History
International Paper was formed in 1898 in Albany, New York, through the merger of 17 pulp and paper mills. Since then, driven by its commitment to creating value for its customers, the company has worked tirelessly to establish a global network of resources. In the mid-1990s, for example, the company undertook strategic expansion in Eastern Europe, especially within Poland and Russia. The company’s growth strategy, together with its focus on innovation, helped push sales past the $20 billion mark by 1996.
The late 1990s witnessed high-profile mergers, including the acquisition of Federal Paper Board and Union Camp, followed by those of Shorewood Packaging and Champion International, which gave International Paper a significant position in South America. Today, under Chairman and CEO John Faraci, the company continues to leverage its formula for success: embracing dedicated and highly motivated employees, who are in turn focused on delivering superior value to customers through operational excellence.
