WestRock

WestRock was a leading American company specializing in paper and packaging solutions, offering a comprehensive range of products and services designed to meet the diverse needs of its global clientele. Established in 2015 through the merger of MeadWestvaco and RockTenn, WestRock quickly became a prominent player in the packaging industry. The company had a workforce of over 50,000 employees operating across more than 300 locations worldwide.

Product and Service Offerings

WestRock's extensive portfolio encompassed various packaging solutions, including:

• Corrugated Containers: Durable and versatile packaging solutions suitable for a wide array of products.
• Consumer Packaging: Designed to enhance product appeal and protect contents, catering to sectors such as food and beverage, personal care, and household goods.
• Bag-in-Box® Packaging: Innovative packaging solutions ideal for liquids and semi-liquids, commonly used in the beverage industry.
• Point-of-Sale Displays: Eye-catching displays that effectively showcase products in retail environments.
• Folding Cartons: Customizable cartons that provide both protection and marketing opportunities for a variety of products.
• Beverage and Food Packaging: Specialized packaging solutions designed to maintain product freshness and safety.
• Healthcare Packaging Solutions: Packaging that meets the stringent requirements of the healthcare industry, ensuring product integrity and compliance.
• Specialty Printing and Packaging: Tailored packaging solutions incorporating unique printing techniques to enhance brand visibility.
• Paperboard Rolls and Containerboard: High-quality paper products serving as the foundation for various packaging applications.
• Partitions: Protective inserts designed to safeguard products during transit and storage.
• Recycling Services: Comprehensive recycling solutions aimed at promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Central to WestRock's operations was its commitment to sustainability. The company prioritized the use of renewable, recyclable, and recycled materials in its packaging solutions, aligning with the principles of the circular economy. This dedication not only addressed environmental concerns but also provided clients with eco-friendly packaging options that met both functional and regulatory standards.

Global Presence and Operations

Headquartered in Sandy Springs, Georgia, WestRock's global footprint spanned:

• North America
• South America
• Europe
• Asia
• Australia

The company operated over 500 packaging converting operations and 59 paper mills, underscoring its extensive manufacturing capabilities. This vast network enabled WestRock to serve a diverse clientele by delivering tailored packaging solutions addressing specific market needs across various regions.

Merger with Smurfit Kappa

In July 2024, WestRock merged with Smurfit Kappa, a leading European packaging company, to form Smurfit WestRock. This strategic merger created one of the world's largest paper and packaging producers. It combined the strengths and expertise of both entities to offer an unparalleled range of sustainable packaging solutions globally.

Locations

Prior to the merger, WestRock maintained a significant presence in the United States, with key locations including:

• Chester, PA, USA: A notable operational site contributing to the company's extensive manufacturing and distribution network.
• Fernandina Beach, FL, USA: A strategic location supporting WestRock's regional operations.
• Overland Park, KS, USA: Part of WestRock's network, serving various operational needs.
• Mission, KS, USA: Contributing to the company's manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
• Raleigh, NC, USA: A key location within WestRock's operational framework.
• Kansas City, MO, USA: Supporting WestRock's extensive operations in the region.
• Springfield, MO, USA: Part of WestRock's network, contributing to its manufacturing and distribution efforts.

These locations played a crucial role in WestRock's ability to deliver high-quality packaging solutions to its diverse customer base across the United States.

In summary, WestRock's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions established it as a leader in the packaging industry. The company offered a comprehensive suite of products and services designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.