Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

Investment firm to buy Jefferson Smurfit

Chicago-based Madison Dearborn Partners agreed to buy Jefferson Smurfit Group PLC (Dublin, Ireland) for US$3.5 billion.

In a second element to the transaction, Jefferson Smurfit Group will distribute a 29.3% stake to stockholders for the Chicago-based Smurfit-Stone Container Corp.

Smurfit-Stone Container president and CEO Patrick Moore said his company’s operating strategy won’t be affected if Jefferson Smurfit Group goes ahead with its plan to distribute its 71.6 million Smurfit-Stone shares to stockholders.

The Jefferson Smurfit deal represents Madison Dearborn’s fifth investment in the paper and packaging industry.

For more information see Jefferson Smurfit Group’s Web site at www.smurfit-group.com.

Get a jump on your 2026 packaging & processing goals at PACK EXPO East.
Be the first to find what’s next in packaging & processing at PACK EXPO East. See new solutions from 500 exhibitors, uncover creative ideas for 40+ verticals and gain inspiration from free sessions on industry trends—all in one trip to Philadelphia.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE
Get a jump on your 2026 packaging & processing goals at PACK EXPO East.
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—Packaging World editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability