International Paper Reports First-Quarter 2026 Results with Higher Sales and Positive Earnings

International Paper reported net sales of $5.97 billion for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, alongside earnings from continuing operations of $76 million, compared with a loss of $124 million in the same period last year.

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations totaled $677 million, slightly below $689 million reported a year earlier. Cash provided by operating activities reached $611 million, while free cash flow stood at $94 million for the quarter.

The company also reported receiving $1.1 billion in net proceeds from the sale of its Global Cellulose Fibers business and used $660 million to reduce debt.

By segment, Packaging Solutions North America generated $3.63 billion in sales, down from $3.70 billion a year earlier, with operating profit of $248 million. Packaging Solutions EMEA reported sales of $2.32 billion, up from $1.55 billion in the prior-year quarter, but posted an operating loss of $51 million.

Chairman and CEO Andy Silvernail said the company made progress in commercial execution and cost reduction, noting improved productivity in mills and box plants. He added that performance was affected by a “tougher macro environment,” including inflation and the impact of a severe winter storm.

Looking ahead, International Paper expects second-quarter adjusted EBITDA in the range of $520 million to $570 million and reaffirmed its full-year target of $3.2 billion to $3.5 billion. The company said it remains focused on cost management, operational performance, and advancing the planned separation of its North America and EMEA businesses.