Mondi PLC (LSE:MNDI) said it believes a merger with DS Smith represents an "exciting opportunity" but said an acquisition would need to fit its capital allocation policy.
Mondi confirmed it is in the early stages of considering a bid for DS Smith. It believes a tie-up would be an "exciting opportunity to create an industry leader in European paper-based sustainable packaging solutions".
Earlier, DS Smith shares jumped after the company confirmed it had received a "highly preliminary expression of interest" from its packaging industry peer which could create a company worth more than £10 billion.
Mondi added: "Mondi's strategy is to deliver value accretive growth and, as noted above, adopts a disciplined approach to acquisitions and investment within its capital allocation framework.
"Any transaction with DS Smith would be assessed against this framework. Mondi remains committed to maintaining a strong and stable financial position supported by a solid investment grade credit rating and a dividend policy aimed at offering shareholders long-term dividend growth within the context of its stated cover policy."
Mondi said a deal would also benefit from substantial synergies.
The possible bid comes hot on the heels of the £2.5 billion deal in the housebuilding sector between Redrow and Barratt Developments, announced on Wednesday, adding to a belief that more M&A activity is likely in 2024.