Mondi PLC (LSE:MNDI), the packaging company, has agreed in principle to merge with rival DS Smith PLC (LSE:SMDS) in a £5.14 billion deal to make a sector giant worth £10 billion.
DS Smith is valued at around 373p per share in the offer against 350p in the market on Friday though the price represents a 33% premium over the price as of February 7, the day before the announcement of talks.
"The combination is an exciting opportunity to create a pan-European industry leader in paper-based sustainable packaging solutions," the companies said in a joint statement.
Consolidation comes as paper packaging firms continue to struggle with reduced volumes and weaker prices, as the industry continues to re-adjust from the pandemic-induced e-commerce boom.
Last month, Mondi said the deal would be an “exciting opportunity to create an industry leader in European paper-based sustainable packaging solutions".
Mondi shareholders are set to own 54% of the new group, with the leadership being maintained with chief executive Andrew King and finance chief Mike Powell keeping their roles.
Last year, fellow industry rival Smurfit Kappa revealed it was merging with US company WestRock to create a US$34 billion-revenue packaging giant.
Mondi shares slipped 2% on the news.