Ahlstrom Accelerates Growth with Strategic Stevens Point Acquisition and Launch of Performance Materials Cluster

Ahlstrom Accelerates Growth with Strategic Stevens Point Acquisition and Launch of Performance Materials Cluster

(IN BRIEF) Ahlstrom, a leader in fiber-based specialty materials, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Stevens Point—a key provider of advanced solutions in the food, consumer packaging, and e-commerce sectors—from Pixelle Specialty Solutions. This strategic purchase, bolstered by the expertise of 260 employees and advanced finishing technologies, aims to enhance Ahlstrom’s leadership in sustainable packaging within the Food & Consumer Packaging segment. In parallel, the company is restructuring its operations by launching a new Performance Materials cluster that brings together four business units—Release Liners, Precision Coating, Beverage & Casing, and Abrasives—to improve operational agility and focus on growth opportunities. The acquisition, supported by a USD 600 million senior secured financing package, is expected to close in Q2 2025, with the new organizational structure taking effect on May 1, 2025.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 4-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Ahlstrom, a globally renowned leader in fiber-based specialty materials, today announced a definitive agreement to purchase Stevens Point—a provider of premium solutions in the food, consumer packaging, and e-commerce sectors—from Pixelle Specialty Solutions. In a bold move to further refine its strategy, Ahlstrom is also establishing a new Performance Materials cluster designed to streamline operations and unlock new growth potential. These two initiatives underscore the company’s commitment to continuous innovation and excellence in customer service.

Strategic Acquisition of Stevens Point

This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Ahlstrom’s ongoing transformation. Stevens Point, based in Wisconsin, is celebrated for its top-tier products, strong customer relationships, and the specialized expertise of its 260 employees. The addition of this business will provide Ahlstrom with enhanced capabilities to support clients transitioning to sustainable packaging, thereby reinforcing its leadership in the Food & Consumer Packaging segment. Integrating Stevens Point’s state-of-the-art finishing and coating technologies complements Ahlstrom’s current product portfolio, positioning the company to better meet evolving market demands.

Konraad Dullaert, Executive Vice President (EVP) of Food & Consumer Packaging and Chief Innovation Officer, commented, “This acquisition is a critical step in expanding our technological reach and market influence. By incorporating Stevens Point’s exceptional expertise and innovative solutions, we can further elevate our offerings across North America and beyond.” The purchase will be financed through a committed USD 600 million senior secured financing package, with any surplus directed toward general corporate purposes. Based on FY 2024 pro forma figures, the combined entity is expected to have a Net Leverage of 4.1x. Finalization of the deal is subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions, with closing anticipated in Q2 2025. UBS Investment Bank and PJT Partners serve as financial advisors, while legal counsel is provided by Ropes & Gray LLP and Kirkland & Ellis LLP.

Launch of the New Performance Materials Cluster

In tandem with the acquisition, Ahlstrom is also restructuring its business by launching a dedicated Performance Materials cluster. This cluster will consolidate four distinct business units—Release Liners, Precision Coating, Beverage & Casing, and Abrasives—into one agile organization. The new structure is aimed at enhancing operational flexibility and focusing on specific market opportunities to drive performance, efficiency, and competitiveness.

Wolfgang Laures, who will transition from his current role as Chief Operating Officer to become EVP of the Performance Materials Cluster, will lead the new entity. Each business unit within the cluster will continue to deliver specialized, high-quality solutions with an unwavering commitment to service excellence and cost efficiency. Additionally, this reorganization will allow Ahlstrom’s existing divisions—Food & Consumer Packaging, Filtration & Life Sciences, and Protective Materials—to sharpen their focus on their core growth areas in specialty materials.

Helen Mets, President and CEO of Ahlstrom, stated, “By acquiring Stevens Point and reorganizing our portfolio, we are taking a transformative leap forward. This dual strategy not only strengthens our technological and market capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable, long-term value creation for our stakeholders.” The new organizational structure will take effect on May 1, 2025, with Q1 2025 results slated for release on April 28.

Ahlstrom in brief  
Ahlstrom is a global leader in combining fibers into sustainable specialty materials. Our purpose is to Purify and Protect, with Every Fiber, for a Sustainable World. Our vision is to be the Preferred Sustainable Specialty Materials Company for all our stakeholders. Our three divisions, Filtration and Life Sciences, Food and Consumer Packaging, and Protective Materials, address global trends with safe and sustainable solutions. Our net sales in 2024 amounted to EUR 3.0 billion and we employ some 6,800 people. Read more www.ahlstrom.com.

Media Contacts:

Katja Ollila, Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications, +358 44 517 0891, katja.ollila@ahlstrom.com

Johan Lindh, Vice President, Investor Relations, +358 10 888 4994, johan.lindh@ahlstrom.com

SOURCE: Ahlstrom