American Industrial Partners Announces Acquisition of International Paper's Global Cellulose Fibers Business

On January 23, 2026, American Industrial Partners (AIP), a prominent investor focused on the industrial sector, made a significant announcement regarding its acquisition of the Global Cellulose Fibers (GCF) business from International Paper. This strategic move allows GCF to operate as an independent entity, enhancing its position in the global pulp market. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the Global Cellulose Fibers business is renowned for being the world's leading supplier of high-quality absorbent fluff pulp, which is widely used in personal care products like feminine hygiene items, incontinence products, and diapers.

In 2024, GCF reported an impressive revenue of approximately $2.3 billion and currently employs about 3,300 individuals across nine manufacturing facilities situated in the United States, Canada, and Poland. According to Rick Hoffman, a partner at AIP, the acquisition marks a new chapter for GCF. He expressed confidence in GCF's established market position, skilled workforce, and robust relationships with customers, which collectively position the company well for future growth. "We are excited to welcome GCF into the AIP family and believe that our operational expertise will help improve performance further," Hoffman stated.

The acquisition underscores AIP’s long-term commitment to investing in quality industrial businesses. AIP aims to implement transformative strategies that enhance operational efficiency and overall value creation for the acquired companies. Clay Ellis, CEO of Global Cellulose Fibers, echoed similar sentiments, sharing his enthusiasm for this new partnership. "Becoming an independent company opens new opportunities for GCF. Our priorities align well with AIP’s long-term investment philosophy, and together we are dedicated to serving our customers and strengthening our market presence," he remarked.

The collaboration with AIP provides GCF with a chance to leverage AIP’s substantial expertise in managing and growing industrial operations. On another note, BofA Securities played a pivotal role as the financial advisor to AIP during this transaction, managing both the financial structure and financing for the acquisition. Legal advice was furnished by Davis Polk Wardwell LLP, Ropes & Gray LLP, and Baker Botts LLP, covering aspects like transaction and regulatory counsel.

With a strong foundation and strategic backing from AIP, GCF is expected to honor its commitment to quality and operational excellence while exploring avenues for future growth and innovation within the global cellulose pulp market. As they move forward, both AIP and GCF remain dedicated to enhancing productivity, maintaining high standards of product quality, and implementing their shared goals to ensure long-term sustainability and growth in their respective sectors.

This acquisition is a key step for AIP, which has an extensive history of investing in industrial segments, consistently seeking to identify and support companies that exhibit substantial growth potential. AIP's portfolio now encompasses a significant share of industrial entities, validating their approach and vision within the sector. The future seems promising for Global Cellulose Fibers as they embark on this journey with AIP at their helm, leading towards an innovative and prosperous future in the pulp and paper industry.

Topics Consumer Products & Retail)

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