International Paper Successfully Completes Riverdale Mill Machine Conversion, Strengthening North American Packaging Network

International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) announced the successful completion of the Riverdale mill machine conversion during the second quarter of 2026, marking a key milestone in the company's strategic transformation of its North American packaging operations. The project supports International Paper's efforts to enhance mill performance, improve operational reliability, and expand its corrugated packaging capabilities.

"Our teams delivered strong second quarter results as execution continued to improve across the company," said Chairman and CEO Andy Silvernail. "In North America, we improved mill performance and successfully completed the Riverdale machine conversion, while continuing to grow box volumes and remain on track to outperform the market."

The Riverdale project forms part of International Paper's broader investment strategy aimed at modernizing its manufacturing network. During the second quarter, the company also completed several strategic initiatives, including the acquisitions of the NORPAC mill in Longview, Washington, and the Delmarva corrugated packaging facility in Dover, Delaware.

Within the Packaging Solutions North America segment, operating profit totaled $204 million in the second quarter. While results reflected temporary costs associated with the Riverdale machine conversion and planned reliability investments, the company reported stronger mill performance, higher sales volumes, favorable pricing, and continued growth in its domestic business.

Looking ahead, International Paper expects continued operational improvements as it focuses on executing commercial and cost-reduction initiatives, improving reliability across its manufacturing network, and delivering sustainable value for customers and shareholders.