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Commercial Due Diligence Paper Packaging

Commercial Due Diligence for Paper Packaging Investment

Background: Evaluating the Profitability and Strategic Value of Alternative Paper Grades

Our client, a global leader in the paper packaging industry, identified an opportunity to invest in a different paper grade, driven by evolving market forces and increased demand. They sought to determine whether producing this alternative grade would deliver high margins and long-term shareholder value, or if sourcing existing market alternatives would be more advantageous. The central question was:

“Should we invest in producing an alternative paper grade, or focus on sourcing existing alternatives to maximise profitability and shareholder returns?”

Commercial Due Diligence Paper Packaging

Service: Investment Decision Support
Sector: Paper & Packaging

Approach: Rigorous Commercial Due Diligence and Financial Modelling

To answer this question, we conducted a comprehensive commercial due diligence process, including:

  • Primary Research: Interviews with market experts and collaboration with technical engineering partners to understand production feasibility and market appetite.
  • Market and Profitability Analysis: Detailed examination of historic profitability, input price trends, and the key drivers behind recent market peaks.
  • Future Market Trends: Assessment of demand forecasts, evolving customer requirements, and competitive dynamics within the paper packaging sector.
  • Investment Modelling: In-depth financial modelling, including calculation of Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) for each shortlisted investment option, and comparison of internal and external investment opportunities.

Outcome: Evidence-Based Recommendations for Strategic Investment Decisions

Our analysis revealed that, due to higher capital expenditure requirements, investing in the alternative paper grade did not offer a significant long-term advantage over existing grades. We recommended against expanding production capacity for the alternative grade and advised the client to focus on sourcing alternative papers from the market to optimise commercial returns.

This enabled the client to make informed, evidence-based decisions on future investments, ensuring optimal shareholder value and strategic alignment with market trends.

Why Choose Us for Commercial Due Diligence in Paper & Packaging?

Our expertise in the paper and packaging sector, combined with robust commercial diligence and financial modelling capabilities, ensures clients receive actionable insights for high-stakes investment decisions. Read White Space’s experience on capital allocation optimisation here.

“White Space Strategy handle lots of data, find insights and present me with a simple set of conclusions. They take on very difficult problems, and solve them with a minimum of fuss and bull”

Get in touch with Sophie to see how White Space Strategy can help support you with investment decisions within Paper & Packaging




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