Dublin, Ireland-based Smurfit Westrock Plc (SW) manufactures, distributes, and sells containerboard, corrugated containers, and other paper-based packaging products in North America and internationally. The company has a market cap of $20.3 billion and produces containerboard and paperboard, packaging of corrugated containers, consumer packaging, and offers solid board, kraft paper, and graphic board, among others. Companies with a market capitalization of $10 billion or more are typically referred to as ...

Greif delivers industrial packaging and logistics solutions to global customers across sectors from chemicals to agriculture. EVR Research LP established a new position in Greif (NYSE:GEF) during the fourth quarter, acquiring 175,000 shares in a trade estimated at $11.85 million based on quarterly average pricing, according to a February 17, 2026, SEC filing. What happened According to its SEC filing dated February 17, 2026, EVR Research LP initiated a new position in Greif by purchasing 175,000 shares. ...

Core Insights - Atlantic Investment Management, Inc. has completely exited its position in Graphic Packaging, selling all 645,584 shares for an estimated $12.63 million [2][10] - The exit reflects a strategic shift away from Graphic Packaging, which had previously represented 7.3% of the fund's 13F reportable assets under management [8] Company Overview - Graphic Packaging is a leading provider of fiber-based packaging solutions, with a global customer base and a diverse product portfolio [6] - The company focuses on innovation and operational efficiency, leveraging integrated manufacturing capabilities and a broad distribution network [6] Financial Performance - As of February 17, 2026, Graphic Packaging's stock price was $12.37, down 53.2% over the past year, significantly underperforming the S&P 500's approximately 13% gain [8] - In 2025, net sales decreased by 2% to $8.6 billion, while net income fell to $444 million from $658 million the previous year, indicating compressed margins [11] - The company's net leverage increased to 3.8x from 3.0x, despite $935 million in capital expenditures primarily related to its $1.67 billion Waco project [11] Future Outlook - Management is targeting adjusted free cash flow of $700 million to $800 million in 2026, alongside guidance for lower adjusted EBITDA and EPS of $0.75 to $1.15, reflecting operational challenges [12] - The exit by Atlantic Investment Management may indicate a preference for reallocating capital towards businesses with stronger earnings momentum amid rising leverage and shrinking margins [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenues of $1.03 billion for Q4 2025, representing a 1% increase from $1.02 billion in Q4 2024 [18] - Full-year net revenues for 2025 were $3.7 billion, also reflecting a 1% year-over-year growth [20] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $220 million, a 3% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [20] - Full-year adjusted EBITDA decreased to $667 million from $678 million in 2024 [21] - Adjusted EPS for Q4 2025 was $0.59, slightly up from $0.58 in Q4 2024 [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hefty Waste and Storage and Presto segments delivered strong volume growth and share gains in Q4 2025 [19] - Hefty Tableware saw slight sequential volume improvement but continued to face challenges due to declines in foam products [19] - The company achieved share gains across its six largest core categories, outperforming its categories by over 1 point in 2025 and by 2 points in Q4 [6][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive landscape in the waste bag and food bag categories intensified, with increased promotional and pricing activity from competitors [11] - The company noted a pronounced increase in promotional activities in the waste category as it exited 2025 [40] - Retail volumes were down 2 points in Q4, but the company managed to maintain pricing power despite commodity pressures [11][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on innovation and differentiation as central to its growth strategy for 2026, building on the momentum established in 2025 [14] - A restructuring of the Hefty and Presto segments aims to enhance clarity and focus on category management, rather than cost-cutting [64] - The company plans to continue investing in automation and productivity initiatives to improve operational efficiency [23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates sustained headwinds in 2026, emphasizing the need for adaptability and focus [10] - The company expects net revenues for 2026 to range from -3% to +1% compared to 2025, with retail branded sales expected to perform at or above category performance [24] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate challenges and maintain stable results in 2026, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be flat year-over-year [13][25] Other Important Information - The company generated free cash flow of $316 million in 2025, benefiting from tight working capital management [22] - The company reduced its net debt leverage to 2.1x, providing financial flexibility for future investments [22] - Capital expenditures for 2026 are expected to remain elevated, with a focus on organic investment opportunities [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the restructuring with Presto and Hefty? - Management emphasized clarity and focus in category management, aiming for end-to-end management across each business unit without significant personnel changes [32][34] Question: Are we nearing a stabilization point for foam products? - Management indicated that while the category saw a 14% decline in 2025, they expect a reduced rate of decline in 2026, driven by consumer behavior and cost considerations [36] Question: Can you elaborate on the competitive dynamics in the Hefty business? - Management noted increased promotional activity from competitors but remains committed to maintaining brand equity and pricing strategy [40][41] Question: How do you view the elasticity of aluminum foil pricing? - Management believes that gradual price increases have helped mitigate elasticity risks, with tighter price gaps to private label brands providing some insulation [75] Question: What is the outlook for SG&A expenses in 2026? - Management plans to increase SG&A to support innovation and strategic initiatives while maintaining discipline in controllable costs [56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenues of $1.03 billion for Q4 2025, representing a 1% increase from $1.02 billion in Q4 2024 [18] - Full-year net revenues for 2025 were $3.7 billion, also reflecting a 1% year-over-year growth [20] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $220 million, a 3% increase compared to the same period in the previous year [20] - Full-year adjusted EBITDA decreased to $667 million from $678 million in 2024 [21] - Free cash flow for the full year was $316 million, benefiting from tight working capital management [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Hefty Waste and Storage and Presto segments delivered strong volume growth and share gains in Q4 2025 [19] - Hefty Tableware saw slight sequential volume improvement but continued to face challenges due to declines in foam products [19] - The company achieved share gains across its six largest core categories, outperforming the market by 2 points in Q4 2025 [6][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive landscape in the waste bag and food bag categories intensified, with increased promotional and pricing activity from competitors [11] - The company noted a decline in retail volumes of 2 points, despite implementing pricing actions to offset commodity cost increases [11][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three core pillars: Revenue Growth Management, Share Gap Selling, and Innovation [14] - A restructuring of the Hefty and Presto segments aims to enhance clarity and focus on category innovation and growth opportunities [34][64] - The company plans to continue investing in innovation and distribution opportunities to accelerate earnings growth [23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates sustained headwinds in 2026, emphasizing the need for adaptability and focus [10] - The company expects net revenues for 2026 to range from -3% to +1% compared to 2025, with retail branded sales expected to perform at or above category performance [24][25] - Management remains confident in the company's category leadership and innovation capabilities despite near-term challenges [13] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced its term loan facility and reduced net debt leverage to 2.1 times, providing financial flexibility for future investments [22] - The company plans to realign its category organization to increase efficiencies and sharpen focus on innovation [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the restructuring with Presto and Hefty? - The restructuring aims for clarity and focus, allowing dedicated teams to manage categories more effectively without significant personnel changes [32][34] Question: Are we nearing a stabilization point for foam products? - Volumes in the foam category were down about 14% in 2025, with expectations of a reduced decline in 2026, driven by consumer behavior and cost considerations [36] Question: Can you elaborate on the competitive dynamics around the Hefty business? - The company has seen increased promotional activity from competitors but believes maintaining price points is essential for brand equity [40][41] Question: How do you view the elasticity of aluminum foil pricing? - The company has observed tighter price gaps to private label and believes gradual price increases have helped mitigate elasticity risks [75][76] Question: What is the outlook for SG&A expenses in 2026? - SG&A is expected to increase as the company invests in innovation and strategic initiatives, following a year of optimizing costs [56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Third quarter net revenues were $931 million, an increase of more than 2% from $910 million in the year-ago period [16] - Adjusted EBITDA was $168 million compared to $171 million in the year-ago period, reflecting improved results in all operating segments [17] - Adjusted EPS was $0.42 versus $0.41 in the year-ago period, reflecting lower interest costs and tax initiatives [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail revenue of $864 million increased 1% compared to the third quarter of 2023, with retail volume growing 1% excluding foam products [16] - Reynolds Wrap retail sales were up 7%, with volumes outperforming the category [9] - Hefty brand, a nearly $2 billion brand, continues to lead in the scented waste bag segment, driving growth in the waste bag category [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The operating environment remains challenging, with low and middle-income consumers under pressure and retailers facing cost inflation [8] - The company noted that inflation remains above the Fed's target, impacting consumer sentiment negatively [34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on innovation and revenue growth management to drive share gains and profitability [39] - New leadership, including a Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Operations Officer, is expected to enhance operational capabilities and drive growth [14][39] - The company is investing in high-return projects to support growth and improve margins [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the promotional environment and addressing consumer pressures [31][34] - The company anticipates a flat to down 1% revenue outlook for the full year compared to 2024, with adjusted EBITDA guidance of $655 million to $665 million [19] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining cost discipline and leveraging U.S.-centric manufacturing advantages [8][19] Other Important Information - The company is making progress in managing manufacturing, supply chain, and SG&A costs while driving market share [7] - New product innovations, such as Reynolds Kitchens Air Fryer Liners, have been recognized for their growth potential [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you see the setup for the important holiday season in terms of promotional intensity and consumer behavior? - Management noted increased promotional activity in waste and food bags but feels confident in navigating the environment, with Hefty Waste Bags outperforming the category [31][32][34] Question: Why did you flag the risk of retailers shifting store brands to other suppliers? - Management indicated that economic challenges and tariff uncertainties could lead retailers to seek value through private label business, but they expect to win more than they lose as a U.S.-centric manufacturer [35] Question: Can you discuss the long-term strategy related to operational capabilities and growth? - Management emphasized the focus on innovation, revenue growth management, and driving additional share at the customer level as key components of their strategy [39][40] Question: What is the outlook for the tableware business and foam headwinds? - Management stated that foam headwinds are expected to lessen next year, and they are pleased with how profitability is being managed despite volume declines [45] Question: Can you comment on the promotional impact in the Hefty Waste and Storage segment? - Management acknowledged increased promotional intensity but highlighted that their promotional activity aligns with overall company levels, contributing to strong performance [48] Question: What is the current state of consumer behavior and its impact on Reynolds Cooking and Baking? - Management noted modest tailwinds from increased cooking at home but also acknowledged the impact of rising prices in the marketplace [66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Third quarter net revenues were $931 million, an increase of more than 2% from $910 million in the year-ago period [16] - Adjusted EPS was $0.42 compared to $0.41 in the year-ago period, reflecting lower interest costs and tax initiatives [17] - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA was $168 million compared to $171 million in the year-ago period [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail revenue of $864 million increased 1% compared to the third quarter of 2023, with retail volume growing 1% excluding foam products [16] - Reynolds Wrap retail sales were up 7%, with volumes outperforming the category [9] - Hefty Waste Bags saw retail takeaways increase by 9%, outperforming the category by 10 points [31] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The operating environment remains challenging, particularly for low and middle-income consumers facing cost inflation [8] - The company noted that inflation remains around 3%, above the Fed's target of 2% [33] - Consumer sentiment has declined, with double-digit decreases year to date heading into the holidays [33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on innovation and revenue growth management to drive share gains and profitability [39] - A new Chief Commercial Officer is leading growth programs to enhance market share across major customers [9] - The company is investing in high-return projects to support growth and drive margin improvements [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in retail trends and the effectiveness of implemented programs to drive near and long-term results [19] - The company anticipates net revenues to be flat to down 1% for the full year compared to 2024 [19] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining cost discipline in all areas, including SG&A [19] Other Important Information - The company is making progress in managing manufacturing, supply chain, and SG&A costs while driving market share [7] - New product innovations, such as Reynolds Kitchens Air Fryer liners, have been recognized for their growth potential [10] - The company is positioned well within its target leverage range of 2x-2.5x EBITDA, allowing for continued investment in growth opportunities [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you see the setup for the important holiday season in terms of promotional intensity and consumer behavior? - Management noted increased promotional activity in waste and food bags but feels confident in navigating the promotional environment [31][32] - Consumer sentiment remains under pressure, with inflation and cooling labor markets impacting lower-income demographics [33][34] Question: Can you elaborate on the risk of retailers shifting store brands to other suppliers? - Management flagged this risk due to economic challenges and uncertainty in supply chains, but expects to win more than lose as a US-centric manufacturer [34] Question: What is the grand plan related to operational capabilities and long-term growth? - The company is focused on driving growth through innovation, revenue growth management, and share gains at the customer level [39] Question: What is the outlook for the tableware business and foam products? - The tableware business is down primarily due to foam headwinds, but profitability has increased despite volume declines [42][43] Question: How is the Hefty Waste and Storage segment performing in terms of profitability and distribution? - The segment continues to perform well, with significant volume growth and effective management of promotional activities [46][47] Question: What is the current state of consumer behavior regarding dining out versus cooking at home? - There are modest tailwinds from increased cooking at home, but rising prices in the marketplace are also a factor [64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Third quarter net revenues were $931 million, an increase of more than 2% from $910 million in the year-ago period [15] - Adjusted EBITDA was $168 million compared to $171 million in the year-ago period, reflecting improved results in all operating segments [16] - Adjusted EPS was $0.42 versus $0.41 in the year-ago period, reflecting lower interest costs and tax initiatives [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail revenue of $864 million increased 1% compared to the third quarter of 2023, with retail volume growing 1% excluding foam products [15] - Hefty Waste Bags and Reynolds Wrap aluminum foil were highlighted as strong performers, with Hefty Waste Bags year-to-date retail takeaways up 9% [26][10] - The tableware business grew EBITDA despite sales volumes being down 13%, demonstrating increasing success in driving profitability [16][39] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The operating environment remains challenging, particularly for low and middle-income consumers facing cost inflation [6][28] - The company noted a shift in consumer behavior, with more affluent consumers tending to be brand loyalists while lower-income demographics are more value-oriented [28][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on innovation, revenue growth management, and driving additional share at the customer level [33] - New leadership, including a Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Operations Officer, is expected to enhance growth programs and operational efficiency [8][12] - The company is investing in high-return projects to support growth and drive margin improvements [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the continued pressure on consumers and the potential for increased promotional activity in certain categories [28][26] - The company remains confident in its ability to navigate the promotional environment and expects to leverage its U.S.-centric manufacturing footprint as a competitive advantage [6][29] - For the full year, the company expects net revenues to be flat to down 1% compared to 2024, with adjusted EBITDA guidance of $655 million to $665 million [18] Other Important Information - The company is making progress in managing manufacturing, supply chain, and SG&A costs while driving market share [5][12] - The company has implemented pricing actions to recover commodity and tariff impacts, with gross profit showing sequential improvement [16][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you see the setup for the holiday season in terms of promotional intensity and consumer behavior? - Management noted increased promotional activity in waste bags and food bags but feels confident in navigating the promotional environment, with retail takeaways for Hefty Waste Bags up 9% year-to-date [26][28] Question: Why did you flag the risk of retailers shifting store brands to other suppliers? - Management indicated that in a challenging economic climate, retailers may seek to drive value for consumers by shifting to private label business, but expects to win more than lose as a U.S.-centric manufacturer [29] Question: Can you discuss the impact of operational changes on long-term growth? - Management highlighted the addition of key executives aimed at driving growth through innovation and revenue growth management tools, with a focus on optimizing promotional spending [33][60] Question: What is the outlook for the tableware business and foam products? - Management stated that 80% of the decline in tableware was due to foam headwinds, but they are managing profitability effectively despite volume declines [39] Question: How is the Hefty Waste and Storage segment performing in the current environment? - Management noted that innovation and being a performance brand are driving success in the Hefty Waste and Storage segment, with significant volume growth [58]

Q3 2025 Financial Performance - Net Revenues reached $931 million[16] - Adjusted EBITDA was $168 million[16] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 18%[16] Segment Performance (Q3 2025) - Reynolds Cooking & Baking: Net Revenues of $308 million, Adjusted EBITDA of $53 million, with a 17% margin[16] - Hefty Waste & Storage: Net Revenues of $266 million, Adjusted EBITDA of $74 million, with a 28% margin[16] - Hefty Tableware: Net Revenues of $200 million, Adjusted EBITDA of $29 million, with a 15% margin[16] - Presto Products: Net Revenues of $163 million, Adjusted EBITDA of $35 million, with a 21% margin[16] Year-to-Date (YTD) 2025 Financials - Net Revenues totaled $2,687 million[18] - Adjusted EBITDA amounted to $447 million[18] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 17%[18] Q4 2025 Outlook - Net Revenues are expected to decrease by 1% to 5%[21] - Net Income is projected to be between $110 million and $118 million[21] - Adjusted EBITDA is forecasted to be between $208 million and $218 million[21] Full Year 2025 Outlook - Net Revenues are expected to be flat to down 1%[22] - Net Income is projected to be between $294 million and $302 million[22] - Adjusted EBITDA is forecasted to be between $655 million and $665 million[22]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on consistent organic volume growth and margin expansion as primary business aspirations [3][4] - The outlook for revenue growth is maintained at low single digits, with a shift from volume to pricing recovery due to cost headwinds [14][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company operates through four segments: Reynolds Cooking and Baking, Hefty Waste and Storage, Hefty Tableware, and Presto products, with long-term growth expectations in low single digits [10][11] - The foam category is experiencing double-digit declines, impacting overall category growth, while other categories are expected to remain flat [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. consumer is under pressure due to declining consumer confidence and high levels of debt, affecting spending behavior [34] - There is a trend towards larger pack sizes and lower opening price points across most categories [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes innovation and marketing to drive category growth, focusing on evolving consumer needs and sustainability [15][54] - The dual strategy of being both a branded and private label producer allows the company to serve different consumer segments and manage categories effectively [30][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the current operating environment's challenges, including commodity volatility and tariffs, but expresses confidence in the team's ability to adapt [7][42] - The company is committed to investing in high-return opportunities and improving earnings stability through automation and other initiatives [63][64] Other Important Information - The company has made significant progress in sustainability, offering alternatives in all major categories by 2025 [53] - The company has a strong balance sheet and cash flow, enabling future investments in growth initiatives [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Overview of categories and long-term growth expectations - The company operates in four segments with long-term growth expected in low single digits, driven by household formation and innovation [10][11] Question: Current consumer environment and category performance - The consumer is under pressure, with a stable share between branded and private label products, and a shift towards larger pack sizes [34][35] Question: Input costs and pricing power - Aluminum prices have increased, prompting the company to implement price increases, demonstrating pricing power and brand strength [36] Question: Benefits of being both a branded and private label producer - The dual strategy allows for consumer segmentation and supply chain synergies, contributing to overall profitability [30][31] Question: Capital allocation and M&A strategy - The company is focused on organic growth and has made progress in extending its brand into adjacent areas, with no direct M&A activity since the last investor meeting [55][56]