Speculation is rife that Amcor could make a takeover bid for rival US-based plastics packaging converter Bemis, which would make it the fourth biggest global packaging concern.
Amcor has a current market value of $18 billion, and Bemis $5.3 billion. It's estimated a combined company would generate sales of US$13.9 billion.
Discussions are rumoured to be at an early stage. Amcor has acknowledged the speculation but not confirmed it, instead has made a generic statement that leaves the door open: “Amcor is continually reviewing opportunities to improve shareholder value and, as part of that process, regularly assesses a range of strategic options.”
Amcor has been on an aggressive acquisition trail in the last three years, including the significant $536 million purchase of South American company Alusa. Other purchases have been made in China, India, Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Colombia and Australia.
The acquisition of Bemis at $5.3 billion, would be its biggest to date.
The deal would be in line with Amcor's strategic focus on plastics.
