DS Smith gets go-ahead to buy Europac

The European Commission has approved DS Smith’s acquisition of Europac, although it is conditional on the divestment of a number of production plants in Portugal and France.

Both DS Smith and Europac produce paper and packaging products, in particular corrugated packaging such as corrugate cases used to transport industrial and consumer goods. DS Smith is active across the European Economic Area and Europac has activities in France, Spain and Portugal.

DS Smith offered to divest Europac’s box plant in Ovar, Portugal; and two DS Smith plants in France: “DSS Normandie” and “DSS Normandie (Cabourg)”, which produce corrugated sheets and cases for supply in Western France.

Chief executive Miles Roberts said: “We look forward to completing the formal takeover process and integrating Europac into DS Smith to the benefit of all our stakeholders. This acquisition is a fantastic opportunity to enhance our customer coverage and offering in this important region.”