International Paper vs Packaging Corp of America

International Paper and Packaging Corporation of America: this page compares their business models, financial performance, and market context in a neutral, accessible way. It explains how each company operates, their strategy, and the markets they serve, without making recommendations. Educational content, not financial advice.

International Paper and Packaging Corporation of America: this page compares their business models, financial performance, and market context in a neutral, accessible way. It explains how each company...

About The Companies

International Paper (IP)

International Paper Company (IP) is a large, US‑based manufacturer of pulp, paper and packaging products, serving consumer goods, e‑commerce and industrial customers around the world. The business combines timberland and manufacturing operations with a portfolio of containerboard, corrugated packaging and pulp assets. With a market capitalisation of about $25.17 billion, IP is sensitive to commodity cycles, raw‑material costs, freight rates and global demand for packaged goods. Recent investor interest has centred on packaging growth from e‑commerce, efficiency gains from capital allocation and sustainability initiatives such as recycled fibre use and responsible forestry. At the same time, cyclicality, exposure to input price swings and structural shifts in paper demand present risks. The company has historically returned cash to shareholders via dividends and buybacks, though payments can change. This summary is for educational purposes only and is not personal financial advice; investors should assess suitability for their own circumstances and consider speaking to a financial adviser.

Packaging Corp of America (PKG)

Packaging Corporation of America (PKG) is a leading North American manufacturer of containerboard and corrugated packaging products, serving consumer goods, e‑commerce, grocery and industrial sectors. With a market capitalisation near $18.73bn, PKG operates an integrated network of mills and converting plants, providing scale benefits and supply‑chain control. Investors tend to focus on volume trends and average selling prices, since revenues and margins are sensitive to demand cycles and raw‑material costs such as recovered fibre, pulp and energy. Management emphasis on operational efficiency, capacity management and capital returns can support cash generation, though outcomes vary with the economic cycle. Environmental and recycling credentials are increasingly material to customers and regulators. This summary is educational only and not investment advice; values can rise or fall, returns are not guaranteed, and investors should assess suitability and consider seeking personalised guidance.

Comparison Snapshot

Key Financial Metrics

IP

Metric

PKG

$20.35B

Market Cap

$18.45B

26.51%

Potential Profit

13.01%

Buy

Analyst Rating

Buy

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Green Packaging Investment Theme: 18 Stocks (2025)

International Paper's $1.5 billion sale of its cellulose fibers unit signals a strategic pivot to its core sustainable packaging business. This move highlights a broader industry trend of portfolio optimization, creating potential growth opportunities for companies focused on eco-friendly packaging solutions and related industries.

Published: August 22, 2025

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Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Green Packaging Investment Theme: 18 Stocks (2025)

International Paper's $1.5 billion sale of its cellulose fibers unit signals a strategic pivot to its core sustainable packaging business. This move highlights a broader industry trend of portfolio optimization, creating potential growth opportunities for companies focused on eco-friendly packaging solutions and related industries.

Published: August 22, 2025

Explore Basket

Investment Analysis