenue of over US $1.4 billion in 2024. 

IPL mainly manufactures sustainable, rigid-plastic products for the food, consumer, environmental and agriculture sectors, largely in North America, with significant manufacturing operations in the United Kingdom. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, it has approximately 2,500 employees across 16 manufacturing sites and reported revenue of US$822 million in 2024. 

Schoeller Allibert manufactures returnable transport packaging and provides related services, serving customers across sectors such as automotive, beverage, food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, retail, and material handling, primarily in Continental Europe. Headquartered in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands, it has approximately 1,600 employees across 11 production locations and had revenue of €550 million in 2024. 

The merged company will be headquartered in Dublin, Ireland and led by current IPL CEO Alan Walsh.  

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter 2025, subject to customary 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.” 

Schoeller Allibert CEO Alejandro Cabal Uribe said: 

“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.” 

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

Advisors 

Evercore and BMO Capital Markets are serving as financial advisors to IPL.