With a combined value of $16 billion, packaging giants Rock-Tenn Company and MeadWestvaco Corporation (MWV) announced they have entered into an agreement to merge, creating a global provider of consumer and corrugated packaging solutions.
“This transaction brings together two highly complementary organizations to create a new, more powerful company with leadership positions in the global consumer and corrugated packaging markets,” said Steven Voohees, CEO of RockTenn. “This is a terrific opportunity for shareholders, employees and customers of both companies, all of whom stand to benefit enormously from the combination. Importantly, our two companies are also an exceptional cultural fit, sharing a commitment to exceeding customer expectations and a focus on developing innovative packaging solutions. Planning for the integration of these two companies has already started and we expect to expeditiously realize the full value of cost synergies we have identified.”