A Legacy Company Takes Bold New Steps
Memphis-based International Paper, a staple of the city’s business landscape since the 1950s, has announced a transformative decision. The Fortune 500 company is set to split into two distinct publicly traded businesses, separating its North American operations from its EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) division. This change was officially announced in January 2026 and is expected to significantly impact Memphis’s corporate community and global markets alike.
What Will Change in Memphis?
International Paper’s headquarters will remain rooted in Memphis, ensuring continued local employment and community involvement. The North American side will focus on packaging, papers, and sustainable products for which the company is known. Meanwhile, the EMEA branch will operate independently, managing business across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With over 38,000 employees worldwide, including thousands right here in Memphis, the split signals a sharpened focus on innovation and growth for each market.
Why This Matters for the Bluff City
Memphis’s legacy as a logistics and industry hub deepens with every evolution of companies like International Paper. As the company forges new paths, local stakeholders should watch for new economic opportunities, job retention, and potentially increased investment in Memphis’s neighborhoods and schools.
For more details, visit the official announcement on Action News 5 or follow updates via the International Paper website.
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Original Story by Hannah Kozlowski at https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/01/29/memphis-based-company-international-paper-splitting-into-two-companies/
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