Smurfit Westrock Dismissed from Price-Fixing Lawsuit While Others Seek Dismissal

Smurfit Westrock was dismissed from an ongoing price-fixing lawsuit involving major paper and packaging companies, including Smurfit Kappa, WestRock, Cascades, Georgia-Pacific, International Paper, and others. The plaintiff, Artuso Pastry, accused the defendants of orchestrating a corrugated materials cartel by raising prices collectively. The defendants filed motions to dismiss the case citing the plaintiff's failure to state a legal claim, arguing that allegations lack sufficient evidence of collusion or advance agreements. Smurfit Westrock’s dismissal was without prejudice, indicating possible future involvement if new evidence arises, although this is rare. Packaging Corporation of America and Pratt Industries independently requested dismissal "with prejudice," aiming to end litigation permanently. Legal experts note that follow-the-leader pricing does not amount to unlawful conspiracy and that capacity expansions by some defendants contradict collusion claims. The case continues against other defendants, with response deadlines and further legal proceedings scheduled over the coming months.